DENVER -- With an opportunity to improve and money to spend, the Broncos opened free agency by bolstering their offensive line.
The Broncos agreed to a four-year, $44-million deal with Lions guard Graham Glasgow, per multiple sources. The deal includes $26 million in guaranteed money.
With Ron Leary out, the Broncos needed help upfront and identified Glasgow as their top target because of his versatility. He profiles as a guard, but could even play tackle, leaving offensive line boss Mike Munchak intrigued by his potential.
Glasgow, 6-foot-6, 310 pounds, has started at center for two seasons, and played primarily right guard last season for the Lions. He turns 28 in July. He didn't allow a single sack a year ago, good news for a Broncos group that struggle with protection until Drew Lock took over the final five games. Glasgow was looking for a fulltime job with a strong commitment after moving positions. His ability to play almost anywhere was a huge selling point for the Broncos.
The signing of Glasgow makes it less likely that free agent center Connor McGovern returns. Glasgow has started 47 of his last 48 games. He played every snap in 2017 and 2018 at center, and 81 percent at right guard last season as part of a quasi-rotation. He was motivated to leave after his role last season. Multiple former NFL offensive lineman told Denver7 Glasgow was a "good player," stressing his reliability and ability to play multiple positions, if necessary.
The Broncos could address center in the draft if McGovern, as expected, departs. That would leave the following projected starters: left tackle Garett Bolles, left guard Dalton Risner, center, right guard Glasgow and right tackle Ja'wuan James. James was limited to 63 snaps last year because of an MCL tear in his left knee. If he returns healthy, it would help solidify a group that ended the season littered with questions. The Broncos also placed a second-round tender on Elijah Wilkinson, who projects as a backup tackle and guard.
Denver continues looking to beef up its defensive line in free agency with eyes on the likes of D.J. Reader and Michael Pierce. This story will be updated.
