When it comes to the 2025 offseason, the Denver Broncos have a lot on their plate. Along with 13 unrestricted free agents, the team will also need to make decisions about five exclusive rights free agents (ERFAs) and one restricted free agent (RFA). These designations can significantly impact how the Broncos’ roster shapes up for the season ahead, so let’s break it all down.
Understanding ERFAs: What’s the Deal?
Exclusive rights free agents are in a unique position—and not necessarily a favorable one for the players. These are athletes who have fewer than three accrued seasons under their belts and are at the end of their contracts. Because of this limited experience, they’re essentially tied to their current teams.
Here’s how it works: Teams can offer ERFAs one-year contracts at the league minimum. If a player receives this tender, they’re not allowed to negotiate with other teams. The choice is simple: either sign the tender or sit out. On the flip side, if the team decides not to offer the tender, the ERFA immediately becomes an unrestricted free agent, free to explore other opportunities. For the Broncos, these decisions could mean the difference between continuity and rebuilding depth in certain positions.
Broncos’ ERFA Players in 2025
The list of ERFAs for Denver in 2025 includes:
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TE Lucas Krull
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DB Devon Key
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OLB Dondrea Tillman
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DL Jordan Jackson
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CB Ja'Quan McMillian
These players, while not yet household names, provide depth and potential for growth. Retaining them on cost-effective contracts can be a smart move for the team.
The Lowdown on Restricted Free Agents
Restricted free agents, or RFAs, have a little more leverage. These are players with three accrued seasons whose contracts are expiring. Teams have the option to place a tender on these players, essentially giving them the right to match any outside offers or receive draft compensation if the player signs elsewhere.
The NFL offers three levels of tenders for RFAs:
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First-round tender: Valued at $7,279,000, this level requires a team to fork over a first-round draft pick if they sign the player.
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Second-round tender: Costs $5,217,000 and comes with the requirement of a second-round pick as compensation.
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Right of first refusal tender: The most affordable option at $3,185,000, this gives the player’s original team the chance to match any external offers but doesn’t guarantee draft compensation.
How Does This Impact the Broncos?
For Denver, the lone RFA in 2025 is LS Mitchell Fraboni, a key contributor to the team’s special teams unit. The decision here will be crucial. If the Broncos decide to use a tender, it will likely depend on Fraboni’s perceived value to the team versus his market interest elsewhere. Special teams players often fly under the radar, but they can make or break critical moments in games.
Strategic Implications for the Broncos
The choice to tender RFAs or retain ERFAs isn’t just about locking in players; it’s about smart roster management. For example, placing a first-round tender on an RFA might deter other teams from making offers, effectively securing the player without significant cap implications. On the other hand, declining to tender an RFA or failing to sign an ERFA can leave gaps that must be addressed through free agency or the draft.
Here’s where things get exciting: If another team covets an RFA and offers a massive contract, Denver could end up with extra draft capital. Imagine the Broncos snagging a first-round pick in exchange for a player they couldn’t afford to keep anyway. That’s a scenario that can turn a tough decision into a win-win situation.
Key Dates to Watch
The NFL’s 2025 negotiating period will run from March 10 to March 12, leading up to the official start of free agency on March 12. During these critical days, teams will finalize their plans for tenders and free-agent offers. Fans can expect a whirlwind of activity as teams position themselves for success.
Why This Matters
For Broncos fans, this offseason presents an opportunity to see how the front office handles tough decisions. Will the team prioritize retaining young talent through ERFA tenders? Will they strategically use RFA tenders to secure or gain value? These moves will offer insight into the Broncos’ long-term vision.
What’s Next?
As March approaches, all eyes will be on how the Broncos navigate these free-agent waters. The decisions made now could set the tone for the 2025 season and beyond. Whether it’s locking in promising players like Ja'Quan McMillian or evaluating the market value of a contributor like Mitchell Fraboni, the stakes are high. Buckle up, Broncos Country—the offseason is just getting started!
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