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Broncos roster: S Talanoa Hufanga (No. 9) improves already-stout defense
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- Broncos roster: S Talanoa Hufanga (No. 9) improves already-stout defense
Broncos Wire 's 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at fifth-year safety Talanoa Hufanga , No. 9.
Before the Broncos :Hufanga was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round (180th overall) of the 2021 NFL draft, and he was thrust into action almost immediately. Hufanga saw action in 15 of 17 games in 2021, starting three games, recording 32 tackles (24 solo, eight assisted), one tackle for loss and one QB hit.
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Hufanga's best season as a pro came in 2022 when he started 17 games, earning a Pro Bowl selection and a first-team All-Pro nod after netting four interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown), two forced fumbles, nine pass deflections, two sacks, 97 total tackles (66 solo, 31 assisted) and five tackles for losses.
In 2023 and 2024, Hufanga had his seasons cut short due to injury, although he managed to put together some strong stats in 2023. Before tearing his ACL in Week 11 of 2023, Hufanga collected three interceptions, three pass deflections, 52 total tackles (39 solo, 13 assisted), one tackle for loss and two QB hits. In 2024, Hufanga only started seven games, making 38 total tackles (20 solo, 18 assisted) and two tackles for loss before suffering various injuries that sidelined him on injured reserve.
Broncos tenure:Hufanga departed the 49ers as an unrestricted free agent this spring, signing with the Broncos on a three-year deal worth up to $45 million . He is projected to start across from Brandon Jones in 2025.
Chance to make the 53-man roster:Lock. The Broncos would not have brought in Hufanga, even with his injury-riddled history, if he were not going to be a starter. Hufanga will be a vital piece in a Denver defense that was near the top of the league in every defensive statistical category last year. Hufanga and fellow free agent signee Dre Greenlaw will help Denver's defense reach another level in 2025.
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: broncos-roster-9-talanoa-hufanga-bio
