The Denver Broncos have agreed to terms with former Seattle Seahawks OT Russell Okung on a one year deal, with a four year option for a total of five years. The move will boost the offensive line that struggled during the 2015 season.
It appears as if John Elway is using the offseason to bolster a line that saw its struggles during the Super Bowl run.
In perhaps the biggest signing for the Broncos so far in free agency, the team and former Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Russell Okung have come to terms on a one year deal. This includes an option that could stretch that deal to five years.
Tackle @RussellOkung signs his five-year contract with the Broncos. pic.twitter.com/izKUz5tdgN
— Patrick Smyth (@psmyth12) March 17, 2016
Okung will be making five million dollars in the one year he is with the Broncos. If he does well, that deal will stretch to an extra four years worth $48 million. There is also some incentives that could boost that five million dollar deal to eight million.
While Okung has not been healthy, he will be a solid option for the Broncos at the left tackle position. With this deal done, it has also been reported that the Broncos will look to put Ryan Clady on the trading block.
In my opinion, this signing and contract structure is a smart move by Elway. Seeing as how Okung has had his share of injuries, the five million deal that the team was looking to restructure Clady with went to Okung.
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If Okung can stay healthy and perform at a high level, look for him to become a huge part of the Broncos offensive line that is looking to improve. They did well in the playoffs, but struggled in the regular season.
I think this is perhaps the biggest signing for the Broncos this offseason. But Elway is not done. Not by a long shot. Look for him to make some more moves as the NFL Draft approaches.
Kudos to Elway. A significant move in free agency, not to mention smart as well. Now sit back and watch him perform his magic again. Welcome to Denver Russell Okung.