Three Remaining Veterans That Still Make Sense For The Denver Broncos

Nick Mangold has spent his entire career as the center of the New York Jets before being released this offseason.  Although he is getting up there in age, he would be a great insurance policy behind Matt Paradis.  Paradis had to have both of his hips operated on this offseason.  While he is doing well in his rehab, and is supposed to be a full go at the start of the season, it wouldn’t hurt to have a veteran behind him that can play.  It is far more likely that Mangold would look elsewhere at an opportunity at a starting spot, but if he is still available come June, and willing to be a backup, this would make perfect sense.

Another thing is Paradis may struggle some to adjust to the Broncos new blocking scheme.  For the past two years, Paradis has excelled in Kubiak’s zone-blocking scheme.  While Davidson will likely add some zone-blocking elements, it is expected to be primarily a power-blocking scheme which could hurt Paradis.  While Paradis graded out as one of the top centers in the league a year ago, the one area he still struggled with was sometimes getting pushed back too much.  In a power blocking scheme, he will be expected to really get some push in the run game, and it is yet to be seen how he will take to that.

If Paradis were to struggle, Mangold would be a great option as he has always been a brute force in the middle of the Jets line.  Mangold could serve as a mentor of sorts for Paradis, if nothing else.  If Mangold is willing, and the financial commitment is low, there is really no downside to this move.  It would likely be a move Elway would consider later on, if at all, but would certainly be a good depth move on that offensive line.