Denver Broncos starting offensive line tentatively set

The Denver Broncos made some big moves on the offensive line this offseason, and with Max Garcia’s position switch, things are tentatively set…

The Denver Broncos took on a major makeover for the offensive line this offseason, letting go of starting left tackle Russell Okung and making moves at every other position besides center.

Even as good as Matt Paradis is, there’s even uncertainty there with his double hip surgery this offseason. As was previously discussed, 2016 fifth round draft pick Connor McGovern has been working this offseason at center in case Paradis is unable to play early in the year.

On Tuesday, starting guards Max Garcia and Ronald Leary spoke to the media, and while many assumed the Broncos would move Garcia to the right side, he confirmed it at his presser…

Moving Garcia to the right side where he played some as a rookie seemed like the logical option from the start, and now the Broncos’ starting offensive line appears to be tentatively set:

LT Garett Bolles (Rookie)
LG Ronald Leary
C Matt Paradis
RG Max Garcia
RT Menelik Watson

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That would give the Broncos a new starter at four of the five positions up front, which is certainly not unprecedented but will take time to form some cohesion. With a switch in blocking scheme from a zone-based scheme to more of a power/gap scheme, the personnel in place are set up better for success.

The Broncos attempted to implement a zone blocking scheme and reclaim the success of the glory days in the late 90s, but it didn’t catch on. In a system that used to crank out thousand yard backs seemingly by the dozen, the Broncos were terrible running the football, especially in short down-and-distance situations.

With a power based scheme and the new additions up front, the Broncos should be improved in every facet. That starting offensive line, even with a rookie at left tackle and the uncertainty of Menelik Watson at right tackle, will help me rest easy at night.