:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66172980/usa_today_13741261.0.jpg)
There are no quick fixes for the Denver Broncos offensive line. Even if they end up with five players they feel are starters, they’ll likely still have questions about their depth at every position. Once place they might find a good stop-gap in that area is in free agency with a guy like former Carolina Panthers right tackle and guard, Daryl Williams.
The former fourth-round pick from 2015 will enter this season as an unrestricted free agent and it doesn’t look like the Panthers have any intention to pursue re-signing him.
What kind of contract could he get
Williams signed a one-year six million dollar contract with the Panthers last season, but that was as a right tackle. However, he only started four games at tackle in 2019 and played a majority of the season at right or left guard. It will depend on how and where he’ll be used, but I would think it would be along the interior.
A short-term deal in the middling range would be interesting for Williams and the Broncos, because signing him would be more about depth than anything.
Why the Broncos should sign him
There is potential there as Williams was a second-team All-Pro selection in 2017, but his last two seasons were a bit of a disappointment. Part of that could be his switch from right tackle (where he played all 16 games at in 2017) to interior guard positions last season.
With the injury history Ja’Wuan James has, it might be interesting to add Williams in the mix and work him into a starter inside. That would give the Broncos a player who could easily move outside to right tackle if the need arose.
Why the Broncos shouldn’t sign him
His grade in 2019 dropped significantly from 2018 and there is little chatter about the Panthers retaining him for next season. That’s usually a good indicator that he had a poor season. His 12 sacks allowed last season are also a huge concern.
At the very most, I would see Williams as a stop-gap to the future and would add depth to a position group with very little depth to speak of.
Final word
If the contract were reasonable, then I could be convinced that signing Williams is a good fit for Denver. I wouldn’t see him as anything more than a short-term need as the team continues its multi-year revamping of the offensive line.
What do you think, Broncos Country?