The Denver Broncos signed linebacker Nik Bonitto to a four-year, $106 million contract extension (per his agency, Athletes First). The deal makes Bonitto the highest paid non-QB in Broncos history, and includes $70 million guaranteed worth up to $120 million.

The fourth-year linebacker joined the Broncos in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and is coming off of a breakout season in 2024 where he totaled a career-high 13.5 sacks over 17 games. The 6-foot-3 defender totaled 48 total tackles, 24 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for a loss, four passes defensed, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery for a score and an interception for a score in 2024, which earned him a Pro Bowl selection.

Bonitto said of his breakout campaign over the summer: “Honestly, I feel like it’s made me hungrier. Now that I’ve kind of got a taste, having a really good season and everything that comes with that, I feel like I’ve attacked this offseason the hungriest I have. I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and seeing how much I’ve grown with all the training.”

Bonitto, who was entering the final year of his contract, dealt with a bone spur injury in his foot but will be available for the team’s season opener against the Tennessee Titans.

Editorial credit: JohnDavisAustin / Shutterstock.com