The Broncos made waves last week with the signing of free agent linebacker AJ Johnson. The former Tennessee standout had been out of football for over three years after being charged with rape but was recently acquitted of all charges.

Had Johnson’s legal status not been hanging over his head all these years, there’s a chance he would already be on Denver’s roster. That’s according to recent comments from Bronco’s general manager John Elway, who offered up some interesting comment on Johnson recently.

According to Elway, the Broncos like Johnson but obviously wanted to wait out his uncertain legal status. Check out these quotes from Elway via Zack Kelberman of 247Sports:

It should be noted that Denver gave the 26-year-old rookie a $50,000 signing bonus, which is significantly higher than most undrafted free agents. That figure should represent the level of commitment the Broncos have in Johnson and the potential they see in his ability to contribute to the organization if he proves he hasn’t lost a step on the field.