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According to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis, the Denver Broncos have signed tight end Nick Vannett to a two-year deal.
The Broncos have reached a 2-year agreement with former Seahawk/Steeler TE Nick Vannett, per sources. Good blocker who had 29 and 17 catches the past two seasons. He's 6-6, 261, just turned 27. #9sports
— Mike Klis (@MikeKlis) March 21, 2020
Vannett is a 6’6”, 261lb tight end who is entering his sixth season in the NFL. He is a former third-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks and Vannett played his college ball at Ohio State.
Throughtout his five seasons in the NFL, Vannett has totaled 61 receptions for 591 yards and 4 touchdowns. However, his receving game is not why the Broncos signed Vannett. They signed him for his run blocking ability which he is known for.
With Noah Fant likely going to focus more on being a receiver, the Broncos needed to find themselves a blocking specialist to pair with their explosive tight end. Well, Vannett fits that role well and now, could push veteran Jeff Heuerman off the roster. Heuerman filled this role last year for the Broncos can save $3,875,000 by releasing him while only getting a $500,000 dead money hit. So that is a move I see happening in response to this addition.
It’s not the sexiest of moves, but it gives the Broncos a big run blocking tight end to help open up running lanes for newly signed running back Melvin Gordon and the explosive Phillip Lindsay.
Update
Here are Nick Vannett’s contract details.
Nick Vannett deal with Broncos: 2 yrs, $5.7 million
— Mike Klis (@MikeKlis) March 21, 2020
2020: $1.75 signing bonus; $1 mill salary ($750k gu); $250k per game roster. Total: $3 million.
2021: $2.75m salary (non-guaranteed)#9sports
Not a bad deal and cheaper than what Heuerman is making currently.