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Broncos sign linebacker Mark Barron to one-year deal

Veteran provides depth, strong coverage ability
Posted at 2:47 PM, Aug 30, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-30 16:47:47-04

DENVER -- Seeking depth and experience at a position where they have been compromised by injuries, the Broncos signed linebacker Mark Barron to a one-year deal Sunday.

Barron brings skills befitting a hybrid safety-linebacker. Though the Broncos only have five more practices this week before entering preparation for the season opener against the Titans, Barron could land a coverage role in nickel personnel.

The 30-year-old played for the Steelers a year ago, posting 82 tackles in 15 games with one interception. Barron adds to the Alabama flavor of the Broncos' roster. After not having a Crimson Tide player for years, Denver boasts three in safety Kareem Jackson and rookie receiver Jerry Jeudy.

Barron and Jackson played together in college. The Broncos were motivated to make a move following Todd Davis' left calf injury and the season-ending wrist surgery for promising rookie Justin Strnad. The hope remains that Davis will return to practice this week as he has increased his activity in recent days. Strnad was bidding to play in coverage, and Barron boasts this ability, especially against tight ends.

In his career, Barron, who spent the first three seasons of his career as a strong safety, owns nine career interceptions. He visited the Broncos last week and underwent COVID-19 testing before his signing was announced.