Russell Okung To Sign With Denver Broncos

Capable left tackles around among the most sought-after prizes in the NFL.  So to get one who went to a Pro Bowl, won a Super Bowl and is still in his prime is rare.  Seems the Denver Broncos recognized that and made sure to scoop him up after a long pursuit.

Here is a run-through of what the big offensive lineman will bring with him.

"“Russell Okung signed a 6yr/$48 million dollar rookie deal in 2010. Unfortunately injuries have hampered his career and caused question’s about his future. When healthy, Okung is arguably one of the better tackles in the league but he has yet to play a full season in his sixth year. In 2012 Okung was a Pro Bowler in the only season where he managed to play 15 or more games. Moving forward, Okung will have to convince teams that he can remain healthy and play at his former Pro Bowl level if he wants to cash in this off-season.”"

Given the ongoing injury problems with their own former Pro Bowler, Ryan Clady, it’s no wonder the Broncos took interest in Okung.  His mixture of size, power and mobility should make an ideal fit in that Gary Kubiak offense that demands stretch running plays.  Whether he can stay healthy too (which has been a problem in the past) will be the big gamble.

GRADE:  B

Yes, left tackles in their prime who won a championship and went to a Pro Bowl are afforded a certain level of financial investment.  Still, the Denver Broncos may have paid a bit too much given the fact they were able to win the Super Bowl with Ryan Harris at that spot.  Still, the team is about to invest in a new quarterback and need the best possible protection they can get for whomever that ends up being.