DENVER -- Earl Mitchell ate with the Broncos on Wednesday night, and chewed on the idea of signing with Denver. The free agent defensive tackle fits on many levels. He knows coach Vance Joseph, who is on record praising Mitchell's energy and effort last season in Miami. He played for defensive line coach Bill Kollar in Houston, where he excelled and earned his first free agent windfall with the Dolphins.
Mitchell, 29, projects as a rotational player with the strength to help against the run and the versatility to produce a push upfield. He began last season on injured reserve with a lingering calf injury. However, he returned in November and played his best game against the San Diego Chargers. Mitchell played in nine games, started five, and finished with 18 tackles.
Mitchell was expected to continue his free agent tour in Atlanta. Four teams are vying for Mitchell, who has visited Seattle, San Francisco and Denver. Mitchell has averaged 34 snaps per game the past two seasons. Because he is a street free agent, Mitchell can sign at anytime.
Even if the Broncos add Mitchell, they would continue to look to bolster their defensive line either through free agency or the draft.
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