***2008 Broncos thread*** (1 Viewer)

[moleculo]

I'm finally ready to put 2007 behind and start looking towards 2008.

Here are some important Bronco links:

Rocky Mountain News

Denver Post

Broncos official Blogs

CBS 4

BroncoTalk

Orange Mane forum

feel free to add any other links that Broncoholics should be frequenting.



2008 season

==================

Den 41 oak 14 - fantastic road performance vs division rival - Eddie Royal has arrived!
====================

Offseason notes

Bates is out, Slowik to run the D
Lespis retires
Walker wants out
Rod Smith career probably done
Gold released
Lynch re-signed resigned
LB's Boss Bailey and Niko Koutouvides signed
DRobertson signed
Djackson signed
KColbert signed
MMcree signed
THenry out
MBell out
Holland TFTP traded
BMarshall out for first three games===============================

first bit of news:

link

Last offseason Jay Cutler and the Denver Broncos collectively took between one and two months off before heading back into the training room in preparation for the upcoming season. That may seem like a long time, but it’s hard to blame them - with the untimely death of Darrent Williams fresh on everyone’s mind and an inexperienced group of core players, no one knew how to start out the 2007 offseason.

This year, though, Cutler and company are already back in action.

In a recent interview with Sporting News Radio, Jay indicated that he is already training for 2008 in Atlanta. With him are teammates Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler. Cutler also said “a few other guys” have been there with them, and that this group only took two weeks off.

Cutler also talked candidly about Javon Walker, saying that Walker sounds like he has his own agenda and Head Coach Mike Shanahan isn’t one to put up with that.

The Monday Night Football Crew first broke the story that Cutler and company would be working out in Atlanta; I’m pleasantly surprised they’ve already been at it for a week now. Hopefully paying attention to “the little things” and giving that extra effort will pay dividends in the 2008 season.

good news for Marshall, Scheffler, and Culter owners. they should be able to continue in 2008 where they left off last year. Oddly, the passing game will not be a concern for the Bronco O in 2008.

 

[Andy Herron]

I expect all three of these guys, Marshall, Scheffler and Culter to have breakout seasons in 2008. Most notably Marshall. With health on his side, I look for him to move into the upper echelon of receivers (top 10-12) on a consistant basis.

Bolstering both their offensive and defensive lines would bring a marked improvement.

I doubt Javon Walker or Travis Henry will be back, but that wouldn't set them back.

As for Cutler, he's the real deal. If people don't already see that, they don't know football. He's going to grow into something great and become one of those quarterbacks we love to watch play, Broncos fan or not. He has that kind of talent.

Maybe not as prolific, but Scheffler will become to him what Witten is to Romo. Scheffler is an underrated tight end who was actually a wide receiver earlier in his career. His good hands and route-running exemplify that.

 

[BusMan]

One other site worth mentioning is the Mile High Report.

 

[AllVolUT]

I expect all three of these guys, Marshall, Scheffler and Culter to have breakout seasons in 2008. Most notably Marshall. With health on his side, I look for him to move into the upper echelon of receivers (top 10-12) on a consistant basis.

Bolstering both their offensive and defensive lines would bring a marked improvement.

I doubt Javon Walker or Travis Henry will be back, but that wouldn't set them back.

As for Cutler, he's the real deal. If people don't already see that, they don't know football. He's going to grow into something great and become one of those quarterbacks we love to watch play, Broncos fan or not. He has that kind of talent.

Maybe not as prolific, but Scheffler will become to him what Witten is to Romo. Scheffler is an underrated tight end who was actually a wide receiver earlier in his career. His good hands and route-running exemplify that.

Marshall finished 9th in my league's scoring system. I love the guy. Question to Denver homers: Do ya'll think the potential release of Me-von Walker will affect Marshall at all? I know he was pretty much a non-factor this year, but I'd like to get some input from Bronco homers...

FWIW, I like Cutler a lot as well and find myself pulling for the Orange and Blue on multiple occasions.

 

[SSOG]

I expect all three of these guys, Marshall, Scheffler and Culter to have breakout seasons in 2008. Most notably Marshall. With health on his side, I look for him to move into the upper echelon of receivers (top 10-12) on a consistant basis.

Bolstering both their offensive and defensive lines would bring a marked improvement.

I doubt Javon Walker or Travis Henry will be back, but that wouldn't set them back.

As for Cutler, he's the real deal. If people don't already see that, they don't know football. He's going to grow into something great and become one of those quarterbacks we love to watch play, Broncos fan or not. He has that kind of talent.

Maybe not as prolific, but Scheffler will become to him what Witten is to Romo. Scheffler is an underrated tight end who was actually a wide receiver earlier in his career. His good hands and route-running exemplify that.

Marshall finished 9th in my league's scoring system. I love the guy. Question to Denver homers: Do ya'll think the potential release of Me-von Walker will affect Marshall at all? I know he was pretty much a non-factor this year, but I'd like to get some input from Bronco homers...

FWIW, I like Cutler a lot as well and find myself pulling for the Orange and Blue on multiple occasions.

Marshall saw an insane number of targets this season. If Walker's gone, it increases Marshall's chances of getting an insane number of targets next year, too, which can only be good for Marshall.

 

[moleculo]

looking to upgrade D-line: link

Broncos not only suitors for Detroit’s Rogers

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Originally published 02:47 p.m., February 25, 2008

Updated 08:03 p.m., February 25, 2008

More Broncos/NFL

All expectations are that enigmatic defensive tackle Shaun Rogers will be gone from Detroit by the time the trading period opens 10 p.m. Thursday.

The Denver Broncos are among the suitors aggressively pursuing the two-time Pro Bowl selection, and at one point Monday, appeared to perhaps be on the verge of acquiring the 6-foot-4 interior defender. But other teams continue making their pitches. And Denver now doesn’t appear to be in the clear.

The Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers all are trying to fortify their front fours. And the Lions are marketing Rogers aggressively around the league before the start of the new NFL calendar.

Rogers’ agent, Kennard McGuire, said he wouldn’t confirm or deny any trade speculation regarding his client.

What is apparent in league circles is that Rogers will be playing elsewhere next season. His battles with weight in particular have apparently worn out Detroit coach Rod Marinelli to the point where a change of scenery would benefit both parties. And there are enough competitors for Rogers’ services that compensation should be sufficient.

Rogers, 28, had his best game last season against Denver, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors with 2 1/2 sacks and a 66-yard interception return for a touchdown. He also had a career-high seven sacks for the season. But he faded the final eight games as Detroit went 1-7 and was reportedly well over his listed 340 pounds, which adversely affected his already balky knees.



Denver also is one of the teams that is pursuing New York Jets defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson, a former top-10 pick who’s being made available since he’s a poor fit as a 3-4 nose tackle and comes at a hefty price.

 

[broncofan13000]

 

[RustyFA]

I'm a Vikings fan but my wife is a Bronco and I watch nearly every game. This is a team that has many needs in my opinion. The Broncos have needed an upgrade at S for a couple years. Now Lynch is near the end of his career and we will need 2. The DTs were the worst in the league last year. Any and every team ran inside against these guys. We need two starters. Getting Robertson or/and Rogers would be great. We need beef in there. Any pass rush is a plus. Our DEs get to the QB but are not great against the run. Getting Jarvis Moss will help even more.

It looks like Denver will draft a kicker and let Elam go. Very very sad. The Broncos need a #2 WR if Walker is gone. Perhaps Stokely can handle it. The OL needs help. Everyone was hurt last year and now Lepsis is retiring. OT may be the best value in the 1st round. OT may be the best value in the 2nd round. It is a deep year for OL. If the Broncos can get one of those DTs in a trade and Lynch returns I wouldn't mind a draft of OT, OT/OG, no pick in 3rd, DT, K, WR, S.

 

[BusMan]

I'm a Vikings fan but my wife is a Bronco and I watch nearly every game. This is a team that has many needs in my opinion. The Broncos have needed an upgrade at S for a couple years. Now Lynch is near the end of his career and we will need 2. The DTs were the worst in the league last year. Any and every team ran inside against these guys. We need two starters. Getting Robertson or/and Rogers would be great. We need beef in there. Any pass rush is a plus. Our DEs get to the QB but are not great against the run. Getting Jarvis Moss will help even more.It looks like Denver will draft a kicker and let Elam go. Very very sad. The Broncos need a #2 WR if Walker is gone. Perhaps Stokely can handle it. The OL needs help. Everyone was hurt last year and now Lepsis is retiring. OT may be the best value in the 1st round. OT may be the best value in the 2nd round. It is a deep year for OL. If the Broncos can get one of those DTs in a trade and Lynch returns I wouldn't mind a draft of OT, OT/OG, no pick in 3rd, DT, K, WR, S.

Typically its not the Broncos MO to draft a OL high, so I'd guess they'll use one or two of their Round 4 or later picks to scoop up "system" OLinemen and give Harris a chance to win one of the T spots.They're shopping Gold so they're probably looking to bring in a LB, too. Maybe Dan Connor?And I agree there is a need for a safety, but there is some security there as Abdullah played well at times last year and Foxworth can play the position if needed so I can see Denver using a 2nd or 3rd on a safety.Typically, though, Shanhan falls in love with a few guys, and does what he has to do to get one of the. Then he plays needs the rest of the draft.I'm sure Denver will also grab a WR and a DT as some point in the draft, although this is a weak class for both.

 

[Broncoholic]

feel free to add any other links that Broncoholics should be frequenting.

 

[moleculo]

foxworth on the block:

link

Foxworth headed out?

By Bill Williamson

The Denver Post

Article Last Updated: 02/28/2008 11:13:19 AM MST

The Broncos may be close to trading cornerback Domonique Foxworth to the Detroit Lions, according to a source close to the negotiations. Trade talks heated up this morning. Trades can be agreed upon, but not made official until 10 p.m. tonight, when the free agent signing period starts.

It's not yet clear what Denver would get in return, although the Broncos have shown interest in Lions' defensive tackle Shaun Rogers.

Another possibility is a three-way trade with the Jets and the Lions that would involve Jets' defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson coming to Denver and Rogers going to the Jets. The Lions also are interested in linebacker Jonathan Vilma, so he could be a part of a bigger deal.

The Broncos still are trying to trade receiver Javon Walker, and Dallas and Tampa Bay are among teams that have expressed interest.

I always liked Foxworth. I'm not crazy about letting go quality young depth at DB, but I do believe Rodgers could help alot with the run game. If this happens, look for Denver to draft a safety early (which IMO, they need to do anyways).

 

[RustyFA]

In that trade they are saying Denver would give up their 2nd round pick also. They traded their 3rd to Minnesota so they would just have the 1st rounder.

 

[KoolKat]

foxworth on the block:

link

Foxworth headed out?

By Bill Williamson

The Denver Post

Article Last Updated: 02/28/2008 11:13:19 AM MST

The Broncos may be close to trading cornerback Domonique Foxworth to the Detroit Lions, according to a source close to the negotiations. Trade talks heated up this morning. Trades can be agreed upon, but not made official until 10 p.m. tonight, when the free agent signing period starts.

It's not yet clear what Denver would get in return, although the Broncos have shown interest in Lions' defensive tackle Shaun Rogers.

Another possibility is a three-way trade with the Jets and the Lions that would involve Jets' defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson coming to Denver and Rogers going to the Jets. The Lions also are interested in linebacker Jonathan Vilma, so he could be a part of a bigger deal.

The Broncos still are trying to trade receiver Javon Walker, and Dallas and Tampa Bay are among teams that have expressed interest.

I always liked Foxworth. I'm not crazy about letting go quality young depth at DB, but I do believe Rodgers could help alot with the run game. If this happens, look for Denver to draft a safety early (which IMO, they need to do anyways).

I think that the defensive line is our biggest weakness. So, if it takes giving up a little secondary depth to get a little bit of D-Line help, I am all for it. I do like Foxworth though.

 

[moleculo]

Walker gone officially.

link

The Broncos released wide receiver Javon Walker today, an NFL source confirmed.

Walker had spent two bittersweet seasons with the Broncos. Acquired from the Green Bay Packers in 2006 in exchange for a second-round draft pick, Walker overcame reconstructive knee surgery to lead the team with 69 receptions, 1,084 yards and eight receiving touchdowns in 2006. He started strong in 2007, recording 17 receptions for 220 yards through the Broncos' first two games, both victories, however Walker's right knee began troubling him to the point he needed a second surgical procedure on the knee at mid-season.

He returned late, but struggled to regain form and finished with 26 catches for 287 yards. The day after the season ended, Walker publicly stated he didn't think he fit into the Broncos' offense and stated a desire to play elsewhere.

The Broncos attempted to trade Walker in recent days, but released him in lieu of paying him a $5.4 million option bonus due March 4.

What a shame. Fantastic player when healthy, but not convinced his head is on straight. Thank God for BMarshall. I hope the $5.4M saved is spent wisely.Nate Jackson and Engelberger resigned

link

The Broncos checked another one of their free agents off their list by agreeing to a two-year contract with tight end Nate Jackson this morning.

The deal is worth about $2 million with some escalators. Jackson ended last season on the injured reserve. The team likes him because of his strong hands, creating a good option in the passing game.

The Broncos re-signed defensive end John Engelberger on Thursday night. The Broncos' remaining free agents are kicker Jason Elam, defensive end Ebenezer Ekuban, safety Nick Ferguson and fullback Cecil Sapp. Elam and Ekuban are the team's top targets. Sapp and Ferguson are not likely to return.

Between DGraham and TScheffler, I'm not sure what the plans are for NJackson.

 

[BoltBacker]

What a shame. Fantastic player when healthy, but not convinced his head is on straight.

What's that about? I thought it was a simple case of Walker having a contract and DEN didn't want to pay it.

 

[moleculo]

What a shame. Fantastic player when healthy, but not convinced his head is on straight.

What's that about? I thought it was a simple case of Walker having a contract and DEN didn't want to pay it.

IMO, and this is mostly speculation, there were two things bugging Javon here - (1) the lingering memory of DWilliams untimely death in Javons arms. I think that would be a heck of a thing to come back from. (2) overshadowed by Brandon Marshall.I think it's more than the contract thing; he stated at the end of the season that he didn't want to be a Bronco any more, something along the lines of not feeling like he fit into their plans.

 

[BoltBacker]

I think it's more than the contract thing; he stated at the end of the season that he didn't want to be a Bronco any more, something along the lines of not feeling like he fit into their plans.

I think that was in reaction to being asked to take a pay cut. He was asking at the end of the season why he should have to renegotiate his contract when the big $ just started to kick in.

 

[moleculo]

Lynch stays with Broncos

link

Lynch stays with Broncos

By Bill Williamson

The Denver Post

Article Last Updated: 02/29/2008 08:29:27 PM MST

John Lynch is still a Bronco.

After an intense few days of negotiations, the Broncos and Lynch have come to an accord that will keep him in Denver this season. The new contract should be signed in the coming days because final details are still being worked out.

The final year of the all-pro safety's contract was restructured but terms were not immediately known. Lynch was to be paid $3 million this season.

Lynch had been considering retirement but it became clear he wanted to play one more year. Still, as late as Thursday evening, it appeared he and the team would not come to an agreement and that he was on his way out. But after a day of discussions, Lynch, who will be 37 in September, came to terms.

The heart and soul of the Denver defense, Lynch has been to four Pro Bowls in four years with Denver and will remain a starting cog for the team.

IMO, Lynch is most valuable providing leadership for this team, more so than his on the field play. He really can't cover very well, but he still brings it for run support and he still seems to be in the right place at the right time.Gold released as well

link

Gold was due a bonus next week. Gold was originally drafted by the Broncos in 2000 and left Tampa Bay as a free agent in 2004 and returned to Denver in 2005. His play dropped off dramatically last season.

 

[broncofan13000]

:(

(Rotoworld) Broncos DT Marcus Thomas was arrested early Saturday on a drug possession charge.Impact: The drug was cocaine. Thomas was a top-15 talent last year, but fell all the way to the fourth round because of his checkered off-field history. We doubt he'll face a suspension, but it's a bad sign he's still making poor decisions. A lie detector test from Mike Shanahan may be forthcoming.

 

[DarabZarrabi]

I think it's more than the contract thing; he stated at the end of the season that he didn't want to be a Bronco any more, something along the lines of not feeling like he fit into their plans.

I think that was in reaction to being asked to take a pay cut. He was asking at the end of the season why he should have to renegotiate his contract when the big $ just started to kick in.

I read somewhere a few weeks ago, and Im sorry I dont have a source, but it said that Marshall, Sheffler, and Cutler had already started working out together, and then when Cutler was asked about Walker working out with him he replied that Walker sorta does his own thing and has his own agenda

 

[moleculo]

I think it's more than the contract thing; he stated at the end of the season that he didn't want to be a Bronco any more, something along the lines of not feeling like he fit into their plans.

I think that was in reaction to being asked to take a pay cut. He was asking at the end of the season why he should have to renegotiate his contract when the big $ just started to kick in.

I read somewhere a few weeks ago, and Im sorry I dont have a source, but it said that Marshall, Sheffler, and Cutler had already started working out together, and then when Cutler was asked about Walker working out with him he replied that Walker sorta does his own thing and has his own agenda

first post in this thread maybe?

 

[BoltBacker]

After watching McCree tackle last season I wonder if LT payed for the air-fare?

"March 5, 2008, 11:33

Broncos :: LB, DB

LB Bailey, S McCree Visit Denver

Bill Williamson, Denver Post - [Full Article]

The Broncos will entertain LB Boss Bailey on Thursday. Bailey could join his brother CB Champ Bailey, who is heavily campaigning to sign the strong-side linebacker. "First of all, we need him, that's the biggest thing above him being my brother," Champ said. "It would be great for us. Hopefully, we'll get it done ... There's no question, this is where Boss wants to be." The Broncos will also meet with S Marlon McCree, who will likely choose between the Broncos and Bills.http://www.denverpost.com/sports/ci_8455037 "

 

[RustyFA]

The talent level on this team really needs to be upgraded. At this point the Bronco's could use an OLman or two, 2 starting DTs, an OLB, a S, and depth everywhere.

I hope they sign Bailey as a OLB is needed and he was a 2nd rounder at one point. I haven't really seen him play very often.

There are needs everywhere to be addressed in the draft. The strongest are DT, DT.

 

[moleculo]

Boss Bailey signed

link

Boss Bailey signs with Broncos, joins brother in Denver

NFL.com Wire Reports

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Bailey brothers are teaming up in Denver.

The Broncos on Thursday signed free agent linebacker Boss Bailey, the younger brother of perennial Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey.

Boss Bailey, LB

Denver Broncos

Height: 6-3

Weight: 235

College: Georgia

Experience: 5

The five-year contract is worth $17.5 million, including a $4.3 million signing bonus, reports NFL Network's Adam Schefter. Boss Bailey will receive $8 million in the first two years of the deal.

"I'm excited to have the chance to play with my brother, and I know that Boss' speed and versatility will have a great impact on our defense," Champ Bailey said. "I can't wait to get on the field with him."

Boss Bailey spent his first five seasons in Detroit, after being selected in the second round of the 2003 draft. He had a standout career at the University of Georgia, where he followed his older brother as an all-conference selection.

The 28-year-old linebacker has appeared in 58 games, including 51 starts, and has made 258 tackles, seven sacks and two interceptions.

Last season, he had a career-best 3½ sacks and 47 tackles in 15 games.

A phone message left for his agent, Jack Reale, was not immediately returned.

The Baileys will be the fourth pair of brothers to play for the Broncos, and will join Dave and Doug Widell (1990-92) and Eldon and William Danenhauer (1960) as the only brothers to play for the franchise at the same time.

Although coach Mike Shanahan has said the organization is shifting its emphasis from free agency to the draft to fill its many needs after missing the playoffs two straight years, the Broncos shored up their linebacker corps with experience this week.

They already had signed free agent Niko Koutouvides, who will get a chance to start at middle linebacker, and waived Ian Gold, who spent seven seasons in Denver sandwiched around a season in Tampa Bay in 2004.

Boss Bailey will play strong side linebacker in Denver, and D.J. Williams will move back to the weak side after a year in the middle.

The Broncos also signed free agent receiver Edell Shepherd on Thursday. He spent the 2007 season out of the NFL after the Detroit Lions released him in late August.

Shepherd is a fifth-year player who's spent time on the rosters of Detroit, Houston (2006), Tampa Bay (2003-06) and Chicago (2002-03). He has 13 catches for 163 yards and one touchdown in 25 career regular season games.

 

[BoltBacker]

At this point the Bronco's could use an OLman or two, 2 starting DTs, an OLB, a S, and depth everywhere.

Which S is the S they don't need to replace.You don't think they need a WR?If last season(and the season before) was any indicator they could probably use an entire new DL. Again.

 

[rascal]

Summarize offseason moves

In:

Keary Colbert (3 yr, 7.1m contract, 2.5m SB)

Niko Koutouvides (3 yr, 7.5 mil)

Boss Bailey (5 yr, 17.5 mil, 4.3m SB)

Marquand Manuel (3 yr, 4.5 mil)

Marlon McCree (no details)

Edell Shepherd (no details)

Out:

Javon Walker (cap hit 7.05 mil, dead money 6.8 mil)

Ian Gold (cap hit 4.9 mil, dead money 3.5 m)

Matt Lepsis (cap hit 7.2 mil, dead money 5 mil)

Resignings:

Erik Pears ($445 1 year exclusive)

Chris Myers ($927k, tender-6th)

Karl Paymah ($927k, tender 3rd)

Dominique Foxworth ($927k, tender 3rd)

John Engelberger (2 yr, 4 mil)

Nate Jackson (2 year, 2 mil)

Ebeneezer Ekuban (1 yr, 1.2 mil)

Restructurings:

Rod Smith (placed on reserve-retired list, unsure of cap hit)

Travis Henry (waived 6m option, cap hit now 2.3 mil)

John Lynch (agreed to 1 yr for 2 mil)

Dre Bly (changed 9 mil option bonus into signing bonsu over remaining 4 years)

Alvin McKinley (base salary changed from 1.33 mil to 1 mil)

Montrae Holland (base salary changed from .9 mil to 1.15 mil)

Unsigned FA:

Cecil Sapp

Stephen Alexander

Nick Ferguson

Jason Elam

Top 51 on roster=$81.109m

Total dead cap room=$22.454m

Total cap =$103.563m

Broncos total cap room = $117.389m

Cap room available estimate = $13.826m

Current draft picks:

Round 1 - 12

Round 2 - 42

Round 4 - 104

Round 4 - 115

Round 5 - 130

Round 5 - 140

Round 7 - 202

Round 7 - 209

None of these moves are headline material, but they are solid signings IMO and they have the potential to improve over the player last year. It's also evident from these moves that they were not happy with the LB or S of last year. One more LB or S may be picked up in draft or FA, but otherwise the defensive attention should be spent on DT which next to OT is the worst on the team. Maybe they can snag Robertson. Local beat writers have assumed that the Broncos LB group will be DJ-Will, Niko-MLB, and Bailey-Sam. Not sure about safeties yet, but I expect one of McCree or Manuel to start. Rumors have also been that the Broncos will move Foxworth for a third rounder.

 

[lord_helmet]

Will Hamza Abdullah see any significant playing time next season ? Manuel hasnt exactly impressed anyone and I'm not sure about McCree.

 

[Courtjester]

Will Hamza Abdullah see any significant playing time next season ? Manuel hasnt exactly impressed anyone and I'm not sure about McCree.

I was really disppointed when Abdullah got on the field last year. That guy simply cannot tackle. If I had a dollar for how many times he would try and arm tackle someone or take a wrong angle or just simply whiff on a play.

 

[lord_helmet]

Will Hamza Abdullah see any significant playing time next season ? Manuel hasnt exactly impressed anyone and I'm not sure about McCree.

I was really disppointed when Abdullah got on the field last year. That guy simply cannot tackle. If I had a dollar for how many times he would try and arm tackle someone or take a wrong angle or just simply whiff on a play.

Yeah I noticed the poor tackling as well, when he did not just run by the ballcarrier that is. Still not sure if Manuel or McCree is much of an upgrade though.

 

[BusMan]

I'm interested in the fact that the Broncos are shopping Foxworth. I really thought they liked his versatility, considering he played nickel back and started at safety in his career. Is there something I'm missing here? Is there someone else on the roster ready to fill this role?

 

[BusMan]

And another thing: was DJ really that bad in the middle? Or do the Broncos simply think he is better equipped for the outside?

 

[RustyFA]

I'm interested in the fact that the Broncos are shopping Foxworth. I really thought they liked his versatility, considering he played nickel back and started at safety in his career. Is there something I'm missing here? Is there someone else on the roster ready to fill this role?

He will be gone next year. He has proved to be good enough to start and will get that chance, and a huge check. The Bronco's should get something for him now.

 

[JohnnyU]

Anymore news about the possiblity of signing Musa Smith?

 

[moleculo]

Broncos reach agreement in principle with Chiefs WR Parker

Though the AFC West is becoming a division of bigger receivers, the Broncos went against the grain and reached an agreement in principle with 190-pound Samie Parker of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Parker's agent, Jordan Woy, was out of the country Monday, but he was putting the final touches on a contract for Parker. Terms of the deal weren't available, but it was close enough that Parker was making preparations to sign the contract.

The 27-year-old Parker started 22 games over the past two seasons for the Chiefs. He caught 41 passes in 2006 and 24 passes in seven starts last year. Parker was a 2004 fourth-round pick of the Chiefs.

Camp fodder, to go along with Colbert. word is that the Broncos are also pursuing DJackson, whom I'd be much more excited about.

IMO, the free agency WR signings is an indication that the Broncos are not looking to address this position via the draft, as some have speculated.

 

[Marc Levin]

Link

Denver going OT in the first?

 

[BusMan]

Link

Denver going OT in the first?

After signing Robertson and Darrell Jackson lately, yes, I believe so. Although I wouldn't be too surprised to see Stewart here.

 

[Marc Levin]

Link

Denver going OT in the first?

After signing Robertson and Darrell Jackson lately, yes, I believe so. Although I wouldn't be too surprised to see Stewart here.

All good points - since I moved away, I am admittedly lax in my Denver Broncos knowledge. Talk around town that Shanahan is ready to draft a 1st round RB? How is Henry's situation?Also the article mentioned the pick will be someone they have had in for workouts - have they had face to face private workouts with Stewart?

 

[BusMan]

Link

Denver going OT in the first?

After signing Robertson and Darrell Jackson lately, yes, I believe so. Although I wouldn't be too surprised to see Stewart here.

All good points - since I moved away, I am admittedly lax in my Denver Broncos knowledge. Talk around town that Shanahan is ready to draft a 1st round RB? How is Henry's situation?Also the article mentioned the pick will be someone they have had in for workouts - have they had face to face private workouts with Stewart?

Not that I'm aware of.

 

[Marc Levin]

Link

Denver going OT in the first?

After signing Robertson and Darrell Jackson lately, yes, I believe so. Although I wouldn't be too surprised to see Stewart here.

All good points - since I moved away, I am admittedly lax in my Denver Broncos knowledge. Talk around town that Shanahan is ready to draft a 1st round RB? How is Henry's situation?Also the article mentioned the pick will be someone they have had in for workouts - have they had face to face private workouts with Stewart?

Not that I'm aware of.

Two of the Broncos' potential first-round targets at offensive tackle, Boise State's Ryan Clady and Vanderbilt's Chris Williams, were among the 30 visitors allotted each team to its facility for pre-draft interviews.

Also coming through the door was Boston College's Gosder Cherilus, a potential second-round target at the position with overall pick No. 42.

Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall, one of the top offensive prospects and a potential target at 12th overall, also came through Dove Valley.

So maybe Shanahan is being forthright this time around.

Or maybe he isn't, since double-speak was palpable, and understandable, at his pre-draft news conference, where saying nothing is the ultimate goal.

There were a few items that could be cleanly disseminated from Shanahan.

Foremost: He's high on the offensive tackle group.

The question is whether a player like Virginia's Branden Albert or Pittsburgh's Jeff Otah is worth the first-round pick or waiting is the prudent choice in a deep position.

"The question is," Shanahan said, "do you value somebody in the second round that's pretty close to somebody in the first round, so do you go a different direction in the first round? That's the kind of question every team looks at."

One of those "other" directions could be running back, where not only Mendenhall but Oregon's Jonathan Stewart might be too good to pass up.

"Would we be interested in a running back? Sure we would," Shanahan said. "It all depends on who's there. And you take the look at the value of some of these running backs in the draft, I think it'll be one of the better drafts for running backs. There's good value in the first round. But there's good value in the second round. And there's so many running backs there might be value in the sixth and seventh round, depending on who you have targeted."

 

[BusMan]

A lot has changed in Denver since the last post in this thread. Thoughts/questions:

1) Henry was cut. Speculation (and word from Shanahan) is that Selvin Young is the #1 RB heading into camp. Of course, this doesn't mean Torain, Pittman, or any of the other backs on the roster can't move up to that spot at any point. Except Mike Bell---I think he's done.

2) Will Marshall be suspended? Who is going to win the #2 job? What WRs will make the squad and who will be cut?

3) Will the DL be any better with Robertson in the middle?

4) Will Niko win the MLB job?

5) Are the Broncos a playoff contender? Or are they most likely on the outside looking in?

 

[BusMan]

1) Henry was cut. Speculation (and word from Shanahan) is that Selvin Young is the #1 RB heading into camp. Of course, this doesn't mean Torain, Pittman, or any of the other backs on the roster can't move up to that spot at any point. Except Mike Bell---I think he's done.

Mike Bell cut.Denver Post Link

 

[BusMan]

Current Roster

Projected Starters

QB Jay Cutler

RB Selvin Young

FB Cecil Sapp

WR Brandon Marshall

WR Darrell Jackson

TE Daniel Graham

LT Ryan Clady

LG Ben Hamilton

C Tom Nalen

RG Montre Holland

RT Erik Pears

LDE John Engelberger

LDT Dwayne Robertson

RDT Alvin McKinley

RDE Elvis Dumervil

SLB Boss Bailey

MLB Niko Koutouvides

WLB D.J. Williams

LCB Champ Bailey

RCB Dre Bly

SS John Lynch

FS Hamza Abdullah

K Matt Prater

P Sam Paulescu

PR Eddie Royal

KR Andre Hall

Notes:

Pears isn't the clear cut starter at RT; this will be a training camp competition with second year player Ryan Harris and backup guard Chris Kuper in the mix.
Hamilton is coming back from a severe concussion that had him miss the entire 2007 season, while Nalen is return from a torn arm muscle.
Darrell Jackson will be competing with Keary Colbert for the #2 WR job; Shanahan likes Colbert's blocking skills and determination.
Niko isn't guaranteed the MLB job; Nate Webster will be in the mix.
Marlon McCree is running with the first team nickel package instead of John Lynch. Sounds like Lynch might become even more of an extra 'backer this year.
I expect to see a ton of Harris/Thomas/Crowder/Moss as a second DL.

 

[BusMan]

Pre TC Projected 53 man Roster

QB: Jay Cutler, Patrick Ramsey

RB: Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Ryan Torain, Andre Hall

FB: Cecil Sapp, Peyton Hillis

WR: Brandon Marshall, Darrell Jackson, Brandon Stokley, Keary Colbert, Eddie Royal, Samie Parker

TE: Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson, Chad Mustard, Mike Leach (LS)

T: Ryan Clady, Erik Pears, Ryan Harris

G: Ben Hamilton, Montre Holland, Chris Kuper, Dylan Gandy

C: Tom Nalen, Casey Weigmann, Kory Lichtensteiger

DE: John Engelberger, Elvis Dumervil, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder

DT: Dewayne Robertson, Alvin McKinley, Marcus Thomas, Steven Harris

LB: Boss Bailey, Niko Koutouvides, D.J. Williams, Nate Webster, Jamie Winborn, Spencer Larsen

CB: Champ Bailey, Dre Bly, Dominique Foxworth, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams

S: John Lynch, Hamza Abdullah, Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel

K: Matt Prater

P: Sam Paulescu

Edited to correct Karl Paymah omission (cut Chad Mustard).

 

[SSOG]

Edited to correct Karl Paymah omission (cut Chad Mustard).

That's just cruel, man. Hasn't he been cut enough already?

 

[BusMan]

Edited to correct Karl Paymah omission (cut Chad Mustard).

That's just cruel, man. Hasn't he been cut enough already?

Yeah, but they'll just bring him back again once someone goes on IR.

 

[BusMan]

Pre TC Projected 53 man Roster

QB: Jay Cutler, Patrick Ramsey

RB: Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Ryan Torain, Andre Hall

FB: Cecil Sapp, Peyton Hillis

WR: Brandon Marshall, Darrell Jackson, Brandon Stokley, Keary Colbert, Eddie Royal, Samie Parker

TE: Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson, Chad Mustard, Mike Leach (LS)

T: Ryan Clady, Erik Pears, Ryan Harris

G: Ben Hamilton, Montre Holland, Chris Kuper, Dylan Gandy

C: Tom Nalen, Casey Weigmann, Kory Lichtensteiger

DE: John Engelberger, Elvis Dumervil, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder

DT: Dewayne Robertson, Alvin McKinley, Marcus Thomas, Steven Harris

LB: Boss Bailey, Niko Koutouvides, D.J. Williams, Nate Webster, Jamie Winborn, Spencer Larsen

CB: Champ Bailey, Dre Bly, Dominique Foxworth, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams

S: John Lynch, Hamza Abdullah, Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel

K: Matt Prater

P: Sam Paulescu

Edited to correct Karl Paymah omission (cut Chad Mustard).

Hmmm...I forgot about Ekuban coming back. I'm not sure where he'll fit, and who will need to get scrapped. I'm also wondering which rookies will be good enough to keep on the practice squad, and which ones might not make it through waivers. Particularly with Lichtensteiger and Jack Williams.

 

[SSOG]

Pre TC Projected 53 man Roster

QB: Jay Cutler, Patrick Ramsey

RB: Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Ryan Torain, Andre Hall

FB: Cecil Sapp, Peyton Hillis

WR: Brandon Marshall, Darrell Jackson, Brandon Stokley, Keary Colbert, Eddie Royal, Samie Parker

TE: Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson, Chad Mustard, Mike Leach (LS)

T: Ryan Clady, Erik Pears, Ryan Harris

G: Ben Hamilton, Montre Holland, Chris Kuper, Dylan Gandy

C: Tom Nalen, Casey Weigmann, Kory Lichtensteiger

DE: John Engelberger, Elvis Dumervil, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder

DT: Dewayne Robertson, Alvin McKinley, Marcus Thomas, Steven Harris

LB: Boss Bailey, Niko Koutouvides, D.J. Williams, Nate Webster, Jamie Winborn, Spencer Larsen

CB: Champ Bailey, Dre Bly, Dominique Foxworth, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams

S: John Lynch, Hamza Abdullah, Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel

K: Matt Prater

P: Sam Paulescu

Edited to correct Karl Paymah omission (cut Chad Mustard).

Hmmm...I forgot about Ekuban coming back. I'm not sure where he'll fit, and who will need to get scrapped. I'm also wondering which rookies will be good enough to keep on the practice squad, and which ones might not make it through waivers. Particularly with Lichtensteiger and Jack Williams.

Ekuban was our best defensive lineman two years ago, and was slated to be first team last year. Provided he's healthy and ready to go, he'd easily get the starting nod over Engleberger. He's one of the best linemen on the team against the run, and as bad as Denver was against the run last year, he'll be sorely needed. Plus he's got all sorts of veteran savvy that'll come in handy with such a young unit.

 

[BusMan]

Day one of TC notes (culled from various web sites):

--Rookie DT Powell is out for the year (Achilles)

--Starting RG Montrae Holland is out of shape and won't be practicing until he loses some weight

--Brandon Marshall is out of shape

--According to RBs coach Bobby Turner, Young is the current number one back, but the job is an open competition; Hall ran with the second team

--TE Chad Mustard started camp on the PUP

--WR Edell Shepherd injured his left knee in the morning practice

--The starting DTs were Dewayne Robertson and Kenny Peterson; Niko ran with the 1sts at MLB; Lynch is still being replaced by McCree on passing downs

 

[BusMan]

--Starting RG Montrae Holland is out of shape and won't be practicing until he loses some weight

With Holland out, Chris Kuper started at RG, with second-year player Ryan Harris at RT. Harris and Kuper will be competing in training camp for the starting RT gig. Kuper appears to be the most versatile Broncos lineman.

 

[BusMan]

Training Camp Day 3 Notes:

--there is some talk of Kenny Peterson getting starter reps at DT

--WR Edell Shepherd has been IRed and Taylor Jacobs resigned

--Cutler, Marshall, Scheffler, Clady, Young looking good on offense

--Royal looks lightning fast and should be used in some creative ways on offense (end arounds)

--Pittman not really impressing

--Dumervil continues to struggle in run support

--Webster is now running with the 1sts at MLB; Niko with the twos