NFL Free Agency: Denver Broncos Ink T.J. Ward & Aqib Talib While They Have Their Sights On DeMarcus Ware

January 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Aqib Talib against the Denver Broncos in the 2013 AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos made some big-time moves to address needs on the defensive side of the ball Tuesday afternoon. Denver would first pick-up strong safety T.J. Ward formerly of the Cleveland Browns on a four-year, $23 million deal with roughly $14.0 million guaranteed. Ward is expected to make over $5.5 million over those four years.

The biggest surprise of the night was the Denver Broncos reaching out to former New England Patriots cornerback Aqib Talib and reaching an agreement for six-years worth around $57 million. This isn’t the first time the Broncos have pried a player away from the Patriots. They would sign slot receiver Wes Welker in the offseason last year which was one of the biggest moves.

Talib fills the cornerback need which the Broncos need after releasing All-Pro Champ Bailey. Bailey freed up roughly $9.0 million in cap space which leaves the Broncos with plenty of flexibility. With the signing of Talib, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is no longer in the picture with the Broncos.

Denver also has their eyes on a top-pass rusher in DeMarcus Ware who was released by the Dallas Cowboys Tuesday afternoon. Ware would be an immediate upgrade over free-agent LB/DE Shaun Phillips.