The Denver Broncos just improved their chances of reaching the Super Bowl by signing a veteran offensive lineman that could provide some much-needed help for quarterback Peyton Manning.

We knew going into the off-season that the offensive line  play of the Broncos was going to have to improve significantly if the Broncos had any chance of getting back to the Super Bowl. When Pro Bowl tackle Ryan Clady when down earlier this summer with a season-ending injury, things didn't look promising.

With  rookies Ty Sambrailo and Max Garcia starting on the left side, the question marks surrounding the Broncos' offensive line got even bigger. While there is still plenty of youth on the line, the signing of veteran guard Evan Mathis should provide some immediate stability to the offensive line --and an increased level of comfort for Peyton Manning.

According to the Denver Post, the 33-year-old Mathis could make up to $4 million this season on a one-year deal. If the Broncos win the Super Bowl it will be a worthwhile investment and make John Elway look like a complete genius. Remember when they asked Peyton Manning to take a $4 million pay cut?

Mathis, a two-time Pro Bowl selection was cut by the Philadelphia Eagles in a contract dispute. He could have probably made twice as much money elsewhere, but reportedly wanted to play for a contender.

To make room for Mathis on the roster, and probably to help pay his salary, the Broncos released kicker, Connor Barth.

Keeping Peyton Manning upright with clear passing lanes, and opening up holes for the new Broncos rushing attack will be the key to how far the Broncos go this season. You can't help but feel the addition of Mathis might just be the one key ingredient Denver needed to get back to the big game.

 

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