Broncos Bolster Tight End Depth by Signing Ex-Seahawk Nick Vannett
By Jack Murphy
The Denver Broncos ended the 2019 season on a high note, winning four of their last five games of the season after deciding to roll with Drew Lock under center. As they look to be competitive in the AFC West for the first time since the Peyton Manning days, John Elway acquired some extra depth at tight end via free agency.
The Broncos have reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with former Seattle Seahawks tight end Nick Vannett.
Source: The #Broncos have signed former #Steelers and #Seahawks TE Nick Vannett on a 2-year deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 21, 2020
Vannett joins a crowded tight end group with Noah Fant, Jeff Heuerman and Troy Fumagalli. It will be a reunion for Vannett and Heuerman, who played college ball together at Ohio State.
Vannett recorded 17 receptions, and 166 yards last season, spending time in both Seattle and Pittsburgh. In 13 games for the Steelers, the 27-year-old caught 13 passes for 128 yards. While he may not have a huge role in the passing game, he will certainly be useful as a blocker on goal line stands and short yard conversions on a young Broncos offense.
Broncos now have their dangerous receiving TE in Noah Fant and their dominant blocking TE in Nick Vannett.
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) March 21, 2020
The Broncos have been mediocre for the last few seasons, but with Lock under center and Melvin Gordon added to the backfield, that may change soon.
While Vannett is not going to wow anybody with elite production, he could prove to be a cost effective signing for an improving football team.