The Denver Broncos are looking to strengthen their struggling offensive line through free agency.
With injuries affecting starting right tackle Mike McGlinchey, his backup Alex Palczewski, and versatile backup Quinn Bailey, the Broncos are bringing back a familiar player.
“According to sources, the Broncos are signing 11-year veteran OT Cam Fleming to their practice squad. Fleming started 20 games for the Broncos over the last three seasons,” reported Mike Klis of 9News on X on October 8. “Broncos center Luke Wattenberg and RT Alex Palczewski both left Sunday’s game against the Raiders with ankle injuries and did not return.”
Pro Football Focus rated Fleming with a grade of 59.4 for his performance in 2023.
However, Fleming earned a 71.7 (2021) and a 72.6 (2022) from PFF in the two years prior. He made 15 starts in 2022.
Fleming received grades of 71.7 in 2021 and 72.6 in 2022 from Pro Football Focus, making 15 starts during the latter year.
“Cam Fleming worked out for the Broncos last Thursday and is signing to the practice squad today. He provides invaluable depth as the offensive line is a bit banged up. LT Garett Bolles also missed four plays on Sunday due to a lower leg injury but returned to the game,” Klis mentioned in a follow-up post.
“Matt Peart played at both right and left tackle.”
Additionally, Denver signed former Chicago Bears and Houston Texans interior lineman Dieter Eiselen to the practice squad due to Wattenberg’s injury, according to KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson on October 8.
If Wattenberg can’t play, Alex Forsyth, who was a college teammate of Broncos QB Bo Nix, is expected to start in Week 7.
The Broncos’ desire to bring Fleming back for a fourth consecutive season began even before his workout in mid-September.
“I’ve heard from sources that the #Broncos have a strong interest in Cameron Fleming and would like to re-sign him,” reported Matt Lombardo of Between the Hashmarks on X in March. “However, a competitive market is emerging after he demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level last season, not allowing a sack in 126 snaps.”
Fleming, 32, was drafted in the fourth round by the New England Patriots, where he won Super Bowls in 2014 and 2016. Throughout his 10-year career, he has also played for the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. According to Spotrac, he has earned $18.6 million in his career.
His most recent contract with the Broncos was for one year and $2.5 million.
The Broncos still have undrafted rookie Frank Crum on the roster, who notably wears No. 73, the number previously worn by Fleming.
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