DENVER — The Denver Broncos front office wasted no time Friday, locking down critical depth and special teams’ ace Devon Key alongside three other exclusive rights free agents (ERFAs). While the move keeps a 2025 All-Pro in the building, the team signaled a shift at tight end by declining to tender Lucas Krull, sending the former “joker” candidate into the unrestricted market.
Defensive Depth and Special Teams Continuity
General Manager Sean Payton and the Broncos’ staff prioritized continuity as the legal tampering window nears. Leading the wave of signatures is safety Devon Key, who blossomed into a First-Team All-Pro special teamer last season. Key, who appeared in all 17 games in 2025, posted 28 tackles and a forced fumble, primarily serving as the hammer on coverage units. Joining him is Dondrea Tillman, the former UFL star who has become a rotational fixture in Denver’s pass rush. Tillman notched 4.0 sacks and 2 interceptions last year, proving that his Birmingham Stallions pedigree translates to Sundays.
Both Key and Tillman accepted second-year service minimum tenders worth $1.075 million. The Broncos also solidified the bottom of the roster by retaining running back Tyler Badie and defensive lineman Jordan Jackson under similar terms. Jackson, an Air Force product, has become a reliable interior presence with 22 appearances over the last two campaigns.
The End of the Krull Experiment
The most telling move of the day involves what didn’t happen. The Broncos opted not to extend a restricted free agent (RFA) tender to tight end Lucas Krull. Had they offered the lowest tender for the right of first refusal, it would have cost $3.52 million—a price tag Denver deemed too high for his production.
Krull was once touted as the potential “joker” in Payton’s offensive scheme, a versatile role historically occupied by players like Jimmy Graham or Taysom Hill. However, Krull’s tenure in Denver likely ends with a stat line of 29 catches for 262 yards and a single touchdown. His departure leaves a significant void in the tight end room, one the Broncos are expected to address via the draft or the upcoming free agency period starting March 11.
“Devon is the heartbeat of our special teams. You don’t just find guys with his discipline and motor. Keeping him and Dondrea was a priority for the culture we’re building heading into 2026.”
— Anonymous Broncos Front Office Source
Draft Implications / What’s Next
By securing four ERFAs at the league minimum, Denver preserves precious cap space for a run at a veteran defensive end or a top-tier wide receiver. However, the decision to let Krull walk confirms that tight end is now a “red alert” need. With Denver holding the 30th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, don’t be surprised if they look for a dynamic pass-catcher to finally fill that elusive joker role.
