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GOOD NEWS: Two Broncos Stars Make The Athletic’s Top-30 Free Agents of 2026
The Denver Broncos have received a promising dose of national recognition heading into what could be a pivotal 2025 NFL season. Two of their top players have been named to The Athletic’s Top-30 NFL Free Agents of 2026 list, a prestigious ranking that identifies the most sought-after talents expected to hit the open market next offseason. The inclusion of these Broncos stars not only underscores their individual excellence but also places Denver in the spotlight as a team rich with talent and on the rise.
The Athletic’s Recognition: A Big Deal
Each year, The Athletic compiles a list of the top free agents set to be available the following offseason. The list is curated by a panel of writers, scouts, and analysts who evaluate player performance, impact, positional value, and future outlook. To have not just one, but two players featured is a significant sign of both individual star power and organizational progress.
While free agency is always a mix of uncertainty and opportunity, the list serves as a benchmark for how players are viewed league-wide. For the Broncos, this news is a double-edged sword—an honor and a challenge. It confirms that Denver has elite talent, but also signals looming decisions on contracts, extensions, and long-term roster construction.
Who Made the List?
According to The Athletic, the two Broncos players named in the 2026 free agency spotlight are cornerback Patrick Surtain II and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy.
Let’s take a closer look at both and why they are considered among the league’s elite heading into a contract year.
Patrick Surtain II: A Franchise Cornerstone
Surtain’s inclusion on the list is hardly a surprise. The 2021 first-round pick out of Alabama has rapidly developed into one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL. Known for his elite coverage skills, smooth footwork, and high football IQ, Surtain has been the backbone of Denver’s secondary since his rookie season.
Through his first four seasons, Surtain has amassed multiple Pro Bowl appearances and earned All-Pro recognition. His ability to shadow top receivers, limit yards after catch, and impact the game without committing penalties makes him a rare asset. At only 25 years old heading into 2026, he will be in the prime of his career—making him one of the hottest potential commodities if Denver fails to reach an extension in time.
General Manager George Paton and the Broncos front office are reportedly working to secure Surtain with a long-term deal before the 2026 free agency frenzy even begins. But if he hits the open market, he would easily become one of the highest-paid defensive backs in league history.
Jerry Jeudy: A Playmaker Poised for a Breakout
Jeudy’s appearance on the list may raise more eyebrows—only because of the rollercoaster nature of his tenure with the Broncos. Drafted 15th overall in 2020, Jeudy has shown flashes of elite route-running and game-breaking ability but has also dealt with inconsistency and injuries. However, his 2024 and early 2025 performances have begun to turn the narrative.
Jeudy finished the 2024 season with career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, emerging as the clear WR1 in Denver’s offense. His chemistry with quarterback Bo Nix—who appears to be the franchise’s quarterback of the future—has blossomed, and his ability to create separation has finally translated to steady production on Sundays.
If Jeudy continues this upward trend in 2025, he could command a lucrative contract next offseason. His presence on The Athletic’s Top-30 list signals that the league is taking notice—and that Denver may have to make a tough decision about keeping him long-term.
What This Means for the Broncos
The recognition of both Surtain and Jeudy highlights a crucial turning point for the Broncos. After years of instability and underwhelming seasons, there are signs that the franchise is building a competitive core. New head coach Sean Payton is instilling discipline and direction, and with young talent developing, Denver may be turning the corner.
However, success comes with consequences in a salary-cap league. The front office must now navigate how to retain its best players without compromising future flexibility. Locking in Surtain seems to be a no-brainer, but Jeudy’s case may be more complex, especially with other young receivers developing behind him and the inevitable market inflation for wideouts.
The situation also places a spotlight on Denver’s 2025 campaign. If the Broncos are in playoff contention, both Surtain and Jeudy could be seen as vital pieces of a winning puzzle. But if the season falters, trade rumors or tough financial decisions could resurface.
Fans’ Perspective: Hope and Hype
For Broncos Country, the news is a mix of pride and anticipation. Seeing two homegrown talents earn national praise is a testament to the franchise’s recent draft success and player development. It also offers hope that the Broncos can return to prominence with these stars leading the way.
Still, fans are aware of the stakes. Letting either player walk in free agency could be a devastating blow. That’s why the coming months—and contract negotiations—will be crucial. Denver has the leverage of franchise tags, but ideally, both Surtain and Jeudy would be extended before the situation reaches that point.
Conclusion: A Bright, Competitive Future
The inclusion of Patrick Surtain II and Jerry Jeudy in The Athletic’s Top-30 Free Agents of 2026 is undeniably good news for the Denver Broncos. It validates the team’s rebuilding efforts and places two of its biggest stars on a national pedestal. While it also introduces some roster-management challenges, it’s a sign that Denver is no longer flying under the radar.
If the Broncos can capitalize on this momentum and secure their top talents for the long term, they could be looking at a return to playoff contention—and maybe more—in the near future.
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