Derek Wolfe signs extension

The Denver Broncos on Friday signed defensive end Derek Wolfe to a four-year contract extension through the 2019 season, Executive Vice President of Football Operations/General Manager John Elway announced.

“Derek is a very talented and hard-working player who has improved every season since we drafted him in 2012,” Elway said. “This year, Derek’s developed into one of the best 3-4 defensive ends in football. We’re excited to reward one of our key emerging players and ensure that Derek is part of our team for many more seasons.”

Wolfe, who was selected by the Broncos in the second round (36th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft from the University of Cincinnati, has started all 55 regular-season games played as well as both playoff contests.

In 12 games played during the 2015 regular season, Wolfe finished the season ranked as the No. 4 overall player at his position (3-4 defensive end) according to Pro Football Focus. He trailed only unanimous first-team All-Pro J.J. Watt in Pro Football Focus’ run defense metrics while leading all Broncos defensive lineman with 49 tackles (35 solo).

Wolfe also finished the 2015 regular season with 5.5 sacks (38.5 yds.) to go along with a team-best nine tackles for a loss and one pass defensed.

A native of Lisbon, Ohio, Wolfe has totaled 140 tackles (96 solo), 17 sacks (114.5 yds.), four passes defensed and one fumble recovery during his four-year NFL career.