Denver Broncos mock offseason: 2020 free agency frenzy

Free agency: Defensive line

Although it’s possible the Broncos would only make one ‘bigger’ signing on the defensive line in free agency, I think they will make two impactful moves here before turning to the 2020 NFL Draft for depth.

Re-sign Derek Wolfe (4 years, $40 million)

Essentially, I think the Broncos will re-sign Derek Wolfe for the same contract that Malik Jackson signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, only structured a little differently.

I’m no cap-ologist, but if the Broncos were to guarantee Wolfe somewhere between $18-20 million, this could end up being a two year deal with a wait-and-see approach based on Wolfe’s health.

This may feel like a super high price to pay for a guy who has struggled with injuries but Wolfe has also played and played well through a lot, and he was outstanding in Vic Fangio’s defense last season.

Sign D.J. Reader (4 years, $48 million)

Along with re-upping restricted free agent Mike Purcell for another year, this would give the Broncos a really strong top four players on the defensive line with Wolfe, Dre’Mont Jones, and the centerpiece — Reader.

Reader’s explosiveness off the snap and versatility are key traits for him translating to Vic Fangio’s defense. His ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage is something the Broncos desperately need and at $12 million per season, he would undoubtedly be expected to be an impact playmaker up front.