The Denver Broncos, ever vigilant about their compensatory draft picks, are poised to enter the NFL draft without any immediate roster additions. With defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers and safety P.J. Locke's departures, the team is keenly aware of the potential impact on their 2027 comp picks. However, there are still some roster needs that demand attention.
One potential solution lies in the form of Shelby Harris, a familiar face who could be signed on the cheap. Harris, a 35-year-old defensive lineman, recently visited the New York Giants but remains a free agent. His experience and rotational role with the Cleveland Browns last season, where he made 32 tackles and 7 tackles for a loss, make him an intriguing option for the Broncos.
The Broncos' current situation calls for a veteran presence to complement the younger players competing for Franklin-Myers's spot opposite Zach Allen. Eyioma Uwazurike and Sai'vion Jones, while promising, lack the experience that Harris brings. His previous tenure with the Broncos from 2019-2021 further strengthens his case, as he was a key starter during that period.
The connection between Harris and the Broncos runs deep. General Manager George Paton included Harris in the Russell Wilson trade with the Seattle Seahawks, along with Drew Lock, Noah Fant, and a substantial amount of draft capital. Although this trade ended Harris's Broncos career, he could be a valuable short-term addition, especially considering his affordable contract.
Harris's $3 million salary last season in Cleveland reflects his value as a veteran depth player. This amount is reasonable for the Broncos, especially as it wouldn't jeopardize their 2027 comp picks. The high-tier signing of John Franklin-Myers for the Tennessee Titans ensures that a $3 million offer to Harris wouldn't threaten the Locke comp pick.
However, the Broncos are likely to wait until after the draft to make any additional free-agent moves. This strategy allows them to reassess their roster needs and target free agents without the constraints of the compensatory formula. While Cameron Jordan from the New Orleans Saints is a potential post-draft target, Shelby Harris could be a suitable short-term solution, providing veteran insurance without impacting the playing time of Uwazurike or Jones.
