The Broncos enjoyed a golden age after one of the worst periods in franchise history.



The abrupt firing of Mike Shanahan in 2008 was followed by two dreadful and embarrassing seasons under Josh McDaniels. But in 2012, the Broncos’ fortunes changed when they signed a future Hall of Fame quarterback who, in turn, helped to lure four other elite free agents who changed the course of Broncos history. Within a four-year span, the Broncos boasted the most prolific offense in NFL history, then had one of the best defenses in league history, each guiding the team to a Super Bowl.



As we look back at key moments of the 2010s, here are the Broncos’ top five free-agent signings of the past decade:



1. Peyton Manning, QB



After a year on the sidelines for multiple neck surgeries, Manning embarked on a whirlwind free-agent tour in March 2012 that included a stop in Colorado. He stayed at the Castle Rock home of his former Colts teammate Brandon Stokley,...