CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- Coach Vance Joseph believes competition creates better players and a stronger team.
On the eve of training camp, the Broncos added depth as a reminder to Max Garcia nothing is guaranteed in this league. Garcia enters as the starting left guard. However, the Broncos acquired veteran Allen Barbre for a conditional 2019 seventh-round draft pick on Wednesday. Barbre arrives in Denver to compete for the left guard spot. If he doesn't make the team, the Broncos would not surrender the draft pick.
Barbre, 33, started 28 games over the past two seasons as Philadelphia's top left guard. He has experience at tackle as well, leaving him a candidate to make the team in a utility role. Michael Schofield is also in that mix.
Garcia began the offseason as the Broncos' starting right guard. But in the last week of OTAs, the coaches moved Garcia to the left side after consulting with veteran Ron Leary. Leary agreed to the switch, explaining "it is an adjustment, but I am team guy." A former standout at Florida, Garcia has started 21 games over the past two seasons. He has shown flashes, while struggling with consistency.
As it stands, the Broncos figure to boast three new starters on the offensive line: Leary, right tackle Menelik Watson, and possibly rookie left tackle Garett Bolles.
