Broncos Extend Wil Lutz: Evaluating the New Contract
The Denver Broncos have made a significant move by extending the contract of kicker Wil Lutz. This decision solidifies Lutz’s position with the team as he was previously due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025 season. The new extension ensures his presence with the Broncos through the 2028 season.
Details of Wil Lutz’s Contract Extension
Wil Lutz’s extension spans three years, valued at $16.1 million, with $7.71 million fully guaranteed. Below is a summary of the contract breakdown:
| Year | Signing Bonus | Base Salary | Guaranteed Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $5.2M (fully guaranteed) | $5.8M (cap charge) | $5.2M |
| 2026 | $793,335 (option bonus) | $1.3M (fully guaranteed) | $2.1M |
| 2027 | $2.28M (option bonus) | $1.345M | Variable (up to $2.5M) |
| 2028 | $3.77M (option bonus) | $1.39M | Variable |
Cap Charges Breakdown
- 2025: $5.8M
- 2026: $2.5M
- 2027: $3.4M
- 2028: $4.2M
The Broncos cleverly structured the contract using option bonuses to minimize immediate cap charges. An option bonus, when exercised, acts similarly to a signing bonus, allowing for more flexible salary cap management.
For the 2026 season, Lutz’s option is fully guaranteed, with the guarantee becoming effective on March 17. In contrast, the options for 2027 and 2028 hold a later exercise date of September 1, providing the Broncos with strategic decision-making power on Lutz’s future with the team.
Wil Lutz’s Standing Among NFL Kickers
In terms of salary, Lutz ranks sixth among NFL kickers in average salary per year and boasts the ninth-highest fully guaranteed amount, along with the tenth-highest total guarantees. Despite the lucrative deal, it does not set a new benchmark for the kicker position. Lutz receives a respectable raise while ensuring the Broncos maintain a commitment to him for the next two seasons without overextending financially.
This contract extension reflects the Broncos’ strategy of rewarding players for their performance while managing cap space effectively. The front office appears to have successfully navigated the current market, balancing Lutz’s value and the team’s financial health.
