Broncos: Top 11 takeaways from George Paton’s pre-free agency presser

4. Kareem Jackson’s situation in question?

With a 2021 cap hit of nearly $13 million, Kareem Jackson’s name has understandably come up in regards to possible salary cap casualties.

We took a look at some free agent safeties in 2021 that could be intriguing to the Broncos if they do decide to move on from K-Jack.

According to George Paton, the Broncos have had some “positive conversations” with Jackson’s representatives ahead of their decision of whether or not to pick up his 2021 option.

Jackson being a cap casualty would have nothing to do with his play and everything to do with age and the situation of free agency. The Broncos would be able to get younger in free agency, no question, but would they be able to replace what Jackson brings to the table?

Vic Fangio is undoubtedly hoping for some continuity in his defense and that is why it would make sense for the Broncos to bring Jackson back. On the other hand, this year’s free agency class and draft class look awesome at the position, and the Broncos could free up $10 million in cap space by letting Jackson go.

It’s a tough decision and the ideal situation for the Broncos would again be Jackson adding a year or two to his deal, lowering his 2021 cap hit, and kicking the can of cutting him down the road. He’s still playing well, and the team could focus on drafting his replacement instead of signing him if Jackson was willing to re-structure or re-do his deal.