Mile High Report
Edge rusher is a key position in today’s NFL - especially in the pass-heavy AFC West. So signing Nik Bonitto to a long-term deal sooner rather than later should be a no-brainer.
Pro Football & Sports Network predicted every NFL team’s biggest need post-free agency, and it may be a slight surprise that Denver’s “position of need” came on ... defense.
After all, Denver added ex-49er defensive standouts Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga, while also re-signing run-stuffing tackle D.J. Jones, as the bell to open free agency rang.
And this was for a defense that already had high marks in 2024. In fact, PFSN ranked Denver No. 1 for all of the NFL.
So what’s the need?
Edge rusher, PFSN says.
“You could quibble with their edge-rushing depth,” the network argued, adding that Vance Joseph’s scheme to generate pressure from disguised fronts and blitzes utilized extra rushers more than most teams.”
But it’s not just getting more edge rushers — as good of an idea as that is.
In PFSN’s eyes, it’s that the Broncos should be signing Nik Bonitto’s new contract immediately if not sooner.
Bonitto, who had a breakout season in 2024 and in 2025 will be entering the last year of his rookie deal, tallied 13.5 sacks, two forced fumbles (and one recovery) and one interception for a score. In just three seasons, Bonitto’s career pressure rate of 15% ranks 10th in the NFL.
“It’s worth trying to hammer out an extension, given the booming edge rusher market [next offseason],” PFN stated, adding that although Bonitto won’t touch Miles Garrett’s $40 million per year average, “he could end up in the same zip code” ($28 million per year) as guys like Josh Hines-Allen and Brian Burns.
Spotrac projects that Bonitto could land a four-year, $102.1 million contract, making him the third-highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL.
Although many fans might reasonably argue that the biggest need for Denver would be on offense now, specifically running back, few would argue against shoring up a pass rushing attack.
Broncos GM George Paton says a contract for Bonitto is a priority.
“Nik obviously had a breakout year,” Paton said during the NFL Combine in February, adding that Bonitto “took the next step” in his talent level last season. “He’s a dynamic player, and we want him here a long time.”
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