Henry Melton to Broncos: Latest Contract Details, Comments, Reaction

Looking to boost their depth on the defensive line, the Denver Broncos have agreed to sign Henry Melton. 

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the news Sunday.

Melton posted a picture of himself signing the contract on Instagram:

The Broncos needed help on the defensive line after losing Vance Walker for the season to a torn ACL on Monday.

Jared Crick will likely move up to start in Walker's spot, but the Broncos know their depth up front is not as secure as it was last season, when they won the Super Bowl. Malik Jackson, who started all 16 games in 2015, signed a huge contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

Melton was once an impactful defensive tackle, particularly with the Chicago Bears in 2011 and 2012, when he recorded a total of 13 sacks. Injuries and inconsistent play over the last three seasons have dropped his stock to the point where he was unable to secure a free-agent contract for nearly six months before Sunday. 

Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus painted the most optimistic picture at this stage of Melton's career:

Despite concerns about depth on the defensive line, the Broncos should have one of the best defenses in the NFL again. Von Miller is one of the most dynamic pass-rushers off the edge, and DeMarcus Ware can be an effective third-down pass-rusher if he stays healthy. The secondary is also loaded with talent. 

Melton is a low-risk investment at this stage of the preseason. If he takes to defensive coordinator Wade Phillips' scheme, it would be a boost to Denver's defense. If he doesn't, it can release him without any significant repercussions.