10 NFL stars who must be extended this preseason

By Ian Wharton | Aug 10, 2018

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 03: Defensive end Aaron Donald #99 of the Los Angeles Rams reacts after a tackle against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 3, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rams defeated the Cardinals 32-16. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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JACKSONVILLE, FL – DECEMBER 04: Denver Broncos cornerback Bradley Roby (29) returns an interception for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars December 4, 2016 at EverBank Field. (Photo By John Leyba/The Denver Post via Getty Images) /

Bradley Roby, CB, Denver Broncos

One of the most underrated NFL cornerbacks is Bradley Roby. The Denver Broncos fifth-year corner finished fourth in my Corner Handbook rankings due to his ability to be a sticky cover option in man assignments. And at just 26 years old and with no significant injury history, the Broncos should look to extend early.

Roby didn’t receive many headlines last year because of teammates Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr., but he quietly matched stellar film with elite production allowed. He gave up only 36 percent completion rate, 202 yards, 15 yards after the catch, and two touchdowns on 18 receptions in man coverage.

Much like Desmond Trufant in that he’s not a major threat to force turnovers but is excellent at deterring targets, Roby’s about to see more of the spotlight. A breakout or even fluky season with an increased number of interceptions could be incredibly costly, just look at how Kyle Fuller went from being on the roster bubble to earning $14 million-a-year in one (terrific) season.

Extending him now could help keep his price in the $12 million-a-year category if Roby’s agent is willing to take a sure-thing deal. Otherwise, there’s no question he should surpass Malcom Butler’s ridiculous $12.25 million deal in free agency, and possibly vault up to Fuller’s deal.

Proposed contract extension: Five years, $60 million, $24 million guaranteed.