NFL trade rumors: Denver Broncos predicted to chase $5.85 million Kansas City Chiefs safety to bolster rotation and improve title odds

Early offseason discussion around the AFC West includes Kansas City safety Bryan Cook and a possible move to Denver. The Denver Broncos are expected to pursue Cook when free agency opens, which could affect both defenses if the signing happens.This is not a trade scenario. Cook has completed his rookie contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March 2026. Denver can sign him without giving up draft picks, while Kansas City must decide whether the cost of a new deal fits its roster plans.Cook is 26 and coming off the most productive season of his career. Denver needs stability at safety, and the front office appears willing to spend to address that position.

Kansas City has typically avoided large safety contracts, and limited cap space could make a return difficult.

Free Agency Situation and Contract Outlook

Bryan Cook is projected to receive about $14-15 million per year on a multi-year contract, possibly close to four years and roughly $56-60 million.If the Chiefs allow him to leave, they would not receive compensation unless they use the franchise tag, which is not expected. Denver would likely place Cook next to Justin Simmons in the starting lineup.

The current group relies heavily on Simmons, with Talanoa Hufanga and P.J. Locke providing depth.Kansas City could turn to younger players such as Chamarri Conner and Jaden Hicks if Cook departs.

What Bryan Cook Adds to the Denver Broncos

Bryan Cook started all 17 games in 2025 and recorded 85 total tackles with six pass deflections. He has shown consistent availability and can handle coverage responsibilities, which would help a defense led by Patrick Surtain II and Simmons.Denver swept Kansas City in 2025. Signing a regular starter from a division opponent would further strengthen the roster.Cook has experience in a defense that requires communication, man coverage, and run support. Those responsibilities match Denver’s defensive structure.

Why Kansas City Chiefs Could Move On

Letting Bryan Cook walk would free cap space for other priorities, including offensive help or pass rush. The risk is losing a steady contributor in the secondary and relying on less experienced replacements.Roster continuity is also a factor. Replacing a full-time starter can create short-term instability.

Bryan Cook Career Stats (2022-2025)

Player Details

• Age: 26 (born 1999) • Draft: No. 62 overall pick in 2022 from Cincinnati • Contract projection: about four years, $56.7 million

Pros and Cons of a Possible Signing

Denver Broncos

Pros: • Strengthens the secondary with an established starter • Adds playoff experience, including two Super Bowl titles and 45 starts • Improves the roster while taking a starter from a division rivalCons: • A large contract could limit spending at other positions such as offensive line or pass rush • Cook missed time late in 2024

Kansas City Chiefs

Pros: • Gains financial flexibility • Can redirect resources to other needsCons: • Risks a drop in defensive consistency • Would depend on younger players to fill the role

Broncos Safety Depth

Overall Assessment of the mock trade

If Denver signs Cook, the team addresses a clear need without giving up assets. Kansas City would gain cap space but lose a starter.The outcome largely depends on contract value, but the move would likely benefit Denver more from a roster standpoint while forcing Kansas City to adjust its secondary.