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Former USC All-American becomes one of the highest paid safeties in the NFL despite injury-plagued 2024 season

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ryan Roberts | Last updated Mar 12, 2025 11:43 PM ET

Free agency is always a great time of the year. For a small window, every franchise has hope and has a chance to strengthen their teams with nothing but positivity. The excitement surrounds new additions, and what the players can provide. That is true of the Denver Broncos, who have made several exciting signings so far.

There isn't a signing more interesting than former San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga, who signed a three-year, $45 million contract this week. That is a healthy price tag for Hufanga, who is coming off of an injury. It is a risk the Broncos are willing to take.

Broncos, S Talanoa Hufanga agree to a 3-year deal worth up to $45M. (via @rapsheet, @tompelissero) pic.twitter.com/iHGjwreagr
— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2025

With that $15 million price tag per year, Hufanga is now tied for ninth amongst safeties around the NFL. He is tied with Cam Bynum (Indianapolis Colts), just behind Jevon Holland (New York Giants) and Jessie Bates III (Atlanta Falcons).

Hufanga was originally drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He enjoyed a very strong beginning of his career in San Francisco, specifically during his second season with the team. During that campaign, Hufana collected 97 total tackles, four interceptions, nine pass breakups, and five tackles for loss. He was rewarded with a Pro Bowl and All-Pro honor because of it.

During the last two seasons, Hufanga has dealt with a series of injuries and has missed a total of 17 games. When heavily, he has been tremendous. Hufanga ended his San Francisco career with 219 total tackles, seven interceptions, nine tackles for loss, and 14 pass breakups.

Once a five-star recruit, Hufanga was a massive recruiting win for the USC Trojans once upon a time. During his three years with the program, Hufana collected 2023 total tackles, four interceptions, eight pass breakups, 18 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. The Oregon native will stick out West, and hope to continue the upward trajectory of the Broncos franchise.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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