The post Broncos make $18M contract decision with key veteran LB in free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
The Denver Broncos have some work to do this offseason to address some key positions on both sides of the ball.
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While running back and tight end are big needs on offense, on defense the linebacker space needs some help. Dre Greenlaw is still under contract, but the Broncos are losing two key veterans to free agency.
At least, that’s how it should be. Instead, the Broncos will hit the free agent market by signing veteran linebacker Justin Strnad to an $18 million contract extension for the next three seasons, according to James Palmer of The Athletic.
Broncos re-sign Justin Strnad to $18M
“The Broncos are bringing back a key member of their defense. LB Justin Strnad is returning to Denver on a 3-year contract worth $18 million, with $10 million guaranteed,” Palmer reported. “$5.1 million guaranteed at signing, per source. A smart player with options elsewhere.”
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While free agency has yet to officially begin, 29-year-old veteran guard Sternard will likely find some landing spot this offseason if he hits the open market.
But instead of hitting free agency and being pursued by other teams, Sternard and the Broncos agreed to a three-year, $18 million deal.
The signing could mean Alex Singleton will leave in free agency. With a great linebacker draft class, the Broncos should consider using draft picks on rookie linebackers to pair with Strnad and Greenlaw instead of spending more on Singleton.
more: John Franklin Miles’ $20M contract projection could mean end of era in Denver
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Sternard appeared in 83 games during his five-year career with the Broncos, including 21 starts. Last season, he made eight starts, threw one interception, defended three passes, had 4.5 sacks and eight quarterback hits, all of which were career highs.
He also had 58 tackles and five tackles for loss, making it an all-around strong year for the 29-year-old linebacker.
Wild Strnad may not play 60 percent of the snaps on defense, but he’s good enough for the Broncos to spend $6 million a year on him.
This is a good extension for the Broncos, as Strnad returns on a reasonable three-year deal, solving a problem the Broncos had to address this offseason.
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Now, Sean Payton and George Payton can focus on running back and tight end space as they look to find more playmakers for Bo Nix and company in desperate need of explosive weapons.
