Ben Powers, the Denver Broncos' starting left guard, has signed a restructured one-year contract worth up to $10.5 million.
According to Spotrac, Powers' new deal includes $6 million in guaranteed salary, with an additional $2 million available through incentives. This move frees up $7.5 million in cap space for the Broncos, leaving them with $37.7 million currently, the sixth highest in the NFL.
The extra cap space is a welcome development for the Broncos, who have several pending free agents to consider. Cornerbacks Riley Moss and Ja'Quan McMillian, as well as starting safety Brandon Jones, are all due for new deals. Quarterback Bo Nix's future contract is also a pressing issue.
Ben Powers' decision to accept a pay cut may signal a competition at the left guard position. Versatile backup Alex Palczewski, who signed an extension with the team this offseason, has earned the right to compete for the job. The Broncos also drafted former Boise State left tackle Kage Casey in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, who is expected to focus on the left guard position.
Powers' new deal may not necessarily mean the end of his tenure as the team's starting left guard. If he's fully healthy, he'll likely be out with the first-team offense when training camp opens today. However, if he's still sidelined or the team is rotating players in and out of the position, then a competition may indeed be brewing.
The Broncos' move to restructure Powers' contract is a smart business decision, given the team's cap space constraints. With several key players due for new deals, the extra room in the budget will be crucial in retaining talent and building a competitive roster.
The NFL's offseason is always a period of transition, and the Broncos are no exception. With Powers' new deal and several key free agents to consider, the team will have its work cut out in the coming weeks.
Source: Yahoo Sports