The Denver Broncos brought in former Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman Brandon Shell for a free agent visit earlier this week, sparking speculation that he might be the team’s short-term fix at right tackle. ESPN even reported that Shell was poised to sign with the team.
It was a bit of a surprise, then, when the Broncos agreed to terms with Billy Turner on a one-year deal on Thursday evening.
So, what happened?
Apparently, Turner had an under-the-radar visit in Denver last week before Shell, according to KUSA-TV’s Mike Klis. Turner spent the last three seasons with the Green Bay Packers under new Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett and offensive coordinator Justin Outten.
Klis believes Turner’s familiarity with Denver’s offensive scheme was likely the deciding factor in the Broncos’ decision to sign him over Shell.
Broncos were deciding between Seattle’s Brandon Shell and Packers’ Billy Turner for RT. In the end, it likelely came down to Turner spent past 3 years with Hackett/Outten in GB zone blocking system. #9sports https://t.co/sjoYhLS1lO
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) March 25, 2022
Turner played in Denver from 2016-2018, primarily as a backup swing guard/tackle. He was a fill-in starter at right tackle for four games in 2018 and a fill-in starter for seven games at left guard that season.
Turner has played every position on the offensive line except center, and that versatility could prove to be valuable for the Broncos. He started 13 games at right tackle for the Packers last year and has started 68 games in his career.
Turner was penalized three times and allowed three sacks in 2021.
Denver previously signed Calvin Anderson and Tom Compton to one-year contracts. Turner now becomes a third option in the mix at right tackle, and given his experience and familiarity with the offense, he will likely be the favorite to win the starting job.
Even after bringing in Turner, the Broncos might still consider adding a long-term right tackle prospect in the NFL draft next month.
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