Denver Broncos In Danger Of Losing Malik Jackson

Everybody knew that the Denver Broncos were faced with a difficult situation in regards to NFL free agency. Most of their money and focus would have to be on retaining star pass rusher Von Miller and quarterback Brock Osweiler, what with Peyton Manning set to retire. The problem is this has made it difficult for the team to lock up other key players, none more so than defensive end Malik Jackson.

The former 5th round pick had a breakout season with 5.5 sacks and was a constant presence in the backfield. He was active along their defensive front all season and a key component to their dominance. That is why retaining him is so critical, and the Broncos are desperate to do so. Problem is his price is high, and the two sides haven’t come close to agreement.

Not a good sign with free agency so close, and made worse by the fact that the franchise tag isn’t in play because of Miller and Osweiler.

Jackson has said he would love to stay in Denver, but made it clear he has to think about his family. Given he’s already got a ring, it makes sense that he’d prefer to seek out the best possible contract he can get, hopefully around the $12 million per year mark he’s seeking.

"“Oh yeah, I love it here man. I think I’m accustomed to living here,” Jackson said. “I’ve tried my past four years to get better and prove to Mr. Elway that I like it here with my play. You know it’s one thing about this this thing is it’s a business you know it doesn’t matter what you like or where you like it. It’s where you can feed your family and make enough money to feed your family. So for me it’s one of those things I would love to stay here and just kinda continue to start here with my boys. Continue this run with them and try to get another one with this defense but you know it is a business and I gotta feed my family so we’ll see what happens.”"

Thing is Jackson knows his value is peaking. There are a host of teams around the league in need of defensive line help and thanks to a huge spike in the salary cap ceiling, should be able to afford close to his asking price. Denver still has time to work some magic, but the clock is ticking and there hasn’t been any significant signs of progress.