Denver Broncos 2019 offseason: 5 free agent targets
By Conor Myles
The Denver Broncos are starting off the Vic Fangio era in 2019. Here are five free agents that will help the first-year head coach enjoy instant success.
5. Mike Pennel, NT
The Broncos need an upgrade at the nose tackle position and Mike Pennel offers that at a bargain rate. The New York Jets recently declined Pennel’s team option in 2019 making him an unrestricted free agent. The fit with the 334-pound defensive lineman and Vic Fangio’s defense couldn’t be any more perfect.
The Broncos struggled to stop the run in 2018 after allowing the 21st most rushing yards in the league. Inserting Pennel at nose tackle helps fix some of those issues. The 27-year-old had a total of 20 run stops, which was a career-high while also making the first contact on 23 running plays, which tied a career-high.
Pennel can reach his full potential under Fangio and his rich history with developing defensive lineman in his 3-4 scheme. The nose tackle’s run-stuffing ability is a big need in Denver, and the cost to acquire Pennel’s services should fit into their $21 million in cap space while allowing them to allocate resources on other needs.