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Broncos LB Signs Exclusive Rights Free Agent Tender

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jordan Woodson | Last updated Apr 5, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Denver Broncos had one of the best defenses in the NFL last season, ranking No. 7 in total defense, No. 3 in scoring defense, No. 3 in rushing defense, and No. 19 in passing defense. They also ranked No. 3 in red zone defense and No. 11 in third-down defense.

The Broncos bolstered their defense this offseason by signing linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga to three-year contracts. They've added even more star power to a defense featuring Patrick Surtain II, Nik Bonitto, Zach Allen, DJ Jones, Riley Moss, Brandon Jones, Jonathon Cooper, and John Franklin-Myers.

Now, one of their depth options is officially back for one more season. According to the NFL's transactions wire , linebacker Dondrea Tillman re-signed with the Broncos on Friday.

Broncos LB Dondrea Tillman signed his exclusive rights free agent tenderhttps://t.co/eeblhZIi1c pic.twitter.com/VdDOGnMxm3
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) April 4, 2025

Denver tendered the undrafted free agent in early March, but after receiving no offers in free agency, Tillman officially signed his one-year, $960,000 contract on Friday.

Tillman took an unconventional route to the NFL, taking two years off after going undrafted out of Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He then played one season with the Conquerors in The Spring League in 2021, followed by two seasons in the USFL and one in the UFL before finally earning his opportunity in the NFL.

Last season, Tillman appeared in 12 games, recording 23 tackles (13 solo), five sacks, and five run stuffs. He's a bit of a tweener for the position but has flashed in his opportunities. He'll provide depth at outside linebacker behind projected starters Bonitto and Cooper.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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