Stokley: ‘Makes sense” for Broncos to make sure they re-sign Paradis
Jan 18, 2019, 5:55 PM | Updated: 11:56 pm
Consistently one of the highest graded centers in the NFL, and one of the most durable players on the Broncos roster, Matt Paradis has gone from sixth-round draft pick to a staple on the Denver offensive line.
And despite coming off a fractured fibula that ended his season, and his consecutive snaps streak, in Week 9 in 2018, Paradis should remain a top priority to retain this offseason, said “Stokley and Zach” co-host Brandon Stokley.
“That’s a guy that I think that they should prioritize and make sure that they get him back,” Stokley said. “The offensive line’s been a mess. Your center’s been one of those glue pieces. And he’s played at a high level. You want to keep that guy around.”
Paradis, who is set to be an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career in March, ranks 14th on ESPN’s top 50 free agents list, the highest at his position and the second-highest offensive lineman.
According to Pro Football Focus, before landing on injured reserve Paradis was the second-highest graded center in the NFL.
And while Connor McGovern did a “decent job filling in” for the injured Paradis, Stokley said, the center was sorely missed at times down the stretch for the Broncos.
“Matt Paradis is one of your, if not the best linemen that you have. So, it would be tough losing him,” Stokley said. “Who’s the guy that’s going to take over? I mean, are you going to count on Connor McGovern taking over for you full time at center?
“I don’t think it’s going to cost you a ton to pay Matt Paradis. And you have a lot of cap room. I think it makes sense to make sure that you get Matt Paradis done.”
Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.
