The Denver Broncos are hopeful for Pro Bowler Nik Bonitto to agree to an extension this upcoming offseason. According to reports, the linebacker is eligible for a contract after spending the past three seasons with the team. Originally selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Oklahoma product came into the league where after the Von Miller trade, the Broncos used the extra draft pick to select Bonitto. After starting the 2023 campaign as a backup, he spent some time behind journeyman Randy Gregory before recording more than two sacks and one fumble earning him a starting role.
However, Bonitto was far from overachieving new heights by becoming the first Broncos player to have digit sacks since Miller and Bradley Chubb in 2018. He finished the 2024 campaign, recording 13.5 sacks and making the second-team All-Pro. The Broncos are no strangers to his capabilities that’s been a critical part of this defense, but with his talents, it might become hard to come to a deal since the organization tends to wait until the last minute to extend a player. This past offseason was proof of that after finally reaching a deal with wide receiver Courtland Sutton on a new contract.
It shouldn’t be surprising if Bonitto uses the last campaign as leverage to sit out this upcoming offseason until he receives a new deal. He could request a trade if Denver delivers him a contract that isn’t up to his standard and teams like the Ravens, Chargers could snag him.
Broncos “Hopeful” for Nik Bonitto Extension – Saints, Chargers Could Steal Him in Possible Trade
Rebuilding Now or Never
Unlike most NFL Teams, the New Orleans Saints’ financial situation is working against them off-season so the chances of them doing anything are low. General Manager Mickey Loomis must swallow his pride and get creative to build a winning roster that gets them back in the postseason. Despite that, quarterback Derek Carr will return even though he said he won’t be taking a pay cut to help the Saints who are in cap hell. However, the organization is leaving it up to the next head coach to decide on the quarterback’s future.
With several veteran free agents with uncertain futures like Cameron Jordan, the Saints will have to embrace finding a new edge rusher. Since the team will likely lose Chase Young this free agency as well, they must do something to bring the defense back to life. Perhaps, the Saints could make a Bonitto trade happen if the team figures out what to do about his contract after the 2025 season. They don’t necessarily need to extend him if they only desire to bring him for one year until he hits the market in 2026.
Jim Harbaugh’s Blueprint
Nobody in the league has a love for winning in the trenches like head coach Jim Harbaugh. Meanwhile, the landscape of the pass-rushing unit looks bleak with Khalil Mack hitting the market this offseason with retirement on his mind, it leaves the team needing a replacement. Edge Defender Joey Bosa will become a free agent as well with his football future up in the air. The Chargers may focus on getting new weapons for Justin Herbert’s offense but the team must find a way to maintain the capability to win ball games on defense.
Perhaps, Bonitto is young and has several years in the tank, he has a large upside that Harbaugh might be looking for. If the Broncos don’t agree on a new deal, Bonitto should request a trade and head to Los Angeles.
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