By Jordan Long
The Denver Broncos had a decision to make this weekend on their defensive line. They had two key free agents still out there in Derek Wolfe and Shelby Harris. Denver decided to keep Shelby Harris and let Wolfe go. Wolfe ended up agreeing to a contract with the Baltimore Ravens.
Harris had a career year in Broncos’ defensive coordinator Ed Donatell’s defense. He was able to pressure the quarterbacks. This forced them to throw the football quicker than they wanted to or Harris brought them down for sacks with 6. Harris could knock the ball down at the line so passes weren’t completed with 9 passes defended.
When it came to defending the run, Harris made sure there wasn’t a hole for the running backs to run through. When he had his chance, he tackled them for a loss or a short gain. Harris ended up with 49 tackles.
In free agency, Harris was hoping to find a long-term contract. He was willing to come back to Denver but wanted to see what the market value for him was. Teams for whatever reason were shying away from him. It could have been the fact defensive line was not a need for their franchise. Denver decided to bring Harris back agreeing to a 1-year contract worth $2.5 million in guaranteed money. He can make up to $3.25 million with incentives.
According to NBCsports.com, Harris said, “Well, after the numbers weren’t what we wanted, I felt like let’s do another year, prove it to prove I can do it again and be able to hit the market again next year or re-up with the Broncos. Just another chance to go prove myself.”
This is a great move for Denver. Harris has a chance to keep growing in Donatell’s defense. It also lets Harris show last year wasn’t a fluke. If his numbers improve this upcoming season, Denver may have to sign him to a long-term contract so he can possibly retire as a member of the Denver Broncos.
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