Broncos signing LB Cody Barton

Barton was a third-round pick for the Seahawks in 2019. He didn’t get many chances to contribute over the course of his rookie deal, starting only five games in his first three seasons. During a contract year in Seattle, though, Barton exploded onto the scene. In eleven starts, Barton reached 136 total tackles while tallying two sacks and two interceptions, as well.

Barton’s efforts earned him a one-year, $3.5M contract with the Commanders. In Washington, he would start 13 games, once again eclipsing the 100-tackle mark with 121 total. While he doesn’t grade out phenomenally, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), he shows good marks in coverage and remains a reliable starter. Mike Klis of 9NEWS tells us that Barton’s contract with the Broncos will also be for one year and $3.5M.

A Barton re-signing became unnecessary in Washington after the team signed Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu to start alongside Jamin Davis on the Commanders defense. In Denver, Barton will likely be stepping into the shoes of Josey Jewell, who agreed to a deal with the Panthers on Tuesday. Barton completes the linebacker shuffle as Jewell heads to Carolina, Luvu heads to Washington, and Barton goes to Denver. Barton should step in alongside Alex Singleton, who finished 2023 third in the NFL with 177 total tackles, solidifying the middle of the Broncos defense.