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Broncos Decide Not To Place Franchise Tag On Franklin-Myers For One Key Reason Ahead Of Free Agency

DENVER — As the NFL franchise tag window approaches, the Denver Broncos appear to have made a notable decision regarding the future of John Franklin-Myers. According to league sources, Denver is not expected to use the franchise tag on the veteran defensive end, despite his importance to one of the league’s top defensive units over the past two seasons.

Franklin-Myers recorded 14.5 sacks combined during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, emerging as a steady edge presence in Denver’s pass rush rotation. His ability to generate consistent pressure off the edge played a significant role in the Broncos fielding one of the NFL’s most effective defenses in 2025.

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However, the primary reason behind the decision reportedly comes down to financial flexibility. The Broncos are projected to have roughly $28.8 million in cap space entering the offseason. Applying the franchise tag to an EDGE/defensive end — projected to cost between $20 million and $25 million for 2026 — would consume the majority of that space and significantly limit the team’s ability to address other roster needs.

Team officials are believed to be prioritizing long-term roster balance over a short-term one-year tag commitment. With multiple areas requiring reinforcement — including offensive depth and additional defensive pieces — Denver appears unwilling to tie up such a large portion of its salary cap in a single tag.

That does not mean the organization has closed the door on Franklin-Myers. A long-term extension remains a possibility if both sides can reach a financially sustainable agreement. Still, once free agency opens, Franklin-Myers is expected to draw serious interest from teams seeking proven pass-rush production.

Choosing not to tag him may raise concerns among fans, but it reflects a broader strategic approach. In today’s NFL, cap management is as critical as on-field talent, and the Broncos seem intent on preserving flexibility as they build toward 2026.

With the market set to open soon, Franklin-Myers could become one of the most sought-after defensive ends available. And Denver’s decision — rooted in financial pragmatism — may ultimately shape both his future and the long-term direction of the Broncos’ defense.

BRONCOS NEWS: Bad Bunny Says He Will Never Attend Another Football Game After Super Bowl LX Backlash
In the aftermath of Super Bowl LX, Bad Bunny made a shocking declaration that immediately ignited widespread discussion across social media. The global superstar stated that he no longer intends to attend football games after facing intense backlash tied to the event. What was expected to be one of the most celebrated halftime performances quickly turned into a deeply polarizing cultural moment. During the Super Bowl festivities, Bad Bunny was met with loud boos and visible hostility from sections of the crowd inside the stadium. The reaction was especially intense among segments of Denver Broncos fans. Multiple videos circulating online showed groups of Broncos supporters loudly voicing their disapproval during portions of the performance. Some fans argued that the show didn’t align with what they believe the Super Bowl stage should represent, while others expressed frustration that the focus had shifted away from football itself. Sources close to the situation said the backlash was far more severe than Bad Bunny anticipated. Rather than routine sports criticism, the response reportedly felt personal and emotionally jarring for the performer. With Super Bowl LX drawing a massive global audience, every cheer and every boo was amplified. What might have remained a brief in-stadium reaction instead became an international talking point within minutes, replayed and dissected across sports and entertainment platforms. Those familiar with the aftermath say the experience significantly reshaped Bad Bunny’s view of football culture. The incident has reignited debate about how halftime performers are treated on the sport’s biggest stage and whether the emotional toll is underestimated. NFL insiders note that while the exposure of performing at the Super Bowl is unparalleled, the pressure and scrutiny can be equally immense. The line between artistic expression and fan expectation often becomes blurred in such a high-stakes environment. Bad Bunny has not clarified whether his decision applies to all future NFL involvement or strictly to attending games in person. Still, his message was clear — and emotionally charged — following one of the most talked-about Super Bowls in recent memory.