Denver Broncos will let Eric Decker, other free agents test open market

Denver has plenty of talent, but some may be exiting the Mile High city.

By Matt Verderame Feb 4, 2014, 9:23am EST

The Denver Broncos fell woefully short in Super Bowl XLVIII against the Seattle Seahawks, and now hit the offseason with a lot of uncertainty.

Denver has 16 free agents, led by seven starters including wide receiver Eric Decker, running back Knowshon Moreno and cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. The Broncos plan on letting all of them test the free agent market, according to Mike Klis of the Denver Post.

Of all the free agents, Decker seems to be the most likely to leave town. The former University of Minnesota star made $1.3 million this season and put up a stat line of 87 receptions, 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns. Considering the constant need at receiver these days in the pass-happy NFL, it's tough to see Decker getting low-balled on the market.

As for Moreno, the Broncos have Montee Ball waiting in the wings to replace him. Moreno really stepped up this season, amassing 1,038 rushing yards, 548 receiving and 13 touchdowns. Most importantly, Moreno has proven to be a capable blocker for Peyton Manning, something unknown with Ball.

At 26 years old, Moreno is likely to have suitors, but running backs aren't being paid what they once were.

On the other side of the ball, Rodgers-Cromartie is likely going to get paid. Coming off an excellent season in which he was ranked the fifth-best corner in football by Pro Football Focus, Rodgers-Cromartie should have no problem finding work. Denver desperately needs to keep him with its problems already well-known on defense, but the cost might be too great.

Outside linebacker Shaun Phillips is also hitting free agency and would be a loss. Phillips led the Broncos with 10 sacks but will be 33 years old next season, which keep him from a multi-year contract.

Wesley Woodyard is another key cog who is possibly leaving. The inside linebacker had 84 tackles and is a solid presence against the run. He could be looking for a nice payday elsewhere.