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Broncos Predicted to Replace $39 Million DT With Game-Wrecking Lineman

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 3:00 PM ET

The Denver Broncos went into the 2025 NFL Draft with the idea that the defensive line would be a need in the future. While there were some additions down the board, a true game-changer along the defensive line is still needed.

Even with D.J. Jones locked up for $39 million through the 2028 season, Denver could consider making a change in the future if they looks to shed money to retain Nik Bonito or other defensive talent.

Pro Football Network named one potential player that could fit as the team's replacement: Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods. "Peter Woods falling this far (pick 20) would be surprising," Pro Football Network wrote, "But in these circumstances, the Denver Broncos would not be complaining."

Woods is among the best defensive tackle prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class, and with the Broncos likely in the market for an interior defensive lineman, Woods would be a great addition.

Tony Adame of Heavy.com predicted the Broncos, by adding Woods, could move on from Jones. His main argument is how the money in Denver works out with the looming contract extensions.

"Edge rusher Nik Bonitto and defensive end Zach Allen both have massive contract extensions on the horizon," Adame wrote. "And both are coming off NFL All-Pro seasons in 2024."

Adding Woods would allow the Broncos to move on from Jones, saving a decent chunk of money, and opening the door to keeping Allen and Bonitto. While this predicted move is a year early, it signifies what the Broncos could be looking at ahead of the 2025 NFL and NCAA seasons.

Landing Woods in the draft would make such a decision a lot easier. While Jones is good, his cap hit in 2026 is $14.6 million, and the team could decide to move off him in favor of the much cheaper rookie deal Woods would be on.

It's a ways away, and the Broncos might need to pivot elsewhere come the 2026 NFL Draft, but it's a move worth monitoring. The Broncos need to save some money, and Jones is a fairly easy contract to get off of after 2025.

This prediction from Adame and the potential landing of Woods in the middle of the first round in the 2026 NFL Draft would be a perfect storm of moves for Denver.

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

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