Can’t re-sign them all!
According to multiple reports, including NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, former Denver Broncos safety P.J. Locke is signing a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys
Locke has been with the Broncos since 2019 and went from being a key special teamer to a starter and then to being a key reserve for Vance Joseph’s top-ranked defense. He started in 2024 and played well, but after the Broncos signed Talanoa Hufanga, Locke reverted to being the Broncos’ third safety. However, after safety Brandon Jones went down with a season-ending pectoral injury, Locke stepped in as the starter and once again played well. His standout play was an impressive interception of Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen during the Broncos’ thrilling overtime victory over the Bills in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
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It is likely that the Broncos wanted Locke back; however, with Hufanga and Jones as the starters, Locke likely wanted to land somewhere where he had an opportunity to start. The Dallas Cowboys are remaking their defense and have hired former Denver Broncos secondary coach Christian Parker to be their defensive coordinator. Locke is familiar with Parker, so it made sense for the two sides to be interested in each other.
Losing Locke is a hit to the Broncos safety depth, but opens up an opportunity for players like JL Skinner and All-Pro special teamer Devon Key to take on a larger role on the defensive side of the ball. I also would not rule out the Broncos signing a veteran safety to replace Locke and/or the team drafting a safety earlier than anticipated during the 2026 NFL Draft. Brandon Jones is entering the final year of his deal, Hufanga has some injury concerns, and losing Locke leaves you without a proven third safety on the roster. So, we could see the Broncos address the safety position during the draft.
The Broncos new defensive backs coach, Doug Belk, was with USC as their defensive backs coach last season, so I would assume they will have some interest in the USC safeties in the draft.
