Broncos make a big move in the secondary

DENVER — After a quiet few hours to start free agency, John Elway made a splash on Monday night.

According to multiple reports, the Broncos signed safety-corner hybrid Kareem Jackson to a three-year, $33 million deal.

Jackson, 30, is an incredibly versatile defensive back that can play safety, inside cornerback and outside cornerback. Last year with Houston, Jackson played all three positions, having a breakout year at corner.

In 2018, Jackson racked up 87 tackles to go along with 17 pass breakups and two interceptions. He was the fifth-best cornerback, according to Pro Football Focus, trailing just behind Chris Harris Jr.

Along with the $11 million per year average, Jackson has $23 million in guarantees with Denver.

Jackson instantly becomes the Broncos’ highest-paid defensive back and only trails Von Miller on the defensive side of the ball.

A first-round draft pick in 2010 out of Alabama, Jackson is as reliable as they come, only missing 12 games in his nine seasons.

With Bradley Roby exploring free agency, Denver had a massive hole at cornerback. Jackson provides an instant upgrade and the ability to play safety, especially with the Broncos letting go of Darian Stewart.

At the Combine, Vic Fangio stated tackling was a “non-negotiable” trait for all of his defensive players. Jackson certainly fits the bill.

Although he’s undersized, 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, he’s not only a sure tackler, but can deliver the big hit — i.e. laying out Phillip Lindsay in Week 9.

The veteran defensive back was drafted No. 20 overall in 2010 and spent his entire career with the Texans until signing with Denver Monday night.