In a thrilling turn of events for Denver Broncos fans, outside linebacker Nik Bonitto has officially secured a stunning four-year contract extension worth $106 million, including a hefty $70 million guaranteed. This record-setting deal, announced by agency Athletes First, cements Bonitto's position as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the history of the franchise.

But that's not all—if he hits certain performance incentives, this deal could skyrocket to a whopping $120 million, keeping Bonitto on the squad through the 2029 season.

Just weeks before this monumental agreement, Bonitto had confidently projected that a new deal was on the horizon, showcasing his prowess not just on the field but in predicting his future.

This extension completes an impressive offseason for the Broncos, who have also locked down wide receiver Courtland Sutton to a four-year, $92 million deal and defensive lineman Zach Allen for four years at $102 million.

The excitement around Bonitto, a second-round pick from the 2022 draft, has been palpable among Broncos management, including general manager George Paton and head coach Sean Payton, both of whom were optimistic about finding common ground with the young star.

At just 25 years old, Bonitto is rapidly establishing himself as one of the NFL's most electrifying edge rushers. Last season, he earned a spot on the second-team All-Pro list and made his first Pro Bowl appearance, leading the Broncos with an impressive 13.5 sacks and contributing to the team’s league-leading total of 63.

His stellar performance didn't stop there—Bonitto marked career highs in tackles with 48 and recorded 24 quarterback hits, not to mention scoring touchdowns from both an interception return and a fumble recovery. Denver's coaching staff noted significant improvement in his run defense as well.

Bonitto has showcased remarkable growth, evolving from a rookie season with just 1.5 sacks to becoming a disruptive force on the field. "As I neared the end of last season, I noticed I was facing more chips and double-teams," he shared, expressing an expectation for similar strategies against him this upcoming season.

Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has lauded Bonitto as "a special player" in the pass rush, with even greater potential ahead.

Although Bonitto missed the last two preseason games due to a foot surgery, he displayed flashes of brilliance in a brief stint during the preseason opener. Over the course of just three plays, he notched a sack and disrupted 49ers quarterback Mac Jones, demonstrating his ability to pressure quarterbacks effectively.

In preparation for this season, Bonitto arrived at the Broncos' offseason program slightly heavier, weighing in at about eight pounds more than last year, to test how his movements would adapt. After assessing his performance during drills, he maintained this weight for training camp, weighing around 248 pounds, confident in his agility against the formidable double-teams he anticipates facing.