Denver Broncos Free Agency Wish List: Tight Ends

Dec 7, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Charles Clay (42) runs against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Sun Life Stadium. Ravens won 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Mr. Versatility — Charles Clay, Dolphins

Charles Clay is a really fun player to watch. Coming out of college, he was underrated out of Tulsa because he was labeled a ‘tweener.’ He played multiple positions well, both as a receiver and out of the backfield, and has since turned into one of the best (yeah, I said it) tight ends in the NFL.

Clay has soft hands, he’s a mismatch in the passing game, he can play fullback/H-back, and he makes people miss in the open field. Last season, he had 12 missed/broken tackles. Julius Thomas had just two by comparison.

I think Clay in the Kubiak offense with Manning as his QB for a year would be a fantastic addition, and could see a career high in touchdowns as a mismatch with all the other stars in Denver’s offensive lineup.

While Jordan Cameron would be Mr. Sneaky-Exciting, Charles Clay would be Mr. Sneaky-Great who would thrive in the Denver offense.

Needs a Change of Scenery — Jermaine Gresham, Bengals

Jermaine Gresham is a big target and former first round pick who needs to get himself a change of scenery from Cincinnati, which hasn’t utilized him to his fullest potential.

He caught almost 80 percent of his targets last season and finished with five touchdowns, but he also had three fumbles. I think Gresham is a really solid player who could be better in the next city in which he plays than he has been for the Bengals. He has a complete skill set and is underrated as a receiver.

The Coaching Connection — Owen Daniels, Ravens

Owen Daniels has played all nine of his NFL seasons with Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak (8 in Houston, 1 in Baltimore). Why not make it an even 10 in Denver?

The Broncos have not shied away from bringing in players that coaches or other players are comfortable with, and Daniels has a strong bond with Gary Kubiak. As an inexpensive, short-term investment, you can’t do much better than this.

With somewhat low expectations this past season in Baltimore, Daniels finished with 48 catches for 527 yards and four touchdowns. He is still a very capable target at tight end going into his 10th season. Injury history here is something to monitor as well.

Next: In-House and Other Options...