Being a Bronco, a Coloradan and a having happy family won out in Matt Lepsis’ world as opposed to entering the high-glamour, no-guarantee existence of free agency.
“To me, that’s worth millions,” Lepsis said. “Ultimately my family decided this is where we wanted to be, and it just wasn’t worth going to free agency for a few more million dollars. This is the place for me.”
Thursday morning – with the uncertain future of the collective bargaining agreement hanging over the league – the standout left tackle and his family closed the door on the outside NFL world and decided he would accept Denver’s offer. A meeting with Broncos coach Mike Shanahan later confirmed Lepsis’ decision, and he accepted a deal that could keep the team’s top free-agent priority in town for the next four years.
Lepsis’ signing comes on the heels of a salary cap bloodletting by the Broncos on Wednesday, when they cut defensive end Trevor Pryce, running back Mike Anderson and tight end Jeb Putzier to save about $15 million.
Now the team is focused on re-signing defensive tackle Gerard Warren and running back Ron Dayne. The Broncos received a counteroffer from Dayne’s agents Thursday and remained in contact with Warren’s agent.
The Broncos also are trying to trade for New York Jets defensive end John Abraham, according to a source familiar with the negotiations. The Broncos likely would have to give up one of their first-round picks to get the pass-rushing ace.
The Broncos had initial talks with the Jets about Abraham last week at the NFL combine. Denver is one of perhaps four teams interested in Abraham, including Washington, Houston and possibly Cleveland.
No deal is likely to be reached until the CBA negotiation is resolved. But a trade could happen in the next two weeks. The Broncos would have to clear more cap room to sign Abraham.
While Abraham might be in the Broncos’ future, Lepsis made sure he will be. He is scheduled to get $25 million over the life of his contract and will earn $9 million in 2006, including option and roster bonuses.
Lepsis’ new deal saves Denver about $1 million against the salary cap, putting the team about $2 million under, but it can get more relief with the finalization of a new agreement for defensive end Courtney Brown and possibly with Warren.
Lepsis likely would have earned more money in free agency. Houston and Miami were interested. Lepsis said he initially was waiting to see how the CBA played out, but changed his mind.
Green Bay could make a run at Warren in free agency, which is scheduled to begin Monday. Cutting Pryce was a sign the Broncos chose re-signing Warren over keeping Pryce. Warren flourished last season after being traded by Cleveland.
“We all hope he stays in Denver, and so does Gerard,” said Charles Warren, the player’s father. “That was the best I’ve seen him play since college. He really was comfortable in Denver.”
The agent for long-snapper Mike Leach reiterated that his client is likely going to stay with the Broncos and hopes to finalize a long-term contract. Linebacker Keith Burns also is expected to sign.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
