Denver Broncos sign WR Brandon Stokley

Stokley played with Manning from 2003 to 2006 while with the Colts. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos on Monday signed wide receiver Brandon Stokley, according to NFL Network‘s Jason La Canfora.  Terms of the one-year deal are not known, but it is likely that Stokley signed a veteran minimum contract.

Stokley, who is about to turn 36, has made a name for himself in the NFL as a clutch slot receiver and if he makes Denver’s roster, that is likely the role that he will fill for the Broncos this season.  At the very least, Stokley will provide a familiar target for quarterback Peyton Manning in training camp and help the young receivers on Denver’s roster learn the new offense and routes that come with it.

A thirteen year veteran, Stokley (6-0, 192 lbs.), has spent time with five different teams since 1999 and has won a pair of Super Bowl rings along the way (2000 Ravens and 2007 Colts).  In March, Stokley, who lives in the Denver area, ran routes for Manning, who was visiting the Broncos.  Stokley later helped the team recruit the veteran quarterback.

Stokley spent time in Denver from 2007 to 2009, catching five touchdown passes in 2007.  In 2009, Stokley made a game-winning play that the team’s official website has dubbed “one of the most spectacular plays in club history.”

Earlier today, Manning told the media following the team’s first organized workouts of the offseason that he would support any decision by the management to “add good football players to this team,” when asked about the possibility of Stokley signing with the team.  In 2004, Stokley caught 68 passes from Manning for 1,077 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Stokley is a great player to have in the locker room and is a fan favorite in Denver.  There’s lots to love about this feel-good signing.