More free agent signings coming in Denver?

Amobi Okoye seen during the 2011 season. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Things have slowed down in Dove Valley and it has been quiet on the free agency front, but the team may not be done bringing in players.  On Monday, Denver Broncos General Manager Brian Xanders said “we’re not done” signing free agents — yet.

Since then, the team has re-signed exclusive rights free agent punter Britton Colquitt and have been courting defensive tackles Marcus Thomas (6-3, 316), Justin Bannan (6-3, 312) and Amobi Okoye (6-2, 292).  The team is obviously trying to fill a gaping hole at the DT position on the roster.

Thomas, who says he’ll sign with Denver “whenever they call me“, is presumably playing the waiting game with Denver’s front office.  The Broncos say they want Thomas to come back and he says he wants to come back.  So what’s the hold up?

Most likely the money is slowing down contract talks.  Denver probably made Thomas an offer that he didn’t feel it “implied that the team appreciated him and wanted him to return,” as Thomas’ agent would probably say.  So now, both sides play the waiting game.  

Denver probably won’t be the one to give in because they have other options (Bannan, Okoye and the draft) while Thomas reportedly has interest from two other teams.  As the draft draws closer, the longer Thomas doesn’t sign with another team may indicate that he is willing to come back to Denver.

Bannan, who started all sixteen games in Denver during the 2010 season, is about to turn thirty-three but has been productive over the past two seasons.  Bannan visited the Broncos on Thursday after starting in fourteen games with the St. Louis Rams last season.

Okoye, whom Denver remains interested in, reportedly may sign with a team soon.  The twenty-four year old Okoye has drawn interest from the Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Broncos.  

Okoye played for the Chicago Bears last season (playing in sixteen games, starting one) and is exploring his options.  In his career (five seasons), Okoye has recorded 165 tackles, 15.0 sacks and 2 forced fumbles.

Denver may solidify the defensive tackle position with a depth signing this weekend or in the near future.  Stay tuned.