Broncos tapped as ‘best fit’ by ESPN for free-agent linebacker, running back

It should come as no surprise that the Denver Broncos appear to be a potential destination for linebackers and running backs on the market this offseason. Sean Payton pointed to both position groups as areas of need when he sat down on Media Row at Super Bowl LIX two weeks ago.

In the eyes of Matt Bowen, an ESPN analyst, the Broncos stand as the “best fit” for a pair of players expected to hit unrestricted free agency in March: Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton and Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones.

Bolton and Jones rank No. 23 and 33, respectively, on Bowen’s list of the top 50 potential free agents heading into the new league year.

In four years with the Chiefs, Bolton has been a steady presence at the core of Kansas City’s defense, although last year he allowed a 103.6 passer rating when targeted, the highest rating at his expense since his rookie season.

Jones joined the Vikings last year after spending the first seven years of his career with the Green Bay Packers. He returned to the ranks of 1,000-yard rushers, posting his fourth season reaching that milestone with an 1,138-yard campaign.

But more significant to Jones possibly becoming a Broncos contributor is his work as a pass catcher, which suits the “joker” type of running back Payton specifically seeks.

The only downside on Jones appears to be tread on the tires. He turned 30 in December and has 1,755 total touches in his 8-season career. But that age might make him a cap-friendly option despite his bulbous production; he played 2024 on a 1-year, $7-million deal with the Vikings.