Right now, it doesn't matter who will be playing quarterback for the Denver Broncos in 2016. Right now, all that matters is getting that guy some blind side protection. Left tackle Ryan Clady has struggled with injuries for three straight years and is coming off a torn ACL that cost him all of 2015.
The 29-year-old is due $9.5 million in base salary next season, which is why the two sides are working on a potential pay cut. However, if that doesn't prove fruitful, Clady's time in Denver could be over. As such, general manager John Elway is exploring other options on the open market.
The Clady situation is reportedly "fluid" and with Ryan Harris signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers, it makes sense that the Broncos are hosting free agent left tackle Russell Okung for a visit.
OT Russell Okung expected to visit Broncos, source says. Denver looking to bolster OL after losing Ryan Harris. Clady situation fluid too.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 16, 2016
I'm told Russell Okung is traveling today for a visit with the #Broncos. — Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 16, 2016
Okung, 28, has had his own injury struggles since being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round back in 2010, missing 24 games in his six seasons. But the one-time Pro Bowler would be a solid addition at the right price. However, Clady may be the better option when fully healthy.
The Broncos could shed just south of $9 million in salary cap space by offloading Clady, money that could then be reinvested into Okung. Recent reports claim that Denver is aiming to cut Clady's salary to less than $5 million due to the 30 games he's missed over the last three years.
Okung has generated interest from the Steelers, Detroit Lions and New York Giants, along with his own Seahawks, but offseason shoulder surgery and his murky representation status have slowed his market in free agency. Also not helping matters are his contract demands. Okung is reportedly seeking a deal that would average $11-$13 million per year, putting him among the top hive highest paid offensive linemen in the league. It's doubtful that any team is going to fork over that kind of money for the solid yet inconsistent veteran.
As of now, Okung will likely sign for less than $10 million or ink a short-term deal so that he can reenter free agency before he turns 30. While the Broncos have some other options at their disposal - 2015 second-rounder Ty Sambrailo suited up at left tackle last season before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 4 - they would be wise to bolster the offensive line somehow in free agency. Whether or not Okung and Clady are in their 2016 plans remains to be seen.
For more, follow Brandon Katz on Twitter: @Great_Katzby
