Jim Leonhard tried to steal Hunter Wohler for his Denver Broncos, away from Indianapolis Colts

The Denver Broncos were nearly responsible for one of the biggest rookie heists of the offseason — and it all revolves around defensive guru Jim Leonhard and rising safety Hunter Wohler.

According to multiple insiders, Leonhard, now with the Broncos, made a late and aggressive push to bring Wohler to Denver before he was ultimately scooped up by the Indianapolis Colts. The former Wisconsin defensive coordinator and NFL standout reportedly saw Wohler as a perfect fit in his vision for a rebuilt Broncos secondary — one that’s being designed to play fast, physical, and instinctively.

Leonhard's deep connection with Wohler — having coached him in college — gave the Broncos a real shot. The familiarity, the system fit, and the opportunity to play under his college mentor made the offer more than intriguing for the young prospect.

However, the Colts moved quickly, locking in Wohler with a plan that impressed him and his reps. Indianapolis, too, sees him as a potential difference-maker on the back end — someone who can contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a starting-caliber safety within Gus Bradley’s unit.

For Denver, the near-miss is a reminder of how competitive post-draft free agency and recruitment can be. While they missed out on Wohler, Leonhard’s involvement in player acquisition is becoming increasingly visible — and aggressive.

Bottom line: Hunter Wohler may wear a Colts jersey now, but his recruitment nearly became a signature win for Jim Leonhard in Denver. And if this move is any indication, the Broncos are hunting hard for elite young defensive talent — even if it means going head-to-head with other front offices to get it.