Russell Okung signed a five-year, $53 million deal with the Denver Broncos last year, but after just one year he’s been let go by the franchise.
Another strong tackle option appears headed to free agency as the broncos have informed Russell Okung they will not be picking up his option
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) February 23, 2017
The deal included no guaranteed money, and it was brokered by Okung himself, who decided to go without an agent (more on that here).
In the end, Okung walked away from Denver after having earned $8 million for his services in 2016. Not a bad haul, if we’re being honest.
He now enters a free agent market that isn’t exactly loaded with talent at the offensive tackle position.
Okung isn’t an elite talent, but he certainly can help out a team in need of help at the offensive tackle position. He is better run blocker than he is at taking on pass rushers on the edge, but he’s still serviceable on passing downs.
The former first-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks could potentially find his way back home, given Seattle’s deficit at this position.
There are plenty of other teams lacking depth and talent, so Okung will likely find his services in high demand. The upcoming 2017 NFL Draft is also light on top talent at this premier position, so teams will likely be overpaying for tackles this March.