Denver Broncos: 20 free agent defensive linemen to target

Tier 3 – The possible diamonds in the rough

Because the NFL is such a ‘what have you done for me lately’ type of operation, some of the guys on this list could be coming off of down years, or they simply might just be getting outshined by other star players they play with.

One way or another, some of these guys could be great options for the Broncos at a lower cost than players above them on this list.

Jarran Reed, Seattle Seahawks

An off-field incident got Jarran Reed suspended for six games this past season, but his 2018 production was unreal.

In 2018, Reed had 10.5 sacks, 24 hits, and 31 pressures for the Seahawks. This past season, his production was down by comparison with the suspension but Reed was still productive.

The former second-round pick out of Alabama is going to have to convince teams that his behavior off the field is not going to be an issue, and he might have to do that on an inexpensive one- or two-year deal.

Michael Brockers, Los Angeles Rams

Michael Brockers has not been overly spectacular, but his ability to defend the run and get a decent pass rush from the interior defensive line is a bit underrated thanks to the wild production of his teammate Aaron Donald.

Brockers is going to be just 29 this year, and considering the fact that he’s only missed three games since 2013, he’s the type of guy you can know you’re making a solid investment in in free agency.

He had 63 tackles, three sacks, and nine QB hits last season for the Rams as well as 17 pressures.

He could wind up being a huge steal for a team like Denver.

David Onyemata, New Orleans Saints

Playing opposite Cameron Jordan will certainly keep you in the shadows a bit, but David Onyemata has been a very good player for the last four years in New Orleans.

Strong against the run and as a pass rusher, Onyemata has only missed one game in four years because of a marijuana suspension last year.

He had 11 QB hits and three sacks in 2019.