Since arriving in Denver in 2023, Sean Payton has made a habit of bringing in familiar faces from his New Orleans days. From players like TE Adam Trautman and WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey to coaches like OC Joe Lombardi and OL coach Zach Strief, Payton has built a Broncos roster with plenty of Saints DNA.
With free agency looming in March, here are three more ex-Saints who could be on Payton’s radar.
TE Juwan Johnson
Potentially the most glaring need for Denver heading into the offseason, the tight end position was a major weak point for the Broncos passing attack in 2024. Former third-round pick Greg Dulcich was a highly touted prospect with lofty expectations who never panned out in Denver and now finds himself with the Giants.
Johnson, 28, had his best season in 2024, hauling in 50 receptions for 548 yards and three touchdowns. Over five seasons with New Orleans, he’s racked up 146 catches, 1,622 yards, and 18 scores. At 6’4", 230 pounds, Johnson’s speed and length make him a matchup nightmare, especially against linebackers in coverage.
If Payton wants a reliable tight end who knows his system, Johnson could be a prime target.
DE Payton Turner
Turner was the last first-round pick of the Payton era in New Orleans, but injuries derailed his early career. The 26-year-old edge rusher finally stayed healthy in 2024, playing a full season for the first time.
At 6’6", 270 pounds, Turner has the prototype frame for an edge rusher and flashes the talent that made him a first-rounder. Denver’s defensive line—featuring John Franklin-Myers, DJ Jones, Zach Allen, and Malcolm Roach—is solid, but Turner could add depth and pass-rushing upside.
Given Payton’s history with Turner, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Broncos take a flier on him.
CB Paulson Adebo
Adebo, a 2021 third-round pick in Payton’s final Saints draft, was playing the best football of his career before a devastating Week 7 injury against the Broncos. The 25-year-old corner fractured his femur but was on pace for career highs, posting three interceptions and 52 tackles in just seven games.
The good news? Adebo recently posted a video of himself hitting 21 mph on a treadmill—an encouraging sign for his recovery.
With the Broncos looking for a reliable No. 2 corner opposite Patrick Surtain II, Adebo could be an intriguing option if he’s back to full strength. Second-year CB Riley Moss had an up-and-down 2024, leaving GM George Paton with a big decision to make at the position.
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