Brodrick Bunkley signs long-term deal with Saints

Bunkley in 2011. (AP Photo/Barry Gutierrez)

Brodrick Bunkley was perhaps the largest factor in the Denver Broncos‘ 2011 defensive turnaround, literally and figuratively.

He won’t be a Denver Bronco in 2012.

The freshly-suspended New Orleans Saints have signed Bunkley to a five-year deal worth $25 million, according to multiple reports.

The Broncos will have to add DT depth in the draft and free agency, as well as relying on Ty Warren to be healthy this year. Bunkley’s departure leaves the Broncos with a massive hole to fill.