Broncos C Gino Gradkowski out to prove he can be a starter

Broncos center Gino Gradkowski admitted that he has something to prove now that he's with his new team. 

The Ravens traded Gradkowski to the Broncos on Wednesday, with the move becoming official following his physical on Thursday. Gradkowski was Baltimore's starter in 2013 but was moved to backup duty in 2014. 

In Denver, he'll have a shot to start again. 

"(Last season) was very difficult for me, but I came out of it a better player and a better person. I have a chip on my shoulder now," Gradkowski said, via The Denver Post. "I feel like I have a lot to prove and I can't wait to get started with that."

Gradkowski is expected to compete with Matt Paradis for the starting center job. Gradkowski does have familiarity with what the Broncos want to do offensively. Coach Gary Kubiak and offensive coordinator Rick Dennison were both on the Ravens staff in 2014. 

"I think (Kubiak) bringing in players he had before will help bring the other players along, so that's a benefit, too," Gradkowski said.