The Denver Broncos enter their 2026 rookie minicamp with an uncommon situation: their top three draft picks have yet to sign their rookie contracts. Defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim, running back Jonah Coleman, and the team's third-round selection will participate under injury-protection waivers rather than fully executed contracts.
This is a procedural approach that enables unsigned rookies to take part in minicamp activities--such as on-field drills, meetings, and walkthroughs--without forfeiting their negotiating leverage or financial protection should an injury occur before signing. While such developments often raise concerns among fans, this practice is a familiar and routine part of NFL early offseason operations, especially for high-round picks who negotiate complex multi-year deals with significant guaranteed money and bonus structures.
Four of the Broncos' later-round draft selections have already signed contracts and will fully participate under standard terms. The difference in timing between the later picks and the top selections primarily reflects the complexity of first- and second-round rookie deals under the league's collective bargaining agreement (CBA). First-round contracts like Onyedim's feature a fifth-year team option, offset language, and bonuses that often exceed eight figures in total compensation. These details frequently require prolonged discussions between agents and front offices to finalize.
Second-round picks such as running back Jonah Coleman typically sign somewhat faster. However, in recent years, agents are increasingly negotiating specific provisions around performance incentives and injury guarantees to protect players at the physically demanding running back position. Coleman's camp appears to be taking a measured approach to these contract particulars.
The third-round pick remains unnamed publicly in current reports but is similarly unsigned. Third-round contracts generally follow more standardized terms within the league's rookie wage scale, so this delay suggests the Broncos' front office has prioritized completing simpler later-round and undrafted free agent deals first--common resource management in contract negotiations.
This strategy aligns with NFL trends as first-round selections often finalize their contracts during or after minicamp, especially when considering the intricacies of bonus distributions and guaranteed components. The injury waiver affords all parties a safeguard, allowing these players to engage in practices and training without risking their financial interests.
From a coaching and developmental perspective, the Broncos face no disadvantages. Head coach Sean Payton and his staff, including offensive coordinator Davis Webb and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, will install foundational schemes and techniques during rookie minicamp. The top rookies' unsigned status does not impede their ability to learn the system or participate fully on the field. Furthermore, veteran players such as quarterback Bo Nix, wide receiver Courtland Sutton, and defensive lineman Zach Allen are not involved in this rookie-only minicamp phase.
Onyedim carries the spotlight as the Broncos' first-round prospect, viewed as a cornerstone addition to strengthen Denver's defensive interior alongside veteran D.J. Jones. Ensuring that he begins his rookie season on the right financial and contractual footing is a priority for both his representatives and the Broncos' management. Yet, despite the lack of a signed contract, Onyedim will practice wearing the Broncos helmet and jersey, fully engaged during this crucial early developmental stage.
General manager George Paton, overseeing these negotiations, operates with a healthy salary cap and a clearly delineated rookie salary pool. As a result, the discussions revolve around contract language nuances rather than the monetary values, which are largely predetermined by draft slotting and league rules. Given this, the expectation is that all three top picks will have contracts finalized shortly, likely within the coming week.
This scenario represents standard NFL offseason business rather than dysfunction or holdout adversity. The Broncos' experience aligns with practices employed throughout the league, making this contractual delay typical in the current era of detailed rookie agreements.
As the Broncos approach organized team activities (OTAs) and the full offseason program--including the reporting of veteran players--the hope is that every draft selection will be signed and integrated fully into the roster. This ensures the team can focus on player development, chemistry, and depth building with a complete personnel picture.
For Onyedim, Coleman, and the third-round rookie, participation under injury waivers means their journey into the league begins with a slight administrative anomaly but an otherwise conventional start. The focus remains squarely on football, with pads on and eyes forward toward training camp and the 2026 season.
Denver Broncos fans can rest assured that while contract signatures are pending, the players are present, active, and ready to contribute. The business side will catch up swiftly to the football side in the weeks ahead, completing the formalities so the team can move forward collectively.
In sum, the Broncos' top three draft picks are on the field and learning, embodying the often unseen but critical work of rookie development--a vital element to Denver's future competitiveness and success.