Evan Mathis

As we get set to hit the NFL offseason, we're breaking down the Denver Broncos top free agent players

Overview: 

When discussing the Broncos’ top free agents, Evan Mathis normally get’s left out of the conversation. Instead, all the focus has been on Brock Osweiler and the defensive side of the ball.

But Mathis isn’t chopped liver.

On a bad offensive line, Mathis was far and away the Broncos’ best blocker, particularly in the run game, and losing him for next season would definitely hurt. Even if he was more of a hired killer for the season, he’s still a solid, solid guard in the NFL.

Plan Of Action:

Really, it all comes down to cost. With so many other guys up for auction, Mathis is the least of the Broncos’ concerns. Entering his mid-thirties, there’s not much upside, either.

That said, if Mathis really wants to play for a contender again, maybe he takes a discount to comeback to Denver.

Price Range: $5 million/year

At $5 million, Mathis would be getting paid like a top-15 guard in the NFL; that’s asking an awful lot.

Maybe Mathis is still a top-15 guard, but I’m not so sure the Broncos can afford that, especially if they’re still paying Louis Vasquez $6.75 million (6th-most amongst all guards) next season.