Tuesday, December 20, 2011
2008 Denver Broncos Post-Draft Analysis
by ESPN Analyst Adam Schefter
"After making splashes in free agency with key signings on both sides of the ball, and big name trades at key positions, you would think the Denver Broncos would be sitting on their laurels come draft day. You thought wrong. Not even an hour into the first round, the Broncos trade up with the Kansas City Chiefs and take the best defensive player in this year's draft, Keith Rivers. Their linebacking corps will look to dominate for years to come as none of them are near 30 years old. Rivers can cover any tight end man-to-man and lay down punishing hits to unsuspecting receivers over the middle.
"Ryan Clady, part of the Boise State team that beat Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, will become an integral part of the offensive line that has seen all five starters from last season either traded, cut, or in the case of Matt Lepsis... retired. This is a solid pick at #12 that will pay dividends for years to come.
"University of Texas star wide receiver Limas Sweed will line up opposite Brandon Marshall this year. I like this pick for two reasons: #1 at 6'5" he'll cause match up problems with his height and vertical ability; #2 his speed, although not elite running a still impressive 4.46, will stretch defenses out.
"Sweed's partner at Texas, Jermichael Finley is probably one of the most underrated players in this year's draft. His big-play ability will cause mismatches for opponents with his combination of speed and size. A smart, safe pick in the third round.
"Ahtyba Rubin out of Iowa State will be asked a lot to come in and clog the middle alongside Marcus Thomas. I think he can do that and more in Denver no trouble at all.
"Kevin Robinson is a surprising pick in the fifth round. Like Sweed and Marshall he has height, but I'm not too sure if he'll make a good slot receiver for the Broncos. Slot receivers are usually speedy receivers, and Robinson doesn't really fit the bill in the speed department.
"To see a kicker go in the fifth round is not unheard of, so seeing Alexis Serna replace Jason Elam isn't a huge shocker. I'm not putting down Serna at all; I think he'll be a huge success in Denver; he just has big shoes to fill as a clutch kicker.
"Chauncey Washington and Xavier Omon are running backs from different extremes, not to mention size differences. It'll be interesting to see how the Broncos utilize these two with newly acquired back Michael Turner and the only back left from the Shanahan regime in Mike Bell.
"Finally Kellen Davis is the Broncos' last choice in the draft. As Michigan State's tight end Davis made a solid impact for his college team and looks to do the same in Denver. I'm amazed he fell this far; I had him going in the fifth round. It'll be interesting to see him compete with Finley and current #1 on the depth chart Tony Scheffler.
Undrafted Rookies:
Tony Bake - RE; Pierre Garcon - WR; Josh Barrett - FS; Andrew Larson - P; Mike Peterson - TE.
Up Next: Rookie Contracts
"Ryan Clady, part of the Boise State team that beat Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, will become an integral part of the offensive line that has seen all five starters from last season either traded, cut, or in the case of Matt Lepsis... retired. This is a solid pick at #12 that will pay dividends for years to come.
"University of Texas star wide receiver Limas Sweed will line up opposite Brandon Marshall this year. I like this pick for two reasons: #1 at 6'5" he'll cause match up problems with his height and vertical ability; #2 his speed, although not elite running a still impressive 4.46, will stretch defenses out.
"Sweed's partner at Texas, Jermichael Finley is probably one of the most underrated players in this year's draft. His big-play ability will cause mismatches for opponents with his combination of speed and size. A smart, safe pick in the third round.
"Ahtyba Rubin out of Iowa State will be asked a lot to come in and clog the middle alongside Marcus Thomas. I think he can do that and more in Denver no trouble at all.
"Kevin Robinson is a surprising pick in the fifth round. Like Sweed and Marshall he has height, but I'm not too sure if he'll make a good slot receiver for the Broncos. Slot receivers are usually speedy receivers, and Robinson doesn't really fit the bill in the speed department.
"To see a kicker go in the fifth round is not unheard of, so seeing Alexis Serna replace Jason Elam isn't a huge shocker. I'm not putting down Serna at all; I think he'll be a huge success in Denver; he just has big shoes to fill as a clutch kicker.
"Chauncey Washington and Xavier Omon are running backs from different extremes, not to mention size differences. It'll be interesting to see how the Broncos utilize these two with newly acquired back Michael Turner and the only back left from the Shanahan regime in Mike Bell.
"Finally Kellen Davis is the Broncos' last choice in the draft. As Michigan State's tight end Davis made a solid impact for his college team and looks to do the same in Denver. I'm amazed he fell this far; I had him going in the fifth round. It'll be interesting to see him compete with Finley and current #1 on the depth chart Tony Scheffler.
Undrafted Rookies:
Tony Bake - RE; Pierre Garcon - WR; Josh Barrett - FS; Andrew Larson - P; Mike Peterson - TE.
Up Next: Rookie Contracts
Monday, December 19, 2011
The teams ready themselves for the start of the draft
The Commissioner stands at the podium. "Welcome to the 2008 NFL Draft here at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City! The Miami Dolphins are now on the clock."
Chris: "Alright the Dolphins are up first, and I must say they haven't really done much in free agency this season. I mean outside of Terrell Suggs and Donte Stallworth, who have they signed that's really worthwhile? Then there's the trade of their best offensive lineman to the Denver Broncos. Wow, the Broncos are the talk of the NFL these days with the signing of seven top-quality free agents and the trading of three more. Mel what do you make of all this?"
Mel: "Well Chris it's simple. The Broncos are simply trying to get younger and more talented than they have been in a long time. Sure they had to trade three veteran players John Lynch, Tom Nalen, and Jason Elam, but they're on the verge of retirement. Denver's new head coach, Daniel Mason, has done a stunning job signing some of the best possible talent out there. And now it looks like the Dolphins have made their selection."
"With the first pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins select.... Jake Long from the University of Michigan!!!" The crowd roars to life as Jake takes the stage with the Commissioner.
Chris: "You heard it right. The 'Fins have themselves a franchise left tackle in Jake Long. After losing out on both Alan Faneca and Jordan Gross in free agency, the 'Fins more than make up for it with this pick here. Now if only they had a franchise quarterback to go along with it, but hey beggars can't be choosers."
Meanwhile back in Denver, inside the Broncos' War Room Coach Mason and his GM Jim Treadway are discussing a possible trade. The Rams, Falcons and Raiders have all made their selections, and the Chiefs are now on the clock. Coach Mason hands the phone to Treadway. "Make the call," is all he says.
Chris: "Wait a minute folks it looks like there's some commotion going on around the Broncos and Chiefs' tables. It looks like we have a trade! Just a moment... I'm getting the details now... yes the Chiefs have agreed to trade this pick to the Broncos in exchange for the 42nd pick and their 1st and 2nd round picks for next year. And it seems they already have made their selection. Here's Commissioner Goddell now."
"With the fifth pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select... Keith Rivers from the University of Southern California!!!"
Mel: "You thought things were exciting when the Dolphins drafted Jake Long? Well the crowd is about to bring the house down after a stunning move by the Broncos to take the fifth pick and draft the best linebacker in the draft!!! Wow listen to them guys."
Keyshawn: "You want to know the best part? They still have the twelfth pick to trade up again if they so choose. Not only that but both the Broncos and Chiefs were scouting some of the same players leading up to the draft. This was more than just some simple "trade up to get who we want" trade; it's part of an actual strategy."
Chris: "I hope for your sake Keyshawn that you're right. For now Coach Mason has lived up to his personal goal of acquiring not one but two top quality outside linebackers."
Even though it's "No Admittance" in the Broncos' War Room, those on the outside are over the moon with this move by Mason and Treadway. Both men along OC Rick Dennison and DC Bob Slowik breathe a deep sigh of relief as none of them actually thought the Chiefs would actually go for it. As the draft continues on, other key players come off the board, but only one other player the coach is after.
"With the twelfth pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select... Ryan Clady from Boise State University!!!"
Instead of going through every pick in the first round I'm just going to post this:
And this:
Up Next: Final thoughts from the media and undrafted free agents.
Meanwhile back in Denver, inside the Broncos' War Room Coach Mason and his GM Jim Treadway are discussing a possible trade. The Rams, Falcons and Raiders have all made their selections, and the Chiefs are now on the clock. Coach Mason hands the phone to Treadway. "Make the call," is all he says.
Chris: "Wait a minute folks it looks like there's some commotion going on around the Broncos and Chiefs' tables. It looks like we have a trade! Just a moment... I'm getting the details now... yes the Chiefs have agreed to trade this pick to the Broncos in exchange for the 42nd pick and their 1st and 2nd round picks for next year. And it seems they already have made their selection. Here's Commissioner Goddell now."
"With the fifth pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select... Keith Rivers from the University of Southern California!!!"
Mel: "You thought things were exciting when the Dolphins drafted Jake Long? Well the crowd is about to bring the house down after a stunning move by the Broncos to take the fifth pick and draft the best linebacker in the draft!!! Wow listen to them guys."
Keyshawn: "You want to know the best part? They still have the twelfth pick to trade up again if they so choose. Not only that but both the Broncos and Chiefs were scouting some of the same players leading up to the draft. This was more than just some simple "trade up to get who we want" trade; it's part of an actual strategy."
Chris: "I hope for your sake Keyshawn that you're right. For now Coach Mason has lived up to his personal goal of acquiring not one but two top quality outside linebackers."
Even though it's "No Admittance" in the Broncos' War Room, those on the outside are over the moon with this move by Mason and Treadway. Both men along OC Rick Dennison and DC Bob Slowik breathe a deep sigh of relief as none of them actually thought the Chiefs would actually go for it. As the draft continues on, other key players come off the board, but only one other player the coach is after.
"With the twelfth pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select... Ryan Clady from Boise State University!!!"
Instead of going through every pick in the first round I'm just going to post this:
| 2008 NFL Draft - Round 1 Recap | |||||
| Pick | Team | Player | Pos | Ht | Wt |
| 1 | Miami Dolphins | Jake Long | LT | 6'7" | 313 |
| 2 | St. Louis Rams | Derrick Harvey | LE | 6'4" | 271 |
| 3 | Atlanta Falcons | Matt Ryan | QB | 6'5" | 218 |
| 4 | Oakland Raiders | Chris Long | RE | 6'3" | 275 |
| 5 | Denver Broncos (via Kansas City Chiefs) | Keith Rivers | WLB | 6'3" | 235 |
| 6 | New York Jets | Joe Flacco | QB | 6'7" | 222 |
| 7 | New England Patriots | Darren McFadden | HB | 6'0" | 210 |
| 8 | Baltimore Ravens | Leodis McKelvin | CB | 5'10" | 186 |
| 9 | Cincinnatti Bengals | Glenn Dorsey | DT | 6'1" | 310 |
| 10 | New Orleans Saints | Sedrick Ellis | DT | 6'1" | 295 |
| 11 | Detroit Lions (via Buffalo Bills) | Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie | CB | 6'1" | 181 |
| 12 | Denver Broncos | Ryan Clady | LT | 6'6" | 319 |
| 13 | Carolina Panthers | Jeff Otah | RT | 6'5" | 315 |
| 14 | Chicago Bears | Branden Albert | LG | 6'7" | 317 |
| 15 | Buffalo Bills (via Detroit Lions) | Vernon Gholston | WLB | 6'3" | 266 |
| 16 | Arizona Cardinals | Sam Baker | LT | 6'5" | 305 |
| 17 | Kansas City Chiefs | Chris Williams | LT | 6'6" | 315 |
| 18 | Houston Texans | Kentwan Balmer | DT | 6'5" | 288 |
| 19 | Philadelphia Eagles | Jerod Mayo | SLB | 6'2" | 233 |
| 20 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Antoine Cason | CB | 6'0" | 182 |
| 21 | Washington Redskins | Aqib Talib | CB | 6'2" | 180 |
| 22 | Dallas Cowboys | Duane Brown | LT | 6'5" | 290 |
| 23 | Pittsburgh Steelers | Mike Jenkins | CB | 6'0" | 200 |
| 24 | Tennessee Titans | John Carlson | TE | 6'6" | 250 |
| 25 | Seattle Seahawks | Dustin Keller | TE | 6'4" | 244 |
| 26 | Pittsburgh Steelers (via Jacksonville Jaguars) | Philip Merling | RE | 6'4 | 276 |
| 27 | San Diego Chargers | Gosder Cherilus | RT | 6'6" | 312 |
| 28 | Seattle Seahawks (via Dallas Cowboys) | Rashard Mendenhall | HB | 5'11" | 225 |
| 29 | San Francisco 49ers | Lawrence Jackson | LE | 6'4" | 271 |
| 30 | Green Bay Packers | Chris Johnson | HB | 5'10" | 198 |
| 31 | New York Giants | Tracy Porter | CB | 6'0" | 187 |
| 32 | Atlanta Falcons (via Miami Dolphins) | Brandon Flowers | CB | 5'10" | 190 |
And this:
| 2008 NFL Draft - Denver Broncos | |||||
| Pick | Player | College | Pos | Ht | Wt |
| 1-5 | Keith Rivers | USC | WLB | 6'3" | 230 |
| 1-12 | Ryan Clady | Boise State | LT | 6'6" | 319 |
| 2-4 | Limas Sweed | Texas | WR | 6'5" | 219 |
| 3-22 | Jermichael Finley | Texas | TE | 6'5" | 238 |
| 4-9 | Ahtyba Rubin | Iowa State | DT | 6'3" | 322 |
| 5-11 | Kevin Robinson | Utah State | WR | 6'4" | 210 |
| 5-28 | Alexis Serna | Oregon State | K | 5'8" | 170 |
| 6-30 | Chauncey Washington | USC | HB | 6'1" | 220 |
| 7-13 | Xavier Omon | NW Missouri State | HB | 5'8" | 211 |
| 7-20 | Kellen Davis | Mighigan State | TE | 6'6" | 253 |
Up Next: Final thoughts from the media and undrafted free agents.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Day 5 – Early on we get off to a hot start, signing RG Jake Scott to a 4 year, $21M deal with $7.5M in guaranteed money and no incentives, and RG Ben Noll to a 4 year, $19M deal with $5.5M in guaranteed money and no incentives.
Day 6 – The day wears on, and it looks like another quiet day at the Broncos HQ in Dove Valley, but hold on to your seat kids because another trade has just been finalized.
The Denver Broncos have finalized a trade with the Miami Dolphins. The Broncos have acquired C Samson Satele in exchange for LG Ben Hamilton, RG Chris Kuper and next year’s 7th round draft pick.
And on the seventh day, all was calm at Dove Valley, as Coach Mason and his men started making their plans for Pro Day Scouting and Individual Workouts in secret. A closed door meeting between the Head Coach, both coordinators, and the General Manager is interrupted by an intern carrying a small radio.
“Thanks for tuning in to the second half of my show. For those of you just tuning in, this is Gil Whiteley your host with probably the best media coverage of the situation down in Dove Valley in the entire country. With all the commotion going on around Broncos HQ, you’d think those so called “analysts” from ESPN would want a piece of our new head coach. All I can say is tough luck, because I’m going to break down their recent transactions from day one.
“Now trading long time players Jason Elam and Tom Nalen may have been a huge blow to the fans, but let’s get real here. Like Coach Mason said in his last press conference, they weren’t getting any younger. So getting draft picks for them was really the best we could hope for. Then the mother of all free agent signings, and probably the biggest thing to happen to this franchise since winning back-to-back Super Bowls, signing Nnamdi Asomugha from our hated rivals. This alone improves not only the defense but the team by fielding the only cornerbacks in the NFL that can truly be called shutdown corners. You put either him or Champ Bailey out there on an island with any receiver out there without any safety help, and ten times out of ten they’re going to break up the pass. Because of this, don’t be surprised for the Broncos to blitz with one or both safeties this year. And that’s another thing adding Ken Hamlin and Eugene Wilson; probably the one thing that doesn’t make much sense to me. Both these guys played in the 3-4 and have experience with that style of defense. Will they be able to adjust to our 4-3 to make an impact?
“Is it just me or was trading D.J. Williams a bit redundant? Yes adding Derrick Johnson was great, but D.J was the anchor in that front seven last year. Can DeMeco Ryans fill such a big gap; can he step up? Speaking of stepping up, I was almost afraid that Jordan Gross was going to have to do that from his usual right tackle spot and find a way to play all five positions along the offensive line. Thankfully, four of the five problems up front have been solved in a matter of three hours I hear. I suppose the Broncos’ front office wants to keep us in suspense come draft day with holes on both sides of the ball. They’re top three priorities going into draft day, that is if they don’t fill these holes with trades before draft day, #1 obviously right outside linebacker. Coach Mason has been spouting off about Keith Rivers since day one as head coach so that should be no surprise. Question is how far will he go to draft his dream player? #2 the ever crucial left tackle. Who’s going to protect Cutler’s blind spot? This one is a toss-up between Cutler’s old teammate Chris Williams, USC’s Sam Baker, and Boise State’s Ryan Clady. If I were to pull the trigger on a left tackle from this year’s draft minus Jake Long, I’d go with someone Cutler can trust immediately: Chris Williams. And finally their third biggest priority, well third, fourth and fifth in no particular order: wide receiver, defensive tackle, and I’m actually going to say kicker. Obviously not someone you’d go out of your way and draft normally, but a kicker late in the draft is plausible. Oh well I’ll get into that tomorrow as we are out of time. One last thing before I sign off…… Coach if you’re listening keep doing what you’re doing ‘cuz you’re turning heads in this town. Until tomorrow this is Gil Whiteley on AM 1510 Mile High Sports Radio signing off. Good Night Denver!!!!”
Friday, December 16, 2011
Free Agency
Day 1 – Before even any FA’s are sign I immediately start the trades with C Tom Nalen going to the Packers for their 2nd round pick from this year and next year’s 7th round pick. K Jason Elam was traded to the Seahawks for their 2008 3rd round and 2009 7th round picks. These trades gave us $73.74M to work with, but we weren’t done there. DT Albert Haynesworth returned to the Titans, but hold on what do we have here?
BREAKING NEWS
The Denver Broncos have signed former Oakland Raiders CB Nnamdi Asomugha to a 5 year, $42M deal with $18M in guaranteed money, but no incentives were discussed.
The Denver Broncos have signed former New England Patriots FS Eugene Wilson to a 5 year, $24M deal with $7.5M in guaranteed money. Wilson did not ask for any incentives.
Now with the NFL’s 2 best CB’s together in Denver, there are going to be a lot more safety blitzes since both Asomugha and Champ Bailey can shut down any receiver. Signing Wilson to FS means that trading John Lynch won’t hurt at all, that is if anyone would show any actual interest in Lynch. For now Lynch is my SS… for now.
Day 2 – With 2 of the game’s best DB’s already locked down, my attention starts to turn to the offense, primarily O-Line. LG Alan Faneca comes up, but he goes to the Chiefs. As good as he is, I’m looking for somebody that isn’t going to demand a major contract, and Faneca did. Sure I have $62.01M left to play with, but we’re not done with the trades.
BREAKING NEWS
The Denver Broncos have agreed to a trade with their division rival Kansas City Chiefs. The Broncos gain LOLB Derrick Johnson in exchange for John Lynch, and a pair of draft picks (2008 and 2009 5th round picks).
The Denver Broncos have signed former Carolina Panthers RT Jordan Gross to a 5 year, $37M deal with $14M in guaranteed money, but no incentives added.
Day 3 – ROLB Terrell Suggs came up toward the end of day 2, but the Dolphins snapped him up. I wasn’t about to pay him $7.2M for the first of a 3 year contract; he’s good but not that good. Just when you thought the trades were done in comes more…
BREAKING NEWS
The Denver Broncos have signed former Dallas Cowboys FS Ken Hamlin to a 4 year, $17M deal with $5.5M in guaranteed money. Once again no incentives.
Now with the 2 best FS’s off the FA market, the only logical thing to do is to slide one of them to the recently vacated SS position, which is what I do with Eugene Wilson, but I wasn’t done this day.
The Denver Broncos have signed former San Diego Chargers HB Michael Turner to a 4 year, $22M deal with $7.5M in guaranteed money and no incentives.
With Turner now on the team there was really no need to keep Selvin Young so…
The Denver Broncos have traded HB Selvin Young to the Detroit Lions for this year’s 5th round and next year’s 7th round picks.
Before the day was out, the coach called a press conference to answer the growing questions in the media.
Press Conference - 51 Days Until the Draft
Coach Mason stands before local reporters all eager to hear what he has to say. "I'm sure everyone is itching to ask their questions about the past three days, so I am going to jump straight to your questions."
Reporter 1 - "Talk about fast and furious, Coach. You really made a huge splash in just the first day, but why exactly did you trade John Lynch, Tom Nalen, and Jason Elam? They were all top quality players; surely you can shed some light for us?"
"I most certainly can shed some light on those trades. Let's be honest here: Lynch, Nalen and Elam are not getting any younger, so I felt it was best to make those trades to stock up on draft picks and acquire a young outside linebacker in Derrick Johnson."
Reporter 2 - "Speaking of linebackers, let's talk about D.J. Williams; one part of the best linebacking corps ever fielded by the Broncos as stated by you. Why trade him?"
"Ah I knew that would come up. D.J. for one reason or another has been inconsistent lately only managing 100 plus tackle seasons twice in four years and only four sacks total. DeMeco Ryans, on the other hand, has the potential to be part of something big with Derrick and another linebacker that has yet to be signed... or drafted."
Reporter 2 - "Is that a hint towards drafting Keith Rivers this season?"
Coach Mason smiles. "No comment. One last questions before I call it a night."
Reporter 3 - "With all these moves you've made to improve the defense, what about the offense?"
"I haven't forgotten about the offense. We're currently looking into some trades and free agents that we could acquire if the price is right. Stay tuned for what's in store from here til draft day."
Reporter 1 - "Talk about fast and furious, Coach. You really made a huge splash in just the first day, but why exactly did you trade John Lynch, Tom Nalen, and Jason Elam? They were all top quality players; surely you can shed some light for us?"
"I most certainly can shed some light on those trades. Let's be honest here: Lynch, Nalen and Elam are not getting any younger, so I felt it was best to make those trades to stock up on draft picks and acquire a young outside linebacker in Derrick Johnson."
Reporter 2 - "Speaking of linebackers, let's talk about D.J. Williams; one part of the best linebacking corps ever fielded by the Broncos as stated by you. Why trade him?"
"Ah I knew that would come up. D.J. for one reason or another has been inconsistent lately only managing 100 plus tackle seasons twice in four years and only four sacks total. DeMeco Ryans, on the other hand, has the potential to be part of something big with Derrick and another linebacker that has yet to be signed... or drafted."
Reporter 2 - "Is that a hint towards drafting Keith Rivers this season?"
Coach Mason smiles. "No comment. One last questions before I call it a night."
Reporter 3 - "With all these moves you've made to improve the defense, what about the offense?"
"I haven't forgotten about the offense. We're currently looking into some trades and free agents that we could acquire if the price is right. Stay tuned for what's in store from here til draft day."
Scouting Combine
K/P – Now I know I really didn’t go into detail about these positions, but here’s a chance for me to do so. OK granted I already have a proven kicker in Jason Elam, but it’s time for us to think about the future in many of our positions. That includes the kickers and punters; sorry but I really don’t see punter Sam Paulescu sticking around too much longer. Thusly, I’m going to give K Alexis Serna and P Durant Brooks a look. Reason: “I think Serna could do big things for us here in Denver, where our own Jason Elam managed to kick an NFL-tying 63 yard field goal. Yes, I did talk about the possibility of trading Elam, but there is still a chance we could keep him to help teach Serna until he retires. Durant Brooks seems like a kid that can come in here and compete with Sam Paulescu for the starting job, and Brooks might actually be available after the draft.”
QB – After the Senior Bowl and Dennis Dixon’s showing, there really wasn’t anyone else I was looking forward to try and drafting, until that is Josh Johnson became an option. Then maybe, I got to thinking, things could get very interesting if I had both Dixon and Johnson behind Cutler. After maybe 5 minutes of tossing this idea about, I decided to go with Flacco, Chad Henne, and Brian Brohm. Reason: Not really necessary here since I had already made it clear that Jay Cutler is my Franchise Quarterback, and anyone else is pretty much riding the bench.
HB/FB – No real reason to repeat myself about the Broncos’ need for a star HB this season. Anyone of the following guys can come in here and be a star: Darren McFadden, Felix Jones, Rashard Mendenhall, Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, and Ray Rice. Reason: “McFadden and Jones have made quite the names for themselves out of Arkansas, and either one would tear it up in Denver. A more likely candidate at the tailback position would be Rashard Mendenhall out of Illinois. His combination of size, speed, and power would make him the featured back for years to come. I really liked watching Johnson and Forte back in the Senior Bowl, and they seem to be an easier tandem to acquire in the draft. Last but not least is Ray Rice. Granted the kid is pretty small, but he plays bigger than he really is.”
WR/TE – In keeping in line with the whole “Height + Speed =
” bit, I decided to look at Avery and Royal again, but one of the best tall WR’s Limas Sweed was available to scout, so I took a shot with him. Jerome Simpson was another WR I wanted to look at. TE’s are another concern of mine, thus I continued to scout Fred Davis, but I also added Jermichael Finley. Reason: “Avery and Royal are deviously fast, but perhaps speed isn’t all we need. Limas Sweed is one of the tallest receivers at the combine. He has impressed scouts all year, and may continue his success for the Broncos on 2008. Jerome Simpson is one player I’m not too familiar with, but he’s drawn many comparisons to the Colts’ star wide receiver Reggie Wayne. Let’s hope he lives up to those expectations. Fred Davis impressed me at the Senior Bowl and looks to be a favorite of mine coming into the combine, but my GM has turned my eyes to Jermichael Finley. The University of Texas looks to be one of the places to find quality players in the key positions we need.”In the middle of Combine Scouting, 7 days before Free Agency opens up, comes the one time some coaches get excited about (but not me mind you): Restricted Free Agency. First up, CB Karl Paymah. In his 3 years, he really hasn’t done a whole lot to warrant a tender from me, so he’s the first to go.
LB – Since Keith Rivers didn’t attend the combine, I decided skip scouting here. Vernon Gholston and Jerod Mayo aren’t that impressive to me when compared to Rivers.
D-Line – Now since my GM sucks in his ability to actually scout, giving me only 2 choices to scout the D-Line, this is really hard. Glenn Dorsey, Chris Long, and Derrick Harvey would generate some real pressure, but then what’re the odds of me being able to draft any 2 of those 3? So I decided to look further down the lists to Calais Campbell and Dre Moore. Now I have actually been able to draft Campbell in the past, but I used him in a 3-4. Needless to say it was a darn good draft that day. I never once scouted Moore, instead going with Ahtyba Rubin and Frank Okam, but we’ll see how it all pans out. Reason: Like I said before… WE NEED HELP!!!!!
RFA decision #2 pops up, and this time it’s CB Domonique Foxworth’s turn. He is a better CB than Paymah and has more potential than current #2 on the depth chart Dre’ Bly. I think he’s worth a level 1 tender. If he proves it to me next season as the nickel back.
DB’s – Again, no real pressing need here with the FA pool looking so good, but if you must know I went ahead and scouted Leodis McKelvin, Mike Jenkins, Brandon Flowers, and Kenny Phillips.
RFA decision #3 is Hamza Abdullah, a Strong Safety that wasn’t really impressive in his 3 years with the team. I don’t even bother to tender him.
With Free Agency so close I take one last look at who’s available, this time at each position and set myself up to make a splash this time around.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
QB’s – No real need here as far as a starter, but having a young backup doesn’t hurt at all. So I give Joe Flacco, Dennis Dixon, and John David Booty a look-see. Reason: “I’ve always liked John as an athlete, but I haven’t had a chance take a good look at him since I left USC in ’06. Dennis Dixon…… ah two words that are almost always the bane of the Trojan faithful again since my departure. He could make a great change of pace option from starter Jay Cutler and his gunslinger mentality. And finally, Joe Flacco is one my GM Jim Treadway said was like Cutler, except bigger; sort of like Ben Rothelisberger I suppose. All I knew is that my GM liked this kid, although I’m not sold on guys from the small schools.”
HB/FB – With Selvin Young and Mike Bell, one would think we would be set at the tailback position, but not so fast. Denver has not had a 1,000 yard back since Clinton Portis came to town in 2002. So at HB I scout Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, and Tashard Choice, and at FB Jacob Hester, Owen Schmitt, and Peyton Hillis. Reason: “Mike Shanahan has had great success with running backs drafted in the later rounds, the best being Terrell Davis in the 6th round, but quality backs are lacking this season. Anyone worth drafting might be long gone before the 4th round. We need impact players, and Chris Johnson and Matt Forte just might fit that bill. Johnson has elite speed and agility, but Forte may actually fit our system better. Tashard Choice is sort of my wild card here at the Senior Bowl, so it’ll be interesting to see if he lives up to the hype building around him. Fullbacks on the other hand are not a pressing need for us in Denver since we just moved Daniel Graham to fullback. Jacob Hester, Owen Schmitt, or Peyton Hillis could fill in should Graham get hurt. Hester and Hillis have both been successful in the run game; Hester rushed for over 1,000 yards his senior season, and Hillis blocked for this draft’s top running back, Darren McFadden, while putting up some impressive numbers himself. Schmitt seems to be another favorite of Jim’s. I’m not sure what it is, but perhaps Schmitt could even be the power back we lack here in Denver.”
WR/TE – Brandon Marshall is Cutler’s favorite target, but after him there literally is no one else; to compliment his height I decided to scout Donnie Avery, Eddie Royal, and Marcus Smith at WR. TE’s in free agency are pretty scarce this time, and with only Tony Scheffler left standing at that position on the Broncos I felt it necessary to scout Fred Davis to see if he can become part of a tag team of receiving TE’s with Scheffler. Reason: “Marshall is a very talented young man from Central Florida, but he can’t do it all. Height is essential for receivers in our style of offense, but maybe some speed would make for a dangerous partner to Marshall’s height. Enter Donnie Avery and Eddie Royal; both speedy and explosive receivers that can stretch defenses out. Avery is known more for his big-play ability than Royal, but Royal can also double as a return man. Marcus Smith is from my alma mater of the University of New Mexico, and has been quite the receiver for coach Rocky Long. Like Marshall, he has height, which could spell trouble for opposing cornerbacks trying to outreach them. As for tight ends, Tony Scheffler is all we have left. Yes he is athletic, but what if we had two tight ends that can create mismatches by making themselves big targets for Cutler? That’s why Fred Davis could be a good fit in our system. He was a rather troublesome young man early on in his collegiate career but has since turned that around to become a solid player.”
O-Line – The only group of players that doesn’t speak to the press (their choice), the O-Line has been looking kind of wanting lately, with only Ben Hamilton and Tom Nalen holding things together in recent years. Tackles and guards are the priority here, thus scouting Sam Baker, Gosder Cherilus, Chris Williams, and Mike Pollak. Reason: “Sam Baker has been a phenomenal left tackle for USC even when I was still there. He would be a much cheaper option than Jake Long should Long actually fall to us at the twelfth pick in the draft, which I seriously doubt. Gosder Cherilus is another guy I like, this time at right tackle. He’s done a superb job protecting the top QB in this year’s draft, Matt Ryan. Chris Williams is a surprising left tackle that actually protected Cutler’s blind side back at Vanderbilt; perhaps he can do that here in Denver for his old college teammate. Mike Pollak could be our team’s next center as Tom Nalen looks to retire. Either that or he can slide out to guard should we sign someone else at center.”
D-Line – Where do I really start here? The Broncos have not had any major threats in the pass rush until they added Elvis Dumervil, but he needs someone on the other side to generate some pressure too. On the interior is where a lot of cuts were made defensively (3 in total), and Marcus Thomas hasn’t shown much ability to stuff the run. This is where the USC duo of Sedrick Ellis and Lawrence Jackson would fit very nicely; even if they don’t pan out they won’t be that expensive to cut, and they’re trade value would be pretty good too. Reason: I don’t really have to say this in character; WE NEED HELP!!!!!!
LB’s – Two words: Keith Rivers. Anybody else scouted here is irrelevant. Reason (take it away coach!): “Wow. Keith “The Shark” Rivers out of USC has been learning under the watchful eyes of San Francisco 49ers linebacking great Ken Norton, Jr. I spoke with Ken last season, and he said Rivers is a beast. As part of their “Club 55” at USC (side note: only a linebacker that has the potential of becoming a USC football and NFL great is given the number 55) along with Junior Seau and Willie McGinest, Rivers has proven himself to become a force in the NFL. Just hope he’s available at #12; otherwise I just might have to trade up for him.”
DB’s – With Champ Bailey and his ability to shut down any WR in the game, and with Nnamdi Asomugha and Asante Samuel in the FA pool, there’s no huge reason to draft at the CB position this year. Top that off Eugene Wilson and Ken Hamlin are both quality FS’s that can slide over to SS if need be. Conclusion: no real need to scout here. Moving on.
I’m not going to even bother going in-depth with who I am scouting special teams wise at the Senior Bowl, but Alexis Serna is my only choice.
Scouting Results/Coach’s Thoughts:
QB – Booty (“Wow that kid really struggled out there to perform. Perhaps things weren’t all that great at USC after all.”) Flacco ( “Only problem is his ability to assess the situation, so far.”) Dixon (“Yes, Dixon may just be what I’m looking for in a QB to make plays with his feet. He could make a nice counter-part to Cutler.”)
HB/FB – Johnson (“This young man will make people miss by juking or spinning out of tackles.”) Forte (“They weren’t kidding when they said he has some power in his legs.”) Choice (“He seems lost in the backfield at times, but sometimes gets lucky juking defenders.”) Hester (“Perhaps not what we’re looking for as a blocking fullback, but he can still make plays carrying the ball.”) Schmitt (“Not a strong ball carrier or blocker; average at best.”) Hillis (“Are you sure he blocked for Darren McFadden?”)
WR/TE – Avery and Royal (“Both these guys can make plays on the ball and looked impressive all weekend.”) Smith (“Hmmm, I’m not sure how he was taught to catch at UNM, but I know he can do better.”) Davis (“Now that’s what I like to see in a USC tight end. Granted not too good of a blocker, but that’s not what I’m looking for.”)
OL – Williams (“It’s easy to see why Cutler was successful in Vanderbilt when they played together.”) Baker (“Maybe not the LT I’m looking for to protect Cutler’s blind side, but he can be an impact in the run game.”) Pollak (“Average at best; maybe better to move him to guard.”) Cherilus (“I thought he was better than what he showed at the Senior Bowl…”)
DL – Jackson (“He truly would benefit from taking the LE spot here in Denver.”) Ellis (“Can cause trouble in the middle; could even break loose and get after the QB.”)
LB – Rivers (“This kid is the total package. He can cover sideline to sideline and then lay down the law with bone-shattering hits. Very disruptive force and looks like he can be moved anywhere along the defensive front.”)
Overall: Not a bad day at the Senior Bowl. Learned quite a bit about the players that could make an immediate contribution to the team. On offense, Avery and Royal were surprising since I never really paid attention to how well they caught the ball in previous dynasties I ran before joining the site. Cherilus was a disappointment since I thought he was a better pass blocker. Defensively, Lawrence Jackson open my eyes a little bit, seeing as I never actually scouted him during the Senior Bowl. Rivers was no surprise of course, but I’ve only drafted him at the #12 spot maybe once or twice. I’m still debating whether to draft a CB or sign a free agent… Oh well onward we march to the Scouting Combine!!!!!
Philosophies
QB = Strong Arm/Tools (3 minimum)
HB = Balanced (4 minimum)
FB = Blocking (1 minimum)
WR = Tall/Red Zone Threat (5 minimum)
TE = Soft Hands/Routes (3 minimum)
OL = Zone Blocking (minimum 4 OT’s and OG’s; minimum 2 C’s)
DE = Undersized Speed Rusher (4 minimum)
DT = Run Stopper (4 minimum)
LB = Balanced (minimum 4 OLB’s; minimum 3 MLB’s)
CB = Man Coverage/Ballhawk (5 minimum)
FS = Centerfielder (2 minimum)
SS = Balanced (2 minimum)
Skills: All offensive skills up to Level 2, with QB skills set to Level 3; Strategy & Play Call Level 2; Team Chemistry Level 3
| Denver Broncos Depth Chart - 2008 | ||||
| Regular Offense | ||||
| STARTER | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | |
| WR | Brandon Marshall (93) | Glenn Martinez (79) | ||
| TE | Daniel Graham (74) | Tony Scheffler (81) | Nate Jackson (66) | Stephen Alexander (60) |
| LT | Ryan Harris (82) | |||
| LG | Ben Hamilton (84) | Mark Fenton (56) | ||
| C | Tom Nalen (90) | |||
| RG | Chris Kuper (77) | Montrae Holland (69) | ||
| RT | Erik Pears (79) | Isaac Snell (73) | ||
| WR | Brandon Stokley 77) | |||
| QB | Jay Cutler (90) | Patrick Ramsey (74) | ||
| FB | Cecil Sapp (59) | Mike Bell (58) | ||
| HB | Selvin Young (86) | Andre Hall (77) | ||
| Base 4-3 Defense | ||||
| STARTER | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | |
| LDE | Tim Crowder (84) | Jarvis Moss (80) | John Engleberger (72) | |
| LDT | Marcus Thomas (86) | Kenny Peterson (67) | ||
| RDT | Alvin McKinley (72) | Josh Mallard (60) | ||
| RDE | Elvis Dumervil (90) | Ebenezer Ekuban (74) | ||
| WLB | Jamie Winborn (71) | |||
| MLB | D.J. Williams (86) | Jordan Beck (74) | ||
| SLB | Nate Webster (73) | Louis Green (66) | ||
| CB | Champ Bailey (93) | Domonique Foxworth (81) | ||
| SS | Nick Ferguson (76) | Hamza Abdullah (77) | ||
| FS | John Lynch (89) | |||
| CB | Dre' Bly (79) | Karl Paymah (74) | ||
| Special Teams | ||||
| STARTER | 2ND | 3RD | 4TH | |
| K | Jason Elam (93) | |||
| P | Sam Paulescu (79) | |||
| PR | Glenn Martinez | |||
| KR | Andre Hall | Glenn Martinez | ||
So without any qualms, I start shaking things up by making cuts left and right. QB Patrick Ramsey is the first to go, only costing us $290K in penalties but saving us $2.12M in money for the current cap. One of the biggest troubles I had was debating whether or not to cut TE Daniel Graham as he takes up over $5M in cap room, but I’d take a hit of $12M in penalties doing so. It got me thinking what to do with him. As I was playing around with the depth chart to see if anyone would do better at another position than the one they’re currently in, I remembered the Broncos actually acquired Mike Bell as a halfback, and he did pretty well. So I moved him (OA 71/POT 85) and Cecil Sapp (OA 71/POT 71) to HB and then took a look at Graham’s abilities: great run blocking and average pass blocking! Immediately I moved him from TE to FB (OA 85/POT 87) and that alone made him more deserving of his expensive contract (5yrs $30M/$15M bonus; 4yrs left). Defensively, I went pretty crazy with players being cut as long as they weren’t too expensive (freaking Dre’ Bly; cutting him would cost me $12M) or necessary for what I have in mind for my defense (Dumervil and Thomas need some talent to help the D-Line become a force to be reckoned with). The lone LB, D.J. Williams could move to any of the OLB positions if a solid MLB can be found either by trade or Free Agency. Also I took another look and I actually cut a lot of players under 30 years old.
| Players Cut | ||||||
| # | OFFENSE | POS | AGE | HT | WT | COLLEGE |
| 11 | Patrick Ramsey | QB | 29 | 6'2" | 217 | Tulane |
| 23 | Andre Hall | HB | 25 | 5'10" | 212 | Southern Florida |
| 14 | Brandon Stokley | WR | 31 | 5'11" | 197 | Lousiana-Lafayette |
| 17 | Glenn Martinez | WR | 25 | 6'2" | 182 | Saginaw Valley |
| 81 | Nate Jackson | TE | 28 | 6'3" | 235 | N/A |
| 85 | Chad Mustard | TE | 29 | 6'6" | 265 | N/A |
| 65 | Mark Fenton | LG | 23 | 6'4" | 295 | Colorado |
| 70 | Montrae Holland | RG | 27 | 6'2" | 333 | Florida State |
| 72 | Isaac Snell | RT | 25 | 6'6" | 288 | North Dakota State |
| # | DEFENSE | POS | AGE | HT | WT | COLLEGE |
| 99 | Alvin McKinley | DT | 29 | 6'3" | 310 | Mississippi State |
| 97 | Kenny Peterson | DT | 28 | 6'3" | 285 | Ohio State |
| 98 | Josh Mallard | DT | 27 | 6'2" | 259 | Georgia |
| 58 | Nate Webster | LOLB | 26 | 6' | 230 | Miami |
| 53 | Louis Green | LOLB | 27 | 6'3" | 228 | Alcorn State |
| 57 | Jordan Beck | MLB | 24 | 6'2" | 233 | California Polytechnic State University |
| 51 | Jamie Winborn | ROLB | 28 | 5'11" | 242 | Vanderbilt |
Franchise Tag time, and really the only player worth tagging is Kicker Jason Elam. He’s at 93 OA, but he’s also 37 years old. It’d probably better to trade him and find another kicker via free agency, maybe the draft. So I go ahead and tag him for $2.4M. The Bears also tag ROLB Lance Briggs, which was a disappointment since all we needed to do is find one other OLB and we would be set. Here are the other players to be tagged this off-season:
Giants – K Lawrence Tynes
Patriots – WR Randy Moss
Seahawks – CB Marcus Trufant
This makes for a very interesting FA period as there are a LOT of quality players that can immediately come and play for us this year. With $70.58M in available cap room after all the cuts I made ($78.89M if all players mentioned earlier are traded), the Broncos are looking to make a splash. The question is: whom will they sign? Here are the top-15 free agents this season excluding Kickers and Punters, and I must say there is some quality free agents this off-season.
Albert Haynesworth – DT – 94OA
Alan Faneca – LG – 93OA
Jordan Gross – RT – 92OA
Asante Samuel – CB – 92OA
Nnamdi Asomugha – CB – 91OA
Eugene Wilson – FS – 89OA
Marion Barber – HB – 89OA – RFA
Terrell Suggs – ROLB – 88OA
Jake Scott – RG – 87OA
Ken Hamlin – FS – 87OA
Jeff Faine – C – 86OA
Michael Boley – LOLB – 86OA – RFA
Ben Noll – RG – 85 OA
Shaun Alexander – HB – 85OA
Randall Gay – CB – 84OA
Denver Broncos – The Untold Story
Life as UNM’s quarterback coach was never easy as he would always be looking for quarterbacks out of high school that were like him in his heyday; intelligent and always situationally aware with a good arm, yet still able to make plays with their feet. Prospects like that were always difficult to find in-state, and all those that actually fit what the coach was looking for out of state went elsewhere. Years went by and his success was varied in college as the coach went from UNM’s QB coach to their Offensive Coordinator. During the 90’s, however, he was offered to coach in the NFL with the expansion Jacksonville Jaguars under Jack Del Rio, but the coach declined as he was in line for the head coaching job at his alma mater. He has seen his best mentor Dennis Franchione depart for Texas Christian University, but was shafted once again on December 20, 1997 when the UNM athletic department signed their star QB from 1969-71 Rocky Long to coach the team. Hurt by this decision, the coach threw his hat in the pro ring not sure who would snap him up.
Super Bowl XXXII had finished and the coach had watched the team he could have been a QB for all those years ago win their first Super Bowl. Off-season began for teams around the NFL, and things were looking pretty grim for a pro coaching career for the longtime QB coach-turned OC of the New Mexico Lobos. With no luck, he decided to coach his son’s high school team, which ironically enough was the same high school he attended in the 70’s. During his tenure the Highland Hornets actually garnered national attention as an elite school, having won 3 Division 5A state titles and making the state playoffs in each of his years as head coach for the Hornets, and his son was recruited by the University of Southern California underneath newly signed head coach Pete Carroll in 2001. After the end of his son’s senior season, he was approached by the USC athletic department to join Carroll and his son. Confused at first, the coach signed a small, 2-year contract, and is quoted for saying, “I may be here since my son kind of dragged me here, but he’s going to have to work at it like the rest of our guys lining up under center this season.” Those 2 years ended up stretching themselves out to 2004 when the dominance of the USC was capped with a National Title over Oklahoma; 2005 looked to be a shot at back-to-back National Championships, but the Trojans lost to the Texas Longhorns.
After coaching both Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart at QB, and running back Reggie Bush to Heisman Trophies, the coach felt really accomplished and confident going into the 2006 season with USC as they were primed to go for another National Title with John David Booty freshly recovered from off-season back surgery. All systems were go until he received a call from Ted Sundquist, the General Manager of the Denver Broncos. No one exactly knows the details of their conversation, but one thing is certain someone in the organization actually remembered the ’83 draft and how Kubiak was drafted instead of him. Long story short, Kubiak, who was the OC underneath 2-time Super Bowl winning HC Mike Shanahan, moved on to coach the expansion Houston Texans. Overjoyed, USC’s OC was psyched to enter the 2006 draft given the chance to run the offense for the Broncos, hoping to draft either one of his former players from USC in Leinart and Bush.
As the coach, Shanahan, Sundquist, and defensive coordinator Larry Coyer sat in the War Room on draft day with the 15th pick in the first round, Shanahan and Sundquist had a plan. They managed to trade up to the 11th pick and draft Vanderbilt QB Jay Cutler after missing out on Leinart only one pick prior as he headed for the Arizona Cardinals. Drafting Cutler was a huge surprise for everyone in the organization, even for Cutler himself. With Jake Plummer and young Jay Cutler as his “style” of QB’s, the OC was excited to get things started. Sadly, the Broncos missed the playoffs, losing a wild card spot to the Kansas City Chiefs. Cutler got the start in week 13 and looked promising closing out the season. The 2007 draft showed some promise while addressing the issue of pass rushing on the defensive line with the additions of DE’s Jarvis Moss (Florida, 1st round #17) and Tim Crowder (Texas, 2nd round #56). However, the Broncos finished 7-9 with Cutler passing for nearly 3,500 yards and 25 TD’s. Rumor had it after missing the playoffs again meant the winds of change began to stir in the Mile High City….
Pat Bowlen, owner of the Denver Broncos, called a meeting during the off season and decided to make a change in the organization by promoting the Executive VP of Business Operations Joe Ellis up to the Chief Operating Officer, making him Bowlen’s right hand man. After only making the playoffs 4 times since their long-time franchise QB John Elway retired in 1999, Shanahan’s job was on the line. The offense was improving with top-flight receiver Brandon Marshall being Cutler’s favorite target, but the defense suffered, even with key players such as Champ Bailey (CB), John Lynch (FS), and D.J. Williams (OLB). After the meeting Bowlen pulled aside both the OC and Shanahan, and looked them both in their eyes. Not a single word had to be spoken before Shanahan knew it was time for him to move on. Finally, Bowlen turned to his new head coach and said, “Joe (Ellis) was our Director of Marketing back in ’83 before I bought the team, and he remembers the team’s talks of drafting you instead Gary (Kubiak) out of little ol’ UNM. The gentleman I purchased the team from never did tell me why that decision was made, but I think making you our new head coach more than makes up for it. Now I’m going to go talk to our PR department and set up a press conference to announce your promotion.” As he leaves, the coach recalls that fateful day back in ’83 and chuckles to himself. “Now’s my chance,” he whispers to himself.
Press Conference – February 14, 2008
Pat Bowlen, dressed in his Sunday’s best, started the press conference off with reporters eagerly awaiting the owner’s words. “Today marks a turning point in our historic franchise. Mike Shanahan has been relieved as our head coach, and we have decided to promote from within rather than searching for someone from the outside. This man has been our offensive coordinator since 2006, but long before he was a coach for us, heck even long before joining Pete Carroll at USC in 2001, he was a quarterback. A young and spry quarterback from then little known University of New Mexico eagerly waiting for a chance in the NFL back in 1983. Yes the same year we acquired both John Elway and Gary Kubiak to be our quarterbacks. As no one in here knows, the front office back in ’83 were actually talking about taking the UNM prospect rather than Kubiak, but now that is all ancient history as I proudly introduce the twelfth head coach of our Denver Broncos…. Mr. Daniel Mason!!!” Camera’s flash and the room erupts in cheers as Daniel enters the room, fighting back tears of joy with a huge smile on his face as he takes the podium for his first statement as head coach.
“Well…” he started taking in a deep breath, “never did I think back in 1983 when I took that job as UNM’s quarterback coach after missing out on the NFL Draft that I would be standing here as the Head Coach of one of the more historical franchises in the history of football, and a favorite of mine since I was a kid… Colorado’s own Denver Broncos!!!” The room erupts again in cheers and this time it takes the crowd of reporters and a few dozen fans allowed in the press room quite a few moments to quiet down. Daniel raises his hands, and the crowd settles themselves back into their seats. “Now I know everyone is wondering what changes I am going to be making to the team after Shanahan’s departure, and the first thing to improve is our defense. We have the basis of a strong 4-3 defense, with defensive ends Elvis Dumervil and Tim Crowder providing a decent pass rush, but we need more help along the interior of the defensive line. Marcus Thomas is good, don’t get me wrong, but he needs someone else reliable to help him plug up the middle.
“During Shanahan’s time, he managed to field arguably the best linebacking corps in the NFL with Al Wilson, Ian Gold and D.J. Williams when I was hired on as the offensive coordinator, but now only D.J remains. I feel that is my biggest priority when trying to improve this defense is to acquire not one but two quality linebackers in either free agency or the draft this season. Our defensive backfield is starting to show its age with free safety John Lynch at 36, and Champ Bailey recently turning 30. With these two veterans I feel they are the foundation of a DB group that can cause mishaps for opposing quarterbacks and receivers. On offense we have an up-and-coming group of players mingled well within core veterans. Jay Cutler is our franchise quarterback, and will be for years to come, but questions need to be answered at the tailback position. Yes Selvin Young is a promising young running back, but he needs someone to tag-team with, perhaps someone with power to compliment his speed. I’m not going to outwardly bash our group of fullbacks for those were the decisions of the previous coaching staff, but some improvement is needed there also. Our receiving corps is led by the impressive Brandon Marshall, the likes of whom I was able to draft back when I took the offensive coordinator’s job in 2006. After him there isn’t really anyone that opposing defenses truly fear.” Several boos started to rise from the back of the room as fans said their piece about Daniel’s comments. “I know, I know. It’s not what you wanted to hear, but I’m not going to sugar coat it nor am I going to bash my predecessor. We need to move forward, ladies and gentlemen, not only as a team and a franchise but together as a city. You have been searching long and hard for someone to fill the void that the great John Elway left when he retired after winning his second Super Bowl; you’ve been looking for another Terrell Davis, but most of all you as fans have been looking for another reason to believe in this organization. You all have been dreaming of the day the Lombardi Trophy would return to the Mile High City, and so have I. That is why I guarantee by the end of this decade we will bring home another Lombardi Trophy to place alongside the pair left by Elway and Shanahan.” All the seats in the room immediately empty as the crowd is on their feet in a standing ovation at Daniel’s last statements.
Over the roar of cheers, whistling, and outright joy Daniel adds one final comment: “Now I am sure the press has a bunch of questions for me as to roster changes and the like, and all I am going to say is to keep your heads on a swivel because things around here are about to get fast and furious. Thank you for your time today folks. Now it’s time to get serious.” Coach Mason makes his exit waving and smiling as the PR crew do their job to end the press conference.
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