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Denver Broncos | News

Vasquez Preparing for New Linemate

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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- **After adjusting to a new team and a new offensive system last year, guard Louis Vasquez was a named first-team All-Pro in 2013.

With just a new right tackle to adapt to in his second year in Denver, who knows what he could be capable of.

Former teammate and roommate at Texas Tech Manny Ramirez -- who helped Vasquez get comfortable last season -- is still on Vasquez's left at center. But with Orlando Franklin moving to the other guard spot, Vasquez is developing chemistry with those competing to play off his right shoulder.

"It's one of those things where you've got to get the feel for the guy," Vasquez said. "Especially in the offensive line, we've got to be on the same page."

"It's been a learning experience and a bit of a curveball, but we're doing pretty good with it."

Vasquez said Chris Clark and Winston Justice have been rotating at the open spot through OTAs so far. Clark started 17 games at left tackle last season (including playoffs) after Ryan Clady went on injured reserve, while Justice has made 42 starts since 2009.

"They have a few years under their belts, so it's not taking very long," Vasquez said of the line's communication. "They've been in the game and they know what offensive line play is about."

The ability to quickly adapt to others is just a small part of what has made Vasquez such an effective player. He says his focus is almost always on his technique because then "everything else will follow." It's hard to argue with the results, especially when defensive lineman Derek Wolfe calls Vasquez the "best offensive guard in the league."

"You get better every day going against a guy like that," Wolfe said. "He doesn't give you anything. You have to take it from him."

As Head Coach John Fox noted Monday, Vasquez was the only free-agent signee from 2013 that produced a Pro Bowl season.

"I feel like I learn something new every year," Vasquez said. "I pick up something to add to my game."

"I like to think I've built on the previous year before."

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