Just yesterday, I posted a list of my top 10 players still available in NFL Free Agency, but according to a report by ESPN’s John Clayton, Tracy Porter, the no.6 player on my list, has now signed a one-year deal worth an estimated $4 million with the Denver Broncos.
This move is filled with irony, as it was Porter, who intercepted Peyton Manning late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLIV and returned it for a touchdown to seal the Saints 31-17 victory over the Colts.
Now, Porter will join Manning, the new starting quarterback in Denver, as the Broncos begin the process of building a contending team around their new star player.
Porter is a solid addition to a defensive backfield that already boasts pro bowlers Champ Bailey and Brian Dawkins. In four season in New Orleans, he played in 43 games, starting 39 and totaling seven career interceptions, including a career-high total of four in the 2009 season.
Last season, Porter played in 14 games but managed just one interception. However, he is a proven cover corner and starting corners are not always easy to find. The deal Porter signed reflects the fact that the first wave of free agency has now come and gone, meaning most of the big money deals are now gone. Yet, this deal will give Porter a chance to prove himself again next season and attempt build some momentum before hitting the open market again next offseason.
The signing is the second in as many days for the Broncos, who on Thursday, signed former Bengals wide receiver Andre Caldwell to a one-year deal. Caldwell is a former 3rd-round pick of the Bengals and last season had 37 receptions for 317 yards and three touchdowns. In four season as a pro, he has totaled 124 catches with a career yard per catch average of 9.6. He also has six career touchdown receptions. He figures to fit in as a backup wide receiver and also will be expected to contribute on special teams.
