Mike Purcell signs 3-year extension with Broncos

LARAMIE -- In the spring of 2019, Mike Purcell was already looking ahead to his career after football.

Sitting in his truck in the parking lot outside of Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, the former Wyoming star said he was planning to become a firefighter and spend more time with his wife and two small children.

It didn't help that he just completed what would be his final game in the Alliance of American Football. The league folded just two days later, leaving Purcell unemployed once again.

NFL sources Tuesday reported that the Denver Broncos are giving Purcell a contract extension through 2023 worth an estimated $14.8 million with $6.8 million guaranteed.

The team made it official this afternoon:

Mike Klis, a Denver beat writer, said it all in this Tweet:

Last season, Purcell's first with his hometown team, the big defensive tackle racked up 48 tackles and eight tackles for loss. Through four games this year, Purcell has 13 tackles for loss, a stuff and his first sack since 2015.

Purcell played at Wyoming from 2009-12. He registered 197 tackles in Laramie, including 15 for loss. He also added four sacks and three forced fumbles.

To read about Purcell's journey, check out our story, fittingly called "Stability would be nice," right HERE.