Defensive Tackle Thomas Signs with Broncos

Thomas will stay a Denver Bronco, for at least one more season. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Broncos defensive tackle Marcus Thomas will be returning for a fifth season in Denver.  The unrestricted free agent has just signed a one-year deal with the club, per Fox31’s Josina Anderson, who broke the story.

A former Florida Gator, Thomas was drafted by the Broncos in 2007.  His role on the defensive line steadily decreased up until last season, when the twenty-five year old took on a rotational role.  This season, it is expected Thomas will compete to become the starting defensive tackle lining up alongside Kevin Vickerson, who impressed Denver last year.

Thomas played in all sixteen games last season (starting two) and recorded 35 tackles, and a sack.  Bringing him back gives the Broncos more depth in the middle of the defensive line and a veteran presence who knows the 4-3 defense.

“We’re excited about the scheme that John Fox is running, it will give Marcus Thomas a chance to reach his potential and do what he does best which is penetrate to get up field to cause chaos in the backfield,” said Thomas’ agent, Richard Burnoski.  “He’s been the most productive defensive tackle in Denver playing in a system that didn’t fit his skill-set. Ultimately, we’ve always considered Thomas a starter, it was just important for him to be compensated as such. As always he’s excited to be a Denver Bronco.”

This is great for the status of the Broncos defensive tackle position — more on that to come later this evening.