Broncos May Cut Veteran Safety Brandon Jones

0:00On March 3rd, Pro Football Focus predicts the Denver Broncos could release better and safety, Brandon Jones, during the 2026 offseason. Analysts point to tough cap decisions, especially if the team wants to extend quarterback Bonix soon. Jones earned a decent grade last season, but the secondary has enough depth to move on. Jones signed a three-year deal worth $20 million back in 2024. He started plenty of games for Denver, racking up tackles, pass breakups, picks and fumble recoveries. His 2025 season cut short by a torn pectoral muscle, fixed with surgery in January. Coach Sean Payton has praised Jones for his smarts and work ethic, especially paired with Talinoa Huffanga in one of the league's top safety tandems. Still, cutting him before June 1st would free up about 7 million in cap space, though it leaves a small dead cap hit. Losing Jones would open a big gap in the defense that backups like PJ Locke might not fill, since Locke hits free agency too.

1:02The team could turn to special teams star Devon Key, or look elsewhere on the roster. Meanwhile, ESPN draft expert Mel Kuiper Jr. mocked the safety to Denver at pick 30 in his first 2026 projection, signaling long-term, plans to keep the secondary strong as free agency ramps up.