Broncos, guard Holland agree to deal

Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News

Published March 4, 2007 at midnight

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When the Denver Broncos called to bring in Montrae Holland for a visit on the first day of free agency, the veteran offensive guard was taken aback somewhat.

This is an organization, after all, known for lighter, athletic offensive lineman. And at 6-foot-2, 322 pounds, he's a good deal heavier than the norm.

"It caught me by surprise," he admitted.

But after sitting down with Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, it all made sense.

"He told me the defensive tackles are getting bigger," Holland explained. "And they needed bigger guards that can hold up on the inside."

Denver, which will have a more pocket-oriented passer in Jay Cutler starting at quarterback next season, believes Holland can fit that description with aplomb. They've agreed with the 26-year old former New Orleans Saints player on a one-year, $1 million deal.

Holland, who can play either guard spot, has started 30 games since entering the league in 2003. He had been slated to top the depth chart again last season but needed knee surgery in training camp. Jamar Nesbit claimed the left guard job and played well enough that Holland couldn't reclaim the job.

In Denver, he's expected to compete with second-year player Chris Kuper for the right-guard spot vacated by Cooper Carlisle, who's a free agent and not expected back.

Holland said he was drawn to the organization by Shanahan's reputation for taking care of players and adding years to their career, plus, "The bottom line is they win."

Holland was one of the Saints strongest players. He can bench press 500 pounds. The big question will be whether he has the feet to succeed in Denver's zone-blocking scheme.

"I feel like I've played against some great players and know I can play the game," Holland said. "If I couldn't I wouldn't be here."

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