TE/FB James Casey Gives Broncos a Versatile Weapon

It seemed to make a ton of sense at the outset of free agency for the Broncos to be all-in on finding a replacement for Julius Thomas, but the way they’ve approached it has been pretty entertaining, to say the least.

The Broncos kicked off free agency — actually, before it even started — by hosting James Casey for a visit through team facilities. Casey obviously didn’t sign a deal until a month later, but the Broncos got a player that is extremely versatile, that can earn a roster spot as a tight end, fullback, or on special teams.

Casey might not be a master of any specific trade in the NFL, but he’s definitely a ‘jack’ of all of them.

In addition to grading out as a really good run blocker for the TE position, Casey was one of the Eagles’ best special teams players last season. He has proven throughout his career to be a good pass catcher, blocker, and special teamer, which undoubtedly all contributed to the Broncos’ interest in him. Throw in the fact that he’s a former draft pick of the Kubiak regime in Houston, and this was a pairing that was simply meant to be.

The headline with Casey might be that the Broncos signed yet another tight end. Heck, people might even go so far as to say this could be the new starting fullback, which Kubiak said would be re-implemented into this Broncos offense.

He can certainly do those things and move around the offensive formation, but the ability to play that much on special teams and be as effective as he was is something the Broncos desperately need. So often, they struggled last season on special teams, and getting a guy like this to pair with David Bruton and some of the other aces the Broncos have will be phenomenal.

So what does the addition of Casey mean for the Broncos? More so than helping replace Julius Thomas, first of all, I think this move helps ease the pain of losing Jacob Tamme to the Falcons, a player the Broncos wanted to bring back.

I also think Casey might even be a little bit more valuable in terms of a versatility standpoint. The Broncos can line him up pretty much anywhere in any situation and expect him to get the job done. He’s just that kind of athlete.

This isn’t a signing that’s going to shake the ground, by any means, but Casey is a very solid get for the Broncos and a player that’s going to prove extremely valuable this season in a number of different ways.

Next: Broncos Complete Roster Turnover Before Draft