Denver Broncos: 2021 free agents with connections to watch for

Denver Broncos 2021 free agent targets with connections

4. Mike Hilton, DB (Steelers)

The Denver Broncos will undoubtedly be looking to upgrade the defensive backfield in the 2021 offseason.

One area of the team that needs substantial attention is the cornerback position, where the Broncos’ depth was severely tested in 2020 thanks to injuries to AJ Bouye and Bryce Callahan as well as a suspension late in the season for Bouye.

The Broncos had other injuries at corner and at times you had to reference the team roster guide to know who was even out there playing.

With one year remaining on his contract, the team will give one more shot to veteran Bryce Callahan, who was easily the best corner on the team when he was able to play. They will also be expecting a jump in year two from Michael Ojemudia, who showed promising signs in an inconsistent rookie season.

Because of those two players, I think in free agency, the Broncos could look to strike gold at the nickel position, which is of critical importance in Vic Fangio’s defense.

There might not be a better option in this free agent class than Mike Hilton of the Steelers. Although the connection is somewhat obscure, who knows how well Mike Munchak knows Hilton from his days in Pittsburgh?

Hilton is a smart, aggressive, instinctive player at the nickel defensive back position who would be able to pick up on the intricacies of Vic Fangio’s defense right away. The Broncos undoubtedly need to add more talent at cornerback through the 2021 NFL Draft, but they could go for a free agent like Hilton to take their nickel spot and really make that a position of strength with Essang Bassey in reserve.