The Denver Broncos signed defensive tackle Phil Taylor on Monday. The move comes amid worries that Denver’s all-star defensive cast may have become too expensive to keep together.
With Super Bowl MVP Von Miller likely commanding a huge salary and Malik Jackson looking for a big pay day of his own, the Broncos may be seeking out some insurance.
Source: the Broncos signed former Browns first round pick DT Phil Taylor.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 22, 2016
Taylor was originally drafted in the first round by the Cleveland Browns in 2011. The 27-year-old, 6-foot-3 defensive lineman weighs in at 335 pounds and showed great promise early in his career.
During his time with the Browns he started 42-of-44 games played from 2011-14, totaled 109 tackles (69 solo), seven sacks, three passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
Taylor was cut by the Browns in September of 2015 after recovering from knee surgery. With the future of the Broncos defensive front so uncertain, and after a full season to recover from his injuries, the former Baylor University standout seems like a solid acquisition.
The Broncos have a knack for finding gold among free agents; hopefully Taylor turns out to be just as valuable next season.