ENGLEWOOD, Colo. —Two of the Broncos' most prominent restricted free agents are officially headed back to Denver for another season.
Offensive lineman Elijah Wilkinson and defensive lineman Mike Purcell have officially signed their second-round tenders, the Broncos announced Saturday.
The Broncos placed second-round tenders on both players ahead of free agency, which began March 18. The tender allowed the Broncos to receive compensation if another team gave an offer sheet to either player. In that situation, the Broncos would have been given the chance to match the offer or receive a second-round pick as compensation.
No restricted free agents signed an offer sheet with another team this season.
Wilkinson, a fourth-year player, appeared in 15 games for the Broncos in 2019 and made 12 starts. All 12 of his starts were in place of Ja'Wuan James, who dealt with a knee injury for the duration of the 2019 season.
Purcell, meanwhile, made seven starts and appeared in 13 games last season. Once the Broncos inserted Purcell at nose tackle, their rushing defense took a major step forward. Over the final 12 games of the year, the Broncos allowed the seventh-fewest rushing yards per game.
Several other Broncos signed their exclusive rights free agent tenders.
Cornerback Shakial Taylor, safety Trey Marshall and wide receivers Diontae Spencer and Tim Patrick all signed their tenders.
Exclusive rights free agents are not permitted to negotiate with other teams.
Offensive lineman Jake Rodgers is the Broncos' lone ERFA who has not signed his tender.
