Report: Denver Broncos Reached Out To Ryan Lilja About Return
Oct 28, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs center Ryan Lilja (65) on the sidelines against the Oakland Raiders in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Oakland won the game 26-16. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
If Kansas City Chiefs fans were looking for another reason to dislike the Denver Broncos, John Elway just gave them one.
According to Alex Marvez of Fox Sports, the Donks reached out to former Chiefs G/C, Ryan Lilja, about coming out of retirement.
"FOX Sports has learned that center/guard Ryan Lilja is contemplating an offer from the Broncos.Lilja, 31, announced his retirement last December following his third season with the Kansas City Chiefs. Lilja started 59 games for the Manning-led Indianapolis Colts at guard from 2004-09. Lilja played center with the Chiefs in 2012.Lilja’s potential addition would come on the heels of the season-ending knee injury suffered Sunday by Broncos center Dan Koppen during training camp practice. Koppen was replacing starting center J.D. Walton, who is sidelined until at least October following offseason ankle surgery. The Broncos shifted Manny Ramirez from guard to center in subsequent practices.Lilja’s agent, Craig Domann, was unavailable for comment."
The Chiefs were reportedly interested in Lilja coming out of retirement as well. Adam Teicher, of the Kansas City Star, reported as much weeks ago.
I have figured that if Lilja was going to come out of retirement, he would likely wait until some time closer to the end of training camp. Veterans often like to try to avoid the dorm living and heat of summer practices.
The Chiefs could use Lilja. The interior of their line still has some big question marks. Rodney Hudson is virtually untested at center and Jeff Allen was less than spectacular at guard last season. Lilja would provide some excellent veteran leadership, reliability and depth. He may not be a Pro Bowl player but he is solid.
Lilja’s history of decent play is probably why the Broncos are reaching out to him too. He’s likely one of the best interior lineman available and if Denver is not sure about their line, Lilja would be an excellent one-year option.
What do you think, Addicts? Will Lilja return to KC or Denver? Or will he stay retired?