CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- Full pads create a comprehensive evaluation.
Nowhere does this apply more than along the Broncos' offensive line. The group underwent a makeover for the second straight offseason and could feature as many as three new starters in right guard Ron Leary, right tackle Menelik Watson and possibly left tackle Garett Bolles.
Finding stability is critical. The return of Pro Bowl alternate Matt Paradis should help. However, Paradis will begin training camp under restrictions following his offseason recovery from surgery on both hips. Paradis is expected to be eased back into the fold with reps potentially increasing as camp advances.
Paradis has not missed a snap in two seasons. He has developed a reputation for toughness and dependability. Having Paradis practice regularly, which didn't happen the majority of last season because of the pain in his hips, could help accelerate the development of the quarterbacks. Paradis enjoys the responsibility of making calls for the linemen, and serves as a second set of eyes for Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch.
Leary told Denver7 he's looking forward to working with Paradis, whose spot was occupied by Connor McGovern during the offseason.
"We have a group that's really prideful. They weren't happy with how things went last year at all. We have been working with a new line coach (Jeff Davidson). Matt's healthy now, so that's big. I think we are going to be good. But it's going to take work," Leary said. "I just know we have a chip on our shoulders."
Enjoy this content? Follow Denver7 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and download the Denver7 app on iOS and Android devices for continual access to breaking news, weather and sports.
Want Broncos news? Denver7 Broncos insider Troy E. Renck is your source. He talks to the players, covers the games and reports scoops on Denver7 and the Denver7 app. He is a CU grad who has covered pro sports in Colorado since 1996, including 14 years at The Denver Post. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and TheDenverChannel.com’s Broncos page. Troy welcomes most of your emails at Troy.Renck@kmgh.com.