Broncos Safety Reveals Connection With NFL Legend Troy Polamalu

The Denver Broncos made multiple additions in the offseason, with one of their main ones being safety Talanoa Hufanga. The Broncos signed the former San Francisco 49ers safety to a three-year deal worth $39 million, including $20 million guaranteed.

After investing a lot into Hufanga, the Broncos need a big season out of the 26-year-old safety. While still in the offseason, there are already signs pointing towards the Broncos' safety having a great leg-up on the competition for 2025.

During Hufanga's press conference during Broncos OTA's on the Broncos YouTube channel, he mentioned his connection with NFL Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu. Hufanga brought up what Polamalu did for him as he worked his way to the NFL.

"Being a sponge, you have to absorb as much knowledge around him," said Hufanga, talking about being around Polamalu. Hufanga then went on to describe his first meeting with the NFL legend.

"I think the first time I ever encountered him was coming out of high school. We both were from Oregon, both played safety, and both went to USC. A guy that I asked, 'What can I do to be a better safety?' That was my very first question. I was 17, so please don't be mad. He said, 'We have to work on your character first.' That's just a testament to who he is, who raised him, and the way he learned throughout his journey in the league."

 

Hufanga isn't only picking up on Polamalu's game-changing ability on the field, he's also learning how to be better off it. The lesson of improving one's character stuck with Hufanga.

He explained that, "So for me, my character I would like to say is the most important part first."

Focusing on having a great character is the main lesson that Hufanga learned from talking with Polamalu. That lesson, which still impacts Hufanga to this day, is a great sign of Hufanga's character.

Heading into his fifth NFL season, Hufanga is taking over one of the Broncos' starting safety jobs. He's coming off a disappointing 2024 season, where he suffered an injury against the Arizona Cardinals in week five, forcing him onto injured reserve and missing significant time.

Looking ahead to 2025, Hufanga needs to stay healthy for the Broncos to get a return on their investment. However, there will be no questions of whether Hufanga is giving his all for the team. With Polamalu in Hufanga's ear, giving him lessons on improving his character, the Broncos know they added a great person to their locker room.