Marcus

Thomas

Thomas, one of the better defensive tackles left on the decimated market, has also reportedly drawn “serious offers” from two more teams. Thomas is a two-down run defender. Denver is serious about bringing him back after losing Brodrick Bunkley, who played a similar role in the Broncos’ defense last year.

Denver previously had a one-year contract offer on the table, but it appears to have been pulled. Thomas wants a multi-year commitment. According to the Denver Post, “at least two other teams” have significant interest in the 26-year-old, but are planning to wait until after June 1 to pursue Thomas.

Thomas’ first priority is a long-term deal. If he’s only seeing one-year offers from all three teams, including the Broncos, he wants to better evaluate his playing-time possibilities after rosters become more clear in early May.

The Broncos are open to a one-year pact, but he’s “focused on receiving a long-term deal.” Anderson reports the sides “may be open to start negotiations again later.” Thomas has supposedly drawn “serious offers” from two other teams, but hasn’t lined up any known visits since the start of free agency. He’s likely overplaying his hand, and the smart money is on him returning to Denver on a one-year deal.

The release of Thomas might be a sign that the Giants’ banged-up defensive front is on the mend. Chris Canty (knee), Shaun Rogers (leg) and Marvin Austin (back) are all in doubt for Week 1. Broha has been asked to join the practice squad.

Thomas has generated little league-wide interest since turning down a one-year offer to re-up with the Broncos in May. The Giants are dealing with multiple injuries at defensive tackle, one to Marvin Austin and a season-ender to Shaun Rogers. Thomas is a 26-year-old run stuffer. He could help in a rotation.

A capable rotational veteran, Thomas is a quality signing so late in camp for a team growing desperate for depth. Although DT Marvin Austin expressed confidence in his back, coach Tom Coughlin isn’t prepared to rule out structural damage. Starter Chris Canty (knee) remains without a timetable for a return.

Rookies Tim Crowder and Marcus Thomas were listed with the twos. Sam Adams and Gerard Warren were the starting defensive tackles. Veteran defensive linemen Kenard Lang and Alvin McKinley dropped to third string.

Thomas was one of the best players on Florida’s eventual national championship team last season before getting kicked off for breaking team rules. He had first-round talent, but many teams were scared away. He’s likely to be inactive early in the season, but has tremendous potential as a pass-rushing tackle.

Adams can earn an additional $250,000 if Denver makes it to the playoffs and wins a game. The 33-year-old will compete with Demetrin Veal to start opposite Gerard Warren with rookie Marcus Thomas coming off the bench.