Justin

Bannan

The moves clear roughly $6.5 million in cap space. Robbins was due $3.75 million in 2012 after notching 29 tackles and one sack in 497 snaps last season. He graded out as the 18th best defensive tackle in the league by Pro Football Focus, and is just one year removed from a six-sack campaign. Signed to a three-year deal last July, Bannan notched 32 tackles in 15 games.

The Broncos were desperate for a veteran presence up front after losing Brodrick Bunkley to the Saints. Turning 33 next week, Bannan is still an asset as an early-down run stuffer. Denver will still target a defensive line prospect or two in the draft. Bannan’s signing allows more flexibility in the first round, however.

Bannan played in Denver under Josh McDaniels two years ago. The Broncos are in need of defensive tackle help with Marcus Thomas weighing offers from three teams and Brodrick Bunkley now in New Orleans.

The Chargers are searching for veteran depth, and coach Mike McCoy got to see Bannan up close and personal in Denver last season. Heading into his age-34 campaign, Bannan still does a good job of tying up multiple blockers.

“This is my home. This is where our family has settled,” said the 33-year-old Bannan. “I take a lot of pride in this city.” Leonhard, 30, called the Broncos the most talented team he’s ever been on. Fellow free agent MLB Keith Brooking hasn’t thought about the 2013 season.

The defensive tackle position in John Fox’s 4-3 scheme doesn’t get the glamour, but it’s a key position. Vickerson, Bannan and Mitch Unrein tied up blockers, thus allowing Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil to wreak havoc. Expect the Broncos to bring back one of their incumbents while also looking to add talent to the position.

Bannan, 34, played 29 snaps the first three weeks after being signed in mid-August. The 13-year veteran is nearing the end of the line.

It will be Bannan’s first visit of free agency. The Chargers were reportedly interested in the 34-year-old last month, but nothing came of it. Bannan started 15 games for the Broncos last season, recording 42 tackles.

Bannan, 34, visited the Lions nearly a month ago. He started 15 games for Denver last season, racking up 42 tackles. Bannan will provide veteran depth.

Bannan was considered a key signing last offseason but produced no sacks and just 15 stops. The team is counting on him to be its third tackle in 2007.