Taking a Closer Look at Broncos Futures Contracts

Oct 7, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jordan Norwood (10) catches pass as he is defended by New York Giants outside linebacker Michael Boley (59) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim O

The Denver Broncos aren’t just looking forward to next week, they’re looking toward the future. The Broncos signed five players to future contracts on Tuesday, players that will join the team when the new league year begins on March 11th.

I am of the belief that these moves are always worth noting, because you never know when a guy is going to come out of nowhere and make the roster and make contributions. The Broncos have guys do that every single year.

However, I thought this set of moves was particularly interesting because of where the guys came from. Four of the five players signed to future contracts are former Browns players, all guys that have played in the league, and all guys that were brought in by former Browns GM Tom Heckert, who is now a member of the Broncos’ front office. Here’s a list of players:

OL Mike Farrell (6’6″ 303 pounds)

Farrell has had an interesting journey to the NFL. He spent some time with the Steelers before being let go in August, but he is an intriguing athlete who really came on at the end of his career. Very smart player who has a great frame to play the offensive tackle position.

LB L.J. Fort (6’0″ 230 pounds)

Signed with the Browns as an undrafted free agent and has played a decent role for the team. Coming out of Northern Iowa, Fort racked up 20 tackles last season and picked off a pass. The Broncos certainly need some depth help at the linebacker position, and perhaps Fort can compete for a roster spot.

S Eric Hagg (6’1″ 205 pounds)

The safety position should have some spots open for competition next year, and Hagg was an interesting prospect coming out of Nebraska. He’s a solid athlete who was picked in the seventh round by Cleveland back in 2011. There were some who thought he might contend for a starting job but he was cut last May.

OL Ryan Miller (6’7″ 320 pounds)

Miller is a Colorado native who played his college ball for the Buffaloes and was picked in the fifth round in 2012 by the Browns. Can play guard or tackle and has a history of some injuries.

WR Jordan Norwood (5’11” 180 pounds)

Norwood is probably the biggest name of any of the Broncos’ future contract players. He played 16 games from 2011-12 with the Browns, catching 36 passes for 405 yards.