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The Denver Broncos picked up Clinton McDonald in free agency after he spent this previous four seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He instantly provided quality depth and rotation in the interior of the defensive line.
Name: Clinton McDonald
Position: Defensive Tackle
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 297 lbs
Age: 31
Experience: 9th season
College: Memphis
McDonald has been dealing with a shoulder issue this offseason, but it seems he has passed his physical and is cleared to participate in Broncos camp this week.
The Good
A big reason why the Broncos pursued McDonald in free agency was that he had a knack for generating pressure inside having racked up 8.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Inside pressure was a key area of weakness for the Broncos in 2017.
With a situational rotation that involves big time run stoppers like Adam Gotsis and Derek Wolfe on certain downs being subbed by Shelby Harris and Clinton McDonald in pass situations could help keep opposing offenses off balance and frustrated.
The Bad
McDonald’s injury history should be a concern as he has never finished a full season. Fortunately, the issue that has been limiting him for the last few seasons apparently stemmed from an infection in his shoulder from a surgery in 2015.
Since that issue has been identified and fixed, we could be seeing McDonald at 100% healthy for the first time in a long time.
Quotable
After a frustrating offseason on the sidelines, McDonald is finally ready to go out and compete.
“I feel great,” McDonald said. “I’ve been working out with Derek Wolfe, Domata Peko [and] Adam Gotsis up here in Denver for about three-and-a-half weeks now, and I feel very encouraged.”
2018 Status
I think McDonald easily makes this team. He is a proven veteran and just barely over 30 years old. He should have plenty left in the tank for this season to secure a final 53-man roster spot.
If he can stay healthy, he should provide the Broncos with some pass rush inside and help Von Miller and Bradley Chubb secure some one-on-one matchups outside.