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Offensive lineman Will Montgomery, who started at center and guard for the Washington Redskins the past three seasons under Mike Shanahan, will visit with the Denver Broncos early this week, the Denver Post reports.
Montgomery, a seventh round draft pick in 2006, had bounced around the league (and different offensive line positions) with the Panthers, Jets and Reskins until he found a comfort zone at center in Washington over the last few years. Montgomery, 31, started every game and played every snap at center in 2012 and 2013 for the 'Skins and did a more-than-decent job; PFF graded him a whopping +21.8 in 2012 and a decent +4.8 in 2013.
It's not clear why Montgomery was released; the move saved Washington just under $2 million in cap space, and that's about what a team should expect to spend on a quality starting center. If the Broncos do sign Montgomery, he'd likely assume the starting center role so Manny Ramirez can move to left guard and replace Zane Beadles, who signed with the Jaguars.
While Montgomery might not be a superstar, his addition would upgrade Denver's offensive line. Plus, he has a kickass last name.
Finally, of course, Broncos fans only need to look toward backup tackle Chris Clark and Ramirez himself, a former backup guard, to see how protecting Peyton Manning makes a decent offensive lineman a great one. I'm hoping the Broncos can meet with Montgomery and get the deal done.