Terrence Knighton became yet another free agent to leave the Denver Broncos Thursday afternoon. The six-year veteran defensive tackle agreed to a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
Knighton, a team captain in 2014, was hoping to stay with the Broncos but the team made it clear that they were looking to their deep, youthful roster in 2015. Multiple sources report that Knighton’s deal is for $4 million with a $2 million signing bonus.
Knighton was vital in the defenses’ improvement and many of his teammates raved about his impact throughout the season. Sylvester Williams and Marvin Austin Jr. will be the primary defensive lineman that will be called on to replace Knighton.
It seemed that Knighton was looking for a larger salary, upwards of $7 million a year, and longer terms but the market dictated that he settle with Washington. After two seasons helping former defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio turn the Broncos into a legitimate run-stopping defense he will take his skill set and sometimes reported, 380-plus pound frame to the NFC East.
Right around the time Knighton was agreeing to his deal Thursday the Broncos agreed to terms of a two-year, $4 million contract with veteran defensive end Vance Walker.
Walker, formerly of the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders and most recently the Kansas City Chiefs in 2014, is a versatile lineman that appears to fit the mold of what defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is looking for. He can play end, three-technique or five-technique.
Walker played in a limited role in 2014 and only exceeded 25 snaps in a game in weeks 15 and 16, after playing in 791 snaps for the Raiders in 2013, per Pro Football Focus. He will add some needed depth as the Broncos begin to transition to a 3-4 defense. However, he has been spotty at best and will have to compete with a deep group in order to see significant playing time.
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