Gino Gradkowski passed a physical on Wednesday, .
A couple factors motivated to deal for the veteran: a desire to have a center who knows the zone blocking system and insurance to create flexibility in the upcoming draft.
For Gradkowski, it represents a reset button. He will compete for the Broncos’ starting job after playing only eight games last season, used primarily on special teams.
“(Last season) was very difficult for me, but I came out of it a better player and a better person. I have a chip on my shoulder now,” Gradkowski said. “I feel like I have a lot to prove and I can’t wait to get started with that.”
Gradkowski, however, will face competition from last year’s sixth-round draft choice Matt Paradis. Paradis spent last season on the Broncos’ practice squad. Gradkowski offers a potential low-risk, high-reward investment because none of his $1.542-million salary is guaranteed. Similar players in free agency would have required a signing bonus.
Gradkowski started in 2013, but struggled enough to prompt Baltimore to acquire Jeremy Zuttah from the Rams. Gradkowski learned the zone-blocking scheme in Gary Kubiak’s lone season as Baltimore’s offensive coordinator a year ago. The Broncos are banking on the system and improved health boosting Gradkowski’s play.
“I think (Kubiak) bringing in players he had before will help bring the other players along, so that’s a benefit, too,” Gradkowski said.
While the offense is familiar, his new quarterback offers a contrast. Peyton Manning and Joe Flacco represent distinctly different on-field personalities.
“It’s very exciting to get a chance to work with Peyton. He’s a guy I have grown up watching,” Gradkowski said. “I know he will make me a better player for sure.”
The Ravens found Gradkowski expendable, his salary and the team’s depth casting him as a potential roster casualty.
Wednesday, Denver traded for Gradkowski, in exchange for the Broncos’ fourth-round selection next year. He joined the Broncos after his surgically-repaired knee checked out fine on Thursday.
“I felt great all last year. I had my knee cleaned out after 2013 season. Going into camp I was feeling healthy,” Gradkowski said. “Right now I can’t wait to get started.”
Troy E. Renck: trenck@denverpost.com or
