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The Broncos have acquired center/guard Gino Gradkowski from the Baltimore Ravens in a trade involving 2016 draft pick considerations.
Gradkowski, a fourth-round selection by the Ravens in the 2012 NFL Draft, is entering his fourth NFL season. He started at center for all 16 games in his second NFL season. During the 2013 season when he started every game, Gradkowski helped the line support quarterback Joe Flacco reach career marks in passing attempts, completions and passing yards.
In their previously announced trade, the #Ravens will receive #Broncos 2016 4th-round pick and Broncos get Ravens 5th
— Ed Werder (@Edwerderespn) April 1, 2015
In his last season as a starter Gino graded out -15.6 overall and nearly all of that was due to porous pass blocking. He allowed 3 sacks, 7 hits, and 26 hurries. Listed at 6'2" and 302 lbs, Gradkowski has the smaller frame of zone blocking center.
He will compete with Manny Ramirez, Matt Paradis, and whoever else the Broncos see fit to try at the position. Keep in mind the Broncos are still linked with former starter Will Montgomery.
Gino will count $1.542 million against the 2015 salary, with a dead hit of 121K.
The 4th round selection Denver will ship to Baltimore for Gradkowski will likely be replaced by 2016 compensatory pick.
This is a low-risk deal for the Broncos. If nothing else he provides much needed depth at the position and will be familiar with coach Gary Kubiak and the offense.