Bobby Richardson signed by Denver Broncos for DL depth

The Denver Broncos signed defensive lineman Bobby Richardson, formerly of the Saints, to bolster depth on the defensive line…

As the Denver Broncos prepare for the frenzy of free agency, they have already started making some roster moves. On Friday, the team added former Saints starting defensive lineman Bobby Richardson:

Richardson was a starter for 11 games with the New Orleans Saints as a rookie in 2015, and looked to be a very nice find in the undrafted free agent pool that year. The Saints let Richardson go in September this past season, and he was picked up by the Redskins, signed to their practice squad.

After a short stint with Washington, Richardson signed to the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad, and was let go in November.

For the Broncos, he will be an interesting depth pickup heading into OTAs. He’s still young (only 24 years old) and quite talented. Despite struggling through his second year in the NFL not playing any regular season games, Richardson was once considered a third round prospect and has some positional versatility.

More from Predominantly Orange

• Broncos chances of landing Sean Payton dwindling, but not gone
• Denver Broncos dream coaching staff for DeMeco Ryans
• Denver Broncos: “Sleeper” David Shaw checks every box
• The Broncos’ coaching search likely has not gone to plan
• Special Chiefs Suck Offer: Bet $5, Win $150 if Joe Burrow Passes for ONE YARD vs KC

Because of his long, nearly 35-inch arms, Richardson is able to compensate for a lack of great height or bulk by extending and he uses that length to his advantage when it comes to special teams (blocking kicks) or in the passing game (batting the ball down at the line of scrimmage).

What Richardson was known for in college was a relentless motor and excellent quickness off the ball. He’s very athletic for his size, and doesn’t let his lack of ideal bulk (under 290 pounds) hinder his ability to go up against bigger offensive linemen.

I really like this signing for the Broncos, especially heading into the offseason. This is a young player with upside who has started games in the NFL. This isn’t just a player who is going to take up space on the 90-man roster going into camp, but someone who is a low risk, potentially high reward pickup.

Add in the fact that Richardson will be working with Bill Kollar, and this adds up to a very savvy move by the Broncos’ front office.