Broncos Secure Zach Allen with Million-Dollar Extension
Amidst the construction of their new sports complex, the Denver Broncos continue to solidify their roster. Recently, the team has reached an agreement to extend the contract of defensive end Zach Allen for four years and $103 million. The Allen agreement, which will come into effect in 2026, includes $69.5 million guaranteed. Like Courtland Sutton’s extension, this contract will extend through the 2029 season. Allen is currently in the last year of his three-year, $45.75 million contract, signed in 2023. The extension structure maintains the base salary of $12.74 million for this final year, similar to the deals of Sutton and cornerback Pat Surtain II. Allen stands out for his high volume of play on the defensive line, playing 89% of the Broncos’ defensive snaps last season, which earned him a second-team All-Pro selection. In 2023, he participated in 81% of the defensive snaps.The versatility of Allen, who plays both end and tackle, has been praised by coach Sean Payton. Allen had an outstanding season, with 40 quarterback knockdowns and 8.5 sacks, contributing to the franchise record of 63 sacks. His 61 tackles were also a personal record. With the extensions of Allen and Sutton secured, the Broncos’ next priority could be outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, who led the team with 13.5 sacks last season and is in the final year of his rookie contract. Bonitto, selected in the second round of 2022, will become an unrestricted free agent in March.“I think it’s a strength,” coach Sean Payton said. “Zach has that stamina and that cardio, he’s in great shape. It’s difficult to play on the offensive and defensive line, especially on defense, many snaps like that. And it’s one of his strengths and his versatility.”
Sean Payton
