Mitch

Unrein

Unrein signed a three-year deal with the Bucs last offseason but never appeared in a game with the team after suffering a concussion in training camp. He’s still not healthy, putting his playing career in obvious doubt. The Bucs create $2.75 million in cap space with the move.

This was an expected move. Unrein will be eligible to return Week 9. Snapper of longer than normal snaps Garrison Sanborn was re-signed in a corresponding move.

Carter, the Broncos’ No. 3 corner, was a nice surprise in 2012. He played in 15 games, recording 27 tackles, 12 pass deflections, and two interceptions. Carter could generate some interest in restricted free agency next offseason. Unrein appeared in all 16 games and registered 20 tackles.

Unrein, 26, appeared in all 16 games last season, starting twice. He recorded 20 tackles as a top reserve, and he’ll fill the same role in 2013. Ideally, the Broncos will add more depth behind starters Kevin Vickerson and Terrance Knighton.

Unrein appeared in eight games last season, playing 46 snaps. He appeared in all 16 games from 2011-13. The Broncos need reserve heft with Terrance Knighton walking in free agency.

They also re-upped exclusive rights free agents CB Tony Carter, SS Duke Ihenacho, and LB Brandon Marshall to minimum salary deals. Unrein, 27, tallied 20 tackles as a reserve defensive tackle last season, and also has value as a short-yardage fullback. He’s a versatile role player.

It’s the lowest possible RFA tender, and values at $1.431 million. It’s a good contract offer for Unrein, a special teamer and reserve who can double at fullback and defensive tackle. He should sign on the dotted line quickly.

Unrein was released by the Chargers earlier on Thursday. Unrein spent the past four years playing for coach John Fox in Denver. He provides depth for Chicago’s shaky line.

Unrein gives the Chargers veteran depth. He can play both defensive line and fullback in a pinch. Unrein will be counted on for a bigger role with San Diego after being limited to eight games last season. Unrein should get the majority of his snaps as an end in DC John Pagano’s 3-4 scheme.

Unrein was limited to eight games (46 snaps) as a rotational lineman last season. He has ties to Chargers HC Mike McCoy, and could provide depth at defensive end in San Diego’s 3-4 scheme. A career backup, Unrein should be available for the veteran minimum.