The Broncos have Derek Wolfe and Shelby Harris set for free agency. While both have expressed a desire to return, the prospect of the Broncos needing two replacement defensive ends certainly exists.
Denver has expressed interest in Houston defensive lineman D.J. Reader, according to 9News’ Mike Klis (on Twitter). Other teams will be in the running for the breakout interior defender, but the Broncos are monitoring the four-year Texans defender.
Reader broke through last season, registering 13 quarterback hits — more than his first three seasons combined — and ranking as Pro Football Focus’ No. 7 interior defender. At 25, he is much younger than Wolfe (29) or Harris (28). Denver drafted Dre’Mont Jones in Round 3 last year and could use him as a starter, but if both Wolfe and Harris exit, the franchise will need help up front.
The Texans and Reader have discussed an extension, but nothing has emerged on the sides being close on a re-up that would keep the former fifth-round pick in Houston. Reader started 52 games for the Texans. Both Denver and Houston rank in the top 10 in 2020 cap space, with the Broncos holding north of $70MM (seventh) and the Texans at $61MM-plus (ninth).
This is as believable as the Conklin to/not going to Jets story early today.