AP

The Broncos are making a strong push to convince defensive lineman Malik Jackson to stay in Denver, without waiting to test free agency.

Jackson, set to become a free agent on March 9, has been offered a long-term deal worth more than $10 million a year, the Denver Post reports.

But Jackson hasn’t accepted the deal, and probably won’t, at least not until he’s been able to test the market first. There’s no reason for Jackson to rush to sign something when he knows he’s about to become an unrestricted free agent. The Broncos are planning to use the franchise tag on Von Miller, which means they can’t tag Jackson.

Jackson played well in the regular season and even better in the playoffs, helping the Broncos win the Super Bowl. He’s about to cash in for that strong play, whether he leaves Denver or stays. The Broncos hope he stays.