NFL Free Agency: Broncos Didn’t Get All Their Targeted Players

Dec 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Daryl Smith (51) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a pass during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Baltimore Ravens defeated the Detroit Lions 18-16. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The Broncos have been relatively quiet on the free agent front since Wednesday when they signed DeMarcus Ware after landing two other big fish in T.J. Ward and Aqib Talib, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t trying.

According to Mike Klis of the Denver Post, Friday was a ‘tough day’ for the Broncos because two players they had interest in signed with other teams. Linebacker Daryl Smith, who was previously coached by Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville, re-signed with the Baltimore Ravens for four years, $16.1 million.

The other player the Broncos were interested in acquiring was interior offensive lineman Evan Dietrich-Smith, who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for four years, $14.25 million.

The Broncos’ interest in a center is telling. Had they been able to sign Dietrich-Smith, a center, they probably would have moved Manny Ramirez to the guard position, his more natural position. Though Ramirez played well at center, the Broncos have to figure out the most cost-effective way to replace departed Zane Beadles, who was one of the first free agents to sign when the new league year opened up the free agent frenzy on Tuesday afternoon.

That is simply my speculation, but it seems like a likely scenario.

I don’t think the Broncos are done with signing free agents, by any means. With over $10 million in cap space yet, the Broncos have needs to address at inside linebacker, wide receiver, and interior offensive line.