The Denver Broncos are approaching a major contract extension for defensive lineman Zach Allen as they look to strengthen their defense while benefiting from Bo Nix rookie contract flexibility. This move signals the team’s intent to secure key defensive talent while managing their salary cap efficiently for the upcoming <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL season.
Zach Allen’s Rising Importance to the Broncos
During training camp, the Broncos have prioritized contract talks with several crucial players, including wide receiver Courtland Sutton, who recently signed a four-year, $92 million deal. Now the focus has shifted to Zach Allen, whose rising performance has cemented him as one of the league’s most impactful interior defenders. A source confirmed that the Broncos are actively progressing in negotiations and
“closing in on an extension with Zach Allen.”
Expectations for a High-Value Contract
Allen is reportedly targeting a significant pay increase, with talks centering on a deal worth over $25 million per year. His previous contract from 2023 averaged $15.25 million annually, so this new figure reflects a steep rise aligned with his enhanced on-field contributions. In the 2023 season, Allen posted 60 tackles and five sacks as a consistent starter. He improved further this season, recording a career-high 8.5 sacks and 61 tackles while playing heavy snaps. Although he missed out on a Pro Bowl nod, being named a second-team All-Pro highlights his growing recognition.
Market Comparisons and Age Factor in Contract Talks
At age 27, Allen’s prime years factor into his valuation, with current rankings placing him as the 18th-highest-paid defensive interior player in the NFL. For context, Kansas City’s Chris Jones commands the top spot with a $31.7 million annual salary, and the New England Patriots recently set a high benchmark when they signed Milton Williams to a four-year, $104 million contract averaging $26 million per year. Allen’s camp likely views this as a comparable standard for negotiations.
Financial Flexibility Thanks to Bo Nix’s Rookie Contract
The Broncos are in a favorable salary cap position partially due to quarterback Bo Nix’s cost-effective rookie contract, which provides room for strategic investments in essential players like Allen. This flexibility allows Denver to pursue Allen’s extension without sacrificing other roster priorities. The team’s financial maneuvering is also aided by the absence of Russell Wilson’s expensive contract, which previously limited their capacity to offer competitive deals.
Implications for Broncos’ Defensive Outlook and Future Cap Space
Securing Allen on a long-term deal could be pivotal for the Broncos’ defensive identity moving forward. Locking down a top-tier interior defender aligns with their goal to fortify the defense and sustain competitiveness in a demanding league. Moreover, completing this extension now could free up additional salary cap space in future seasons, enabling further roster enhancements as Denver aims for success.
As the Broncos prepare for the new season, balancing player retention with cap management remains a top priority. The proposed Zach Allen extension, supported by the financial agility granted by Bo Nix’s rookie contract flexibility, is a vital step toward bolstering the team’s defensive strength and overall potential in the NFL.