The Broncos have decided against signing any of their own free agents before they hit the open market. That means they could lose Patrick Ramsey, who was a reliable veteran backup for Jay Cutler. As free agency began, unproven Darrell Hackney was Cutler's backup.

The team will move forward at many positions. A top priority will be finding defensive veterans who can come in, start right away and have an impact on the downtrodden defense.

TEAM NEEDS

1. Defensive line: Defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson was cut, which wasn't surprising but it leaves Denver with very little at defensive tackle. Finding some quality ends is another challenge for the front office. Top defensive linemen usually get top dollar in free agency, so the Broncos will have to be smart with their choices. A lack of talent on the defensive line was a main reason Denver ranked near the bottom of the NFL in defense last season.

2. Secondary: Safety was a big concern, and then cornerback became a priority when Dre Bly was released. The Broncos don't have any surefire candidates to start opposite Champ Bailey. Denver also needs to add a couple of safeties. Rookie Josh Barrett is probably the best safety remaining, and he started only a few games last year after spending most of the season on the practice squad and made some costly mistakes. There isn't too much available in free agency or the draft at safety but the Broncos will look at the best of what is available.

3. Linebacker: The Broncos found two promising linebackers last year, rookies Spencer Larsen and Wesley Woodyard. But with a possible conversion to a 3-4 and the release of Jamie Winborn, Denver needs to stock up. Drafting a true inside linebacker with the 12th pick of April's draft can't be discounted. D.J. Williams could play any linebacker position and might be moved around depending on what Denver acquires in free agency and the draft.

FRANCHISE PLAYER: None.

TRANSITION PLAYER: None.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

--RB Tatum Bell finished the season with a good game against San Diego, but with a lot of tailbacks on the roster he is no sure bet to return.

--DE Ebenezer Ekuban played well in 2008 but it remains to be seen how he fits into the new staff's plans.

--WR Darrell Jackson didn't contribute much in 2008 and appears unlikely to return.

--S Marlon McCree didn't play in the final eight games of the season, remaining inactive even after recovering from a high ankle sprain. He doesn't appear to be in Denver's plans.

--C Tom Nalen is likely on his way to retirement after sitting out 2008 with a knee injury.

--CB Karl Paymah was demoted a couple of times during the season and will likely hit the open market.

--DT Kenny Peterson provided some depth along the line for the Broncos, although the Broncos will try to upgrade their line.

--RB Michael Pittman played pretty well before a neck injury sidelined him, but he said he feels good and wants to play in Denver again. The new coaching staff will make a decision whether to bring him back.

--TE Jeb Putzier was brought in late last season because of injuries; he is unlikely to return to the team.

--QB Patrick Ramsey is a solid backup for Jay Cutler and despite finishing on injured reserve with an arm injury last year, could be re-signed.

--WR Edell Shepherd was out all last year with a knee injury.

--LB Nate Webster started last year and played well at times. The new staff will have to decide how he fits in their defense.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (not tendered)

--RB Andre Hall (not tendered as ERFA) has played well at times and should get a shot to make the team in training camp.

--OT Erik Pears (not tendered as RFA) finished the season on physically unable to perform because of an appendectomy. He has experience at both tackle spots and could provide depth.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS: None.

EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS: None.

PLAYERS RE-SIGNED: None.

PLAYERS ACQUIRED

--RB J.J. Arrington: UFA Cardinals; 4 yrs, terms unknown.

--RB Correll Buckhalter: UFA Eagles; 4 yrs, terms unknown.

--WR Jabar Gaffney: UFA Patriots; $10M/4 yrs, $3M guaranteed.

--S Renaldo Hill: UFA Dolphins; $10M/4 yrs, $3M guaranteed.

--OG Matt McChesney: FA Dolphins; terms unknown.

--LS Lonie Paxton: UFA Patriots; $5.5M/5 yrs, $1M SB.

PLAYERS LOST

--RB Anthony Alridge (released).

--CB Dre' Bly (released).

--DE John Engelberger (released).

--RB Alex Haynes (released).

--TE Nate Jackson (released).

--LB Niko Koutouvides (released).

--S Marquand Manuel (released).

--TE Chad Mustard (released).

--RB P.J. Pope (released).

--DT Dewayne Robertson (released).

--WR Cliff Russell (released/failed physical).

--DT Josh Shaw (released).

--LB Jamie Winborn (released).