Denver Broncos free agency: Underrated defensive line options

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 29: Defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson #99 of the Seattle Seahawks celebrates sacking quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 (not pictured) of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on December 29, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 17: Dontari Poe #95 of the Carolina Panthers during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Dontari Poe, Carolina Panthers

Dontari Poe’s career arc has gone an interesting direction.

Just a couple of years ago, it felt like Poe was poised to become one of the highest-paid defensive linemen in the NFL and he surprisingly signed just a one-year prove-it deal with the Atlanta Falcons.

After a decent season and 16 games with the Falcons, he signed on with the Carolina Panthers for three years and over $9 million per season.

The Panthers, two years into the deal, decided to move on from Poe and make him a free agent this season.

Although he’s more of a fit as a traditional nose tackle, the possibility of adding Poe and another free agent is fascinating.

What if the Broncos could add Poe and DJ Reader, or Poe and Jordan Phillips?

You get the picture.

The Broncos could look to get the ultra-athletic Poe on a two-year deal worth maybe $12 million and take a shot, hoping he flourishes in the Vic Fangio defense.

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