Denver Broncos free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

2. Leonard Williams

The Broncos could easily decide they want to spend their free agency cash on an upgrade at defensive end rather than nose tackle. If they do, Williams looks to be a player who can fit perfectly into Fangio’s defensive scheme.

His ability to set the edge against the run makes him an ideal fit in a 3-4 base defense. That kind of setup also helps mitigate Williams’ weakness as a pass-rusher. The Broncos expect their ends to occupy blocks rather than produce sacks on their own.

Specifically, Williams’ arrival would permit Denver to move on from DeMarcus Walker without a second through. The 2017 second round pick was atrocious in 2020. Williams would have an easy time providing the team with significantly more production.

Williams is going to draw strong interest in free agency, but his lack of sack history might suppress his market to the point that Denver can sign him to a reasonable multi-year deal. His draft status might push his price tag too high for the Broncos’ liking, but landing him for less than $16 million per season would be a wise move for the team’s front office.