The Denver Broncos used a fourth-round pick in last month’s NFL draft to select Boise State left tackle Kage Casey. Fittingly, after arriving in Denver, Casey picked jersey No. 78, which was worn by fellow Boise State product Ryan Clady during his decorated career with the Broncos.
“Ryan Clady,” Casey said at rookie minicamp when asked why he picked No. 78. “It’s a pretty good number. I’ve met him once three years ago at my first LA Bowl.”
Casey, like Clady, played left tackle for college football’s Broncos, but he might end up serving as a backup swing guard/tackle in the NFL.
“He’s got flex, so guard/tackle flex,” coach Sean Payton said of the rookie lineman. “He is one of those guys who we felt could do a lot and even go inside and play center. I think we are working him in at guard and tackle.”
At rookie minicamp, Casey said told media members he had spoken to left tackle Garett Bolles, right guard Quinn Meinerz and right tackle Mike McGlinchey, who were “really helpful” with the playbook. He’s already been studying film of his new teammates, too.
“Playing tackle, I’ve watched Garett a lot and bumping to guard, I’ve been watching a ton of tape on Quinn and Ben [Powers],” Casey said. “It’s been really helpful.”
Casey will work closely with offensive line coach Chris Morgan and offensive run game coordinator/assistant head coach Zach Strief, who won a Super Bowl as an offensive lineman under Payton with the New Orleans Saints.
“It’s awesome working under him,” Casey said when asked about Strief. “The way he describes all the techniques and plays makes it so seamless, and I can just learn so much faster.”
Clady earned four Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro nods during his career with the Broncos, and while he was injured during the 2015 season, Clady received a Super Bowl ring after the club won Super Bowl 50. Clady was one of the best left tackles in franchise history, and Casey will now aim to follow in his footsteps as the new No. 78.
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