A seasoned linebacker for the Denver Broncos reportedly experienced a "change of heart," halting his previously planned free agency move to the Carolina Panthers.

Justin Strnad decided to stay with the Broncos on Tuesday, March 19, after agreeing on a deal with the Carolina Panthers earlier during the day, as per league insider Mike Garofolo of the NFL Network.

The 27-year-old linebacker committed to a one-year contract to remain in Denver, the sole team he has been affiliated with since being drafted in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft as the 178th overall pick.

Had Strnad accepted the Panthers' offer, he would have joined fellow linebacker Josey Jewell, who moved to Charlotte earlier in the offseason last week.

The former Wake Forest player would have reunited with former Broncos defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and inside linebackers coach Pete Hansen.

Justin Strnad made decent contributions for the Denver Broncos in 2023

Strnad appeared in all 17 regular-season games throughout the 2023 season, recording four solo tackles and one assist.

He also contributed to the team by participating in 395 special teams snaps, but he did not appear in a single snap on defense.

Despite his efforts, the Broncos concluded the season with a record of 8-9, failing to secure a postseason berth and ending up third in the AFC West Division.