On day three of the London 2012 Olympic Games Missy Franklin, a Colorado native, won the gold in the Women's 100m Backstroke! She visited with the at the Bronco's HQ back in June meeting a couple of friends including Peyton Manning and Eric Decker.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Missy Franklin wins the gold!
On day three of the London 2012 Olympic Games Missy Franklin, a Colorado native, won the gold in the Women's 100m Backstroke! She visited with the at the Bronco's HQ back in June meeting a couple of friends including Peyton Manning and Eric Decker.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Broncos players visit Aurora shooting victims
Bronco players visited with victims of the Aurora shooting at the Medical Center of Aurora on Sunday. Left tackle Ryan Clady, right guard Chris Kuper, wide receiver Eric Decker, tight end Jacob Tamme, linebacker Joe Mays, defensive end Ben Garland, and the retired Brian Dawkins were present. Peyton Manning also called the victims on a one-by-one basis earlier in the day. Twelve were killed and 59 injured in the tragedy.
“It was just such a tragic event,” Mays said. “You just wish that things like that never happened, but it did and my heart goes out to all the family members and loved ones. Today, we just wanted to come here and speak to those that were in the hospital and just talk to them a little bit. We just wanted to show extra support to them.”
The players spent time with the victims listening to story after story and learning about some connections with a few of them.
They first met with Steve Barton, who was biking across the country when the event happened. The players grouped up in the room with his family and his friend Evan Rodriguez-Torrent ,also on the biking trip with Steve.
“We just wanted to come out show support and to be able to crack a smile with these guys -- it’s good to see that they’re making progress,” Decker said. “I think they’re excited to get out of here, but it’s just good to see a smile on their face.”
The next victim they met with was Carey Rottman, who has a gunshot wound in his leg.
After a while the conversation with Rottman turned to football and right guard Chris Kuper learned of a connection the two had. Rottman played runningback at Winona State, and his team played against Kuper's North Dakota team.
“It meant the world,” Rottman said. “Especially with some of the guys I had a connection with through college football – we knew a lot of the same people and that just brings them down to more of a real level. It’s surreal.”
The two continued talking and talked about their games and Rottman discovered a few of his friends played with Decker and Mays in North Dakota State and Minnesota.
"We’re just here to show support for the medical staff and some of the victims and just kind of do what we can to help people,” Kuper said. “Hopefully we can lift someone’s spirits after such a tragedy.”
Next up the players met up with Josh Nowlen, who is an Iraq war veteran. Nowlen jumped on his friends to protect them. He suffered hits to his arm and leg.
While talking with Nowlen and the family, the players found out they were talking with Patriots fans. The two groups were not on the same page with teams, but each left with a smile on their face.
“A lot of these victims are in great spirits and just happy and blessed to be alive,” Clady said.
The seven players also spent time with the emergency room staff, who first treated the patients.
“We’re just thrilled to have the Broncos here to visit with the patients and uplift their spirits as well as the staff that was here,” Acting President of the Medical Center of Aurora Bill Voloch said. “There’s no doubt it helps the patients in every way. As they’re trying to recover from their injuries, it’s just a wonderful thing for the players to be able to come down and visit with them.”
The players felt that coming to visit the patients before training camp was the least they could do.
“When a tragedy happens to us as people, what I quickly do is think, ‘What if that was me? What if that was my brother? Or what if that was a friend going through that?’” Dawkins said. “It’s such a surreal thing that can happen in any place. So, I wanted to get in here and visit as many people as I could as quickly as possible to just bring a smile to their faces in the midst of what they’re going through right now.”
Ben Garland, a Colorado native, extended Dawkins thoughts.
"Colorado is a tight community,” he said. “We just wanted to come together and do anything we could for these victims. It’s been a tough summer for everyone, so if we can do even a small part just to help them out, we will.”
Ryan Clady offered contract extension
Broncos All-Pro left tackle has reportedly been offered a five-year $50 million deal. The contract extension includes $28 million guaranteed according to an NFL source.
The talks began in May, and if Clady takes the offer he would be included in one of the five richest offensive lineman in football, based on annual salary. This upcoming year he is to earn $3.5 million; if he accepts the offer he will earn $10 million.
Since he was drafted with the 12th pick in the 2008 NFL Draft Clady has played all 66 regular season and playoff games. In that time he has only missed 15 regular-season snaps. In his rookie year he earned his All-Pro status when he did not allow one sack all year long, and he went to the Pro Bowl in the 2009 and 2011 seasons.
Denver is trying hard to keep the former Boise St. Bronco and have him guard Manning's blindside. Here's hoping Clady stay a Bronco and retires as one too.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Denver's teams and players send condolences to those affected by Aurora shooting
No one would have thought that the flag at the White House would have been lowered to half-staff on July 20, 2012. Unfortunately there was such an event that made this happen.
On July 20, the new Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" started playing at midnight in theaters across America. In Aurora, Colorado, a former honor student and recent graduate school dropout by the name of James Holmes walked in prepared and disguised wearing black with a bullet proof helmet and vest, ballistic leggings, throat and groin protector, black tactical gloves, a gas mask, and had three weapons on him. He cast off two smoke grenades then opened fire killing 12 and injuring 59.
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| Zach Golditch remarkably walked away after stray bullet went right through him |
His family and friends never suspected this kind of action from Holmes as he was described as "quiet and easy-going" and never had problems; he was also described as "respectful". Holmes barely talked and did not socialize. As one man said, "No one knew him. No one."
Denver's teams and players payed respect to those effected in the shooting on twitter and through other ways:
The Colorado Rockies made a jersey remembering the sad event.
The Broncos said this in a statement:
"Our deepest, most heartfelt condolences go out to the victims of this horrific tragedy in our community"
Many Bronco players sent their prayers as well on Twitter and Facebook:
Ben Garland: "I was planning on attending that exact movie in that theater but changed my mind. Thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims."
Ryan Clady: "Thoughts and prayers to the victims in the shooting in Colorado. Sad day"
Zane Beadles: "Deeply saddened by the Aurora shooting. A bit of anger too. Prayers to all those affected. #tragic"
Terrell Davis: "My heart goes out to all of the victims of the Aurora, Colorado movie theater shooting last night. Just a senseless act by a coward. #tragic"
Willis McGahee: "My thoughts and prayers are with my Denver family - can't believe the news of this mass shooting in Aurora - this is crazy"
Former Bronco Eddie Royal: "Sick to my stomach hearing about the senseless tragedy in Aurora, CO last night... My thoughts and prayers are with those effected. Really puts in perspective how insignificant our daily stresses are..."
Former Bronco Tim Tebow: "My prayers go out to all the families and friends of the victims of the terrible tragedy that took place in Aurora, CO. Psalm 23"
The Denver Nuggets: "Our thoughts are with all of those affected by last night's tragedy in Aurora, CO."
Holmes was taken into custody "without any significant incident" as Aurora police chief Dan Oates said.
In the link below is a video of people frantically getting away and scary phone calls.
http://widget.newsinc.com/_cfvp/playlist16x9_player.html?CID=994&WID=10812&VID=23750245&freewheel=90115&sitesection=denverpost_nws_us_sec&external_url=http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_21118947/
Holmes told police about explosives in his home which caused the police to evacuate five nearby buildings.
If you want to learn more about the bomb in his apartment the link is below.
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_21118947/
My own thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and friends in the shooting. May God be with them.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Numbers show Williams is worthy to keep
Is D.J. Williams really worth it to have him be released? Sure he has been arrested for multiple issues he's had and tweeted a photo of the team's playbook, but according to stats shown by Pro Football Focus he's been one of the most productive linebackers since 2009.
From 2009 to 2011 he's had 304 tackles (tenth most in the NFL) and is the eleventh best tackling linebacker throughout the entire NFL. When pass rushing Williams has a total of 43 total pressure (eighth best among linebackers) on the quarterback (total pressure includes hits, hurries, and sacks).
According to a recent poll Bronco fans would rather have a lineup at linebacker that would include Miller/Mays/Woodyard and have Williams off the team. I think fans are overreacting to what Williams has done and are forgetting how much impact he makes on the defense. The Denver Broncos organization is sure to look at the videos and numbers Williams has notched and will value what he's done for the franchise and keep him.
Personally I'd keep him as long as he wants to play. Williams is a veteran that is savvy and can play every linebacker spot. It's hard to replace some of his talents especially with someone not as experienced as the nine veteran. I hope the former first round draft pick continues to play well in Denver and (being optimistic) stay out of trouble.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Prater signs four-year contract
The Broncos and kicker Matt Prater has finally come to an agreement on a contract! The deal is for four years worth $13 million with a $3 million signing bonus. The franchise-tagged kicker was unhappy he skipped out on the team's offseason workouts, but is now happy to get back to business and focus on football.
“It feels amazing,” Prater said. “It’s something I’ve worked for since I was a little kid. Throughout the process it was kind of tough especially once practice and everything starts, I wanted to be there. In the end, I knew it was going to get done. The Broncos made it pretty easy and my agent did a great job so it wasn’t too bad of a process. I’m excited to be back. I’m very thankful to (Owner) Mr. Bowlen, (Executive V.P. of Football Operations John) Elway, the entire organization, the fans and everybody involved. It’s awesome to be out here.”
In 2011 Prater put up 87 total points leading the team in his sixth year and was first in the NFL with a 70.1 touchback percentage on kickoffs. He also joined two other players in league history to have four game-winning field goals in overtime or as time expired.
Prater has improved every season and wants to live up to his new contract.
“I’ve progressed and gotten better,” Prater said. “I was hoping for it to happen and now that it’s happened I’m very thankful and gracious and ready to prove myself and why I got a long-term contract. I need to show everyone that I’m worth it.”
He was sure a deal would get done, but did not like that it was not done before the offseason workouts. For he was always there in previous years.
“It was just tough because in the past, I’ve always been out here for the offseason program,” Prater said. “Seeing on the news all the guys together working out and getting the chemistry, the team chemistry, and building relationships – that was probably the most difficult part. Just the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what’s going to happen was a little difficult too.”
The former UCF kicker joined Denver in 2007 and has gone 90 of 112 (80.1%) field-goal attempts with 12 of 16 (75%) on kicks that are 50 yards or longer. Along with his four game-winning field-goal makes in the fourth quarter or overtime, Prater also had three game-tying field-goals in 2011.
When Josh McDaniels was head coach is when Prater started to show his value to the team.
"A couple years ago, when (I was) just kicking and seeing the other kickers, I realized I definitely had the talent and I knew I could do it," Prater said. "I just had to prove myself, and the Broncos saw that and rewarded me."
Prater has not yet met with Denver's new quarterback Peyton Manning, but is excited to see what they will do when training camp starts on July 26.
“I’m really excited just to see the offense and what they’re going to be doing,” Prater said. “I’m excited to meet everyone, which was a big thing too that was tough about not being there for the offseason – all the new faces that were in the facility. Now I’m going to have to meet everybody at camp. I’m really excited to get back to work and meet all those guys and see what I can do.”
He is also hoping Manning and the offense will make his job easier.
“The offense can also make my job easier too,” he laughed. “Maybe I’ll just have to kick a lot of extra points this year, which will be awesome.”
In 2011 Prater put up 87 total points leading the team in his sixth year and was first in the NFL with a 70.1 touchback percentage on kickoffs. He also joined two other players in league history to have four game-winning field goals in overtime or as time expired.
Prater has improved every season and wants to live up to his new contract.
“I’ve progressed and gotten better,” Prater said. “I was hoping for it to happen and now that it’s happened I’m very thankful and gracious and ready to prove myself and why I got a long-term contract. I need to show everyone that I’m worth it.”
He was sure a deal would get done, but did not like that it was not done before the offseason workouts. For he was always there in previous years.
“It was just tough because in the past, I’ve always been out here for the offseason program,” Prater said. “Seeing on the news all the guys together working out and getting the chemistry, the team chemistry, and building relationships – that was probably the most difficult part. Just the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what’s going to happen was a little difficult too.”
The former UCF kicker joined Denver in 2007 and has gone 90 of 112 (80.1%) field-goal attempts with 12 of 16 (75%) on kicks that are 50 yards or longer. Along with his four game-winning field-goal makes in the fourth quarter or overtime, Prater also had three game-tying field-goals in 2011.
When Josh McDaniels was head coach is when Prater started to show his value to the team.
"A couple years ago, when (I was) just kicking and seeing the other kickers, I realized I definitely had the talent and I knew I could do it," Prater said. "I just had to prove myself, and the Broncos saw that and rewarded me."
Prater has not yet met with Denver's new quarterback Peyton Manning, but is excited to see what they will do when training camp starts on July 26.
“I’m really excited just to see the offense and what they’re going to be doing,” Prater said. “I’m excited to meet everyone, which was a big thing too that was tough about not being there for the offseason – all the new faces that were in the facility. Now I’m going to have to meet everybody at camp. I’m really excited to get back to work and meet all those guys and see what I can do.”
He is also hoping Manning and the offense will make his job easier.
“The offense can also make my job easier too,” he laughed. “Maybe I’ll just have to kick a lot of extra points this year, which will be awesome.”
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Wildfire takes away Garland's family home
Wildfires have ruined many acres of land in Colorado including 347 homes. Broncos defensive end Ben Garland's family home was one the homes.
Garland recently met with firefighters with three other Broncos earlier this week knowing what it's like to lose a home.
His grandparents Hal and Sharon Garland had to leave their home Tuesday when the Waldo Canyon fire came into their neighborhood. They stayed with Ben just outside of Denver later finding out that their home went up in flames.
Many memories and precious items including those of Ben's were gone. Garland, an Air Force Academy graduate, was motivated by this to be grab some Bronco teammates and join in the relief effort in Fort Collins, meeting with evacuees there.
Pat Bowlen, owner of the Denver Broncos, pledged $50,000 to the relief effort. If you want to help out the cause click on the link below.
http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_20935254
My prayers and thoughts go out to the people in Colorado.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Demaryius Thomas "never really ran routes much"
Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas is the most talented receiver on the roster. While it he had success with Tebow and ran all over the field, this time with Manning he will need to learn his routes more and be precise with them.
Thomas said this to 790 The Zone in Atlanta:
"To get to play with a future Hall of Famer, I knew I had to step my game up and get in my book more, run routes more, because I never really ran routes much. So I thought it was gonna be a challenge, and it has been so far. But it's been good, too."
"You're gonna have to run the whole route tree now. The comebacks, the slants, the posts, the ins. And I didn't have to do that much when I was my first couple of years in the league."
This can leave questions as to how well will he be running routes and being in the right spot where Manning would want him to be. I'm sure the two will hold up well, especially with how much attention to detail and how hard Manning works to be the best he can be. Through the summer and training camp Thomas will have plenty of time to get his routes down.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Fox shrugs off Williams tweet of playbook
Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams is not facing much criticism for his tweeting of six plays from the Broncos defensive playbook.
Head coach John Fox shrugs it off as if it was a mistake.
"Yeah, we've addressed that," the coach said. "You know, I think our players do a terrific job with the social media. You know, you're not going to get through a whole season, I think, unscathed, but the world has gotten smaller. But I think, all in all, our guys do a great job."
Fox would keep saying that this sort of thing is always going to happen...when in reality they really aren't.
"All in all, I think our guys do a great job keeping our fans informed, and you know, you're going to have a couple mishaps, and we just move on."
The six plays Williams revealed were from "Pro Near I", Z Motion to Far I", and U3 to Trips Slot". Fax was asked if if Williams' revealing of the plays will take the defense back a bit.
"Not that much," Fox said with a laugh.
While fans may not like at all what D.J. Williams has done, and some even wanting him gone, this case shouldn't be used against him.
CB Paymah trying to get back to NFL
Former Broncos, Texans, and Vilings cornerback Karl Paymah will go the same route as wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett and quarterback T.J. O'Sullivan to try and revive his NFL career, yet he doesn't want to end up like those two as they have retired. He will be going into the CFL and will join the Saskatchewan RoughRiders.
“It puts everything into perspective because I took a lot of things for granted,’’ Paymah tells the Regina Leader-Post. ”It’s keeping me humble and working on the little things that I did take for granted in the past. [The Riders] are probably one of the best coaching staffs that I’ve been around.”
“In the NFL, they don’t have time to coach you because it’s all about schemes,” he added. ”These guys have played the game before and they know when your body hurts. They are going to take care of you. I’m learning and I haven’t learned in a long time.’’
Paynah was drafted by Denver 76th overall in the third round in the 2005 NFL Draft from Washington State. A native from Boston Massachusetts, he played in 60 games starting five. In four seasons with the Broncos he put up 101 tackles, deflected 12 passes and had three interceptions.
Paymah, 29, played in 12 games with Minnesota with two starts in 2009 and had 27 tackles, 2 pass deflections, and a forced fumble. He then went on to Houston playing in two games and only put up 2 tackles in 2010.
Paymah, who stands at 6'0" and 195 lbs. talked about his concussion he suffered in 2007.
“I remember that his knee hit my head,’’ Paymah recalled of the running back who knocked him out cold.
“The next thing I remember was waking up in the ambulance and I was all strapped down. I wanted them to get it off me because I had to get back into the game. They calmed me down, and after I started to move my limbs, I realized that I was fine. . . . My hearing and my sight was affected for four weeks after it.’
But a week later he returned to the gridiron.
“I didn’t feel like I was ready, but I didn’t want to let my team down and I felt there was a lot of pressure,” Paymah said. ”It wasn’t the smartest thing to do, but I had to do what I had to do.”
Bible verse that was applied to this article:
"The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness." Proverbs 11:6
But a week later he returned to the gridiron.
“I didn’t feel like I was ready, but I didn’t want to let my team down and I felt there was a lot of pressure,” Paymah said. ”It wasn’t the smartest thing to do, but I had to do what I had to do.”
Bible verse that was applied to this article:
"The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness." Proverbs 11:6
Monday, June 11, 2012
Harris fighting for job among crowded secondary
Broncos cornerback Chris Harris barely made the team's roster last year after going undrafted from Kansas.
It was his incredible work ethic that got people to first notice him.
Early on that was enough to play on special teams. He kept impressing the coaches as he found a nice spot as nickel corner.
Now in his second year he knows his job isn't secure and will have to earn a spot in 2012.
"Being an undrafted free agent, you have to prove yourself every year," Harris said. "So I never stop working."
Harris is going to have to show the same thing that got him his job last time and keep it in a crowded secondary, especially since he doesn't have experience with him as do the players that Denver signed in the offseason.
Denver brought in defensive backs Tracy Porter, Drayton Florence, and Mike Adams. Those players have a combined total of 21 years of experience.
Fourteen-year veteran Champ Bailey has seen that Harris isn't backing away from the competition.
"He's holding his own," Bailey said, noting that Harris always has a smile on his face. "That's one thing about him, he's such a competitor. He feels confident about what he does. He's just letting his play speak for itself."
Harris believes the competition will only help him.
"Its just something I can gain experience from," Harris said. "These guys have been in the league for a long time. They are just adding competition and just making me better.
"We all talked as defensive backs and said we're never going to give each other bad advice, always try to help each other," he continued. "The competition is only going to make everybody better."
Many of the players in the secondary are aware that they need to earn their spot, and that most of the openings will be empty until the regular season.
"We all understand every spot is up for grabs, except Champ's,” Harris said. “There's competition everywhere.”
His young age might go against Harris, but he sees it as more room for improvement and that it gives him more time to learn.
"Really I just want to get faster and stronger," he said. "I'm only 22 years old. We drafted a guy that's older than me coming in, so I'm still young, still learning the game a lot more. There's a lot I can learn."
He could be talking about Omar Bolden who is a 23-year old rookie from Arizona St., or he could be talking about center Philip Blake from Baylor who is 26-years old. Like Bolden, Harris himself will be fighting for the second, third, and fourth cornerback spots. Both were four-year starters in college, but Bolden hasn't yet face the pros yet. The experience Harris has is something he holds valuable to himself and the team.
"Playing against top receivers like (Wes) Welker, Antonio Gates, I kind of got thrown in on the fly," Harris said. "Being able to go out there and play against those top guys definitely gives me confidence going into this season."
Harris was able to play in the playoff games Denver was in and made five tackles in the overtime win against the Steelers and started against Brady and the Patriots.
"Not a lot of undrafted rookies get that experience in the playoffs," Harris said.
Harris did point out a fact that while he and his teammates are vying for a spot, that there is a common goal for everyone.
"We're all here for one common goal, and that's to win a Super Bowl," Harris said.
Many of the players in the secondary are aware that they need to earn their spot, and that most of the openings will be empty until the regular season.
"We all understand every spot is up for grabs, except Champ's,” Harris said. “There's competition everywhere.”
His young age might go against Harris, but he sees it as more room for improvement and that it gives him more time to learn.
"Really I just want to get faster and stronger," he said. "I'm only 22 years old. We drafted a guy that's older than me coming in, so I'm still young, still learning the game a lot more. There's a lot I can learn."
He could be talking about Omar Bolden who is a 23-year old rookie from Arizona St., or he could be talking about center Philip Blake from Baylor who is 26-years old. Like Bolden, Harris himself will be fighting for the second, third, and fourth cornerback spots. Both were four-year starters in college, but Bolden hasn't yet face the pros yet. The experience Harris has is something he holds valuable to himself and the team.
"Playing against top receivers like (Wes) Welker, Antonio Gates, I kind of got thrown in on the fly," Harris said. "Being able to go out there and play against those top guys definitely gives me confidence going into this season."
Harris was able to play in the playoff games Denver was in and made five tackles in the overtime win against the Steelers and started against Brady and the Patriots.
"Not a lot of undrafted rookies get that experience in the playoffs," Harris said.
Harris did point out a fact that while he and his teammates are vying for a spot, that there is a common goal for everyone.
"We're all here for one common goal, and that's to win a Super Bowl," Harris said.
Broncos host Missy Franklin
With the 2012 Olympic trials less than a month away, the Broncos had over swimming phenom, local hero, and Olympic hopeful Missy Franklin as she watched the team practice at Dove Valley.
Franklin went on a tour of the facility and ate lunch with the players. She was told by many of the players that they have her back.
"The chance to come out here is such an honor. It's so incredible. I had so much fun. I got to meet some of my biggest heroes and see some of my other friends. Eric Decker I got a chance to see him again which was awesome. But it does, it helps me see that you know what, athletes everywhere are so hard right now. Everyone's in training or doing something. Just to know that I have their support is the best feeling in the world."
Franklin was in the pool that morning at 5am training herself for the 2012 Olympic team trials. While she has plenty of medals already, she is looking to make the USA Olympic team.
"John Elway actually said, 'you know if you think that good things are gonna happen they will. So I'm like coach Todd says that a lot too. Just you have to believe in yourself and know that what you've been doing is gonna lead you there, and just relax and have fun and enjoy it. Cause you're ready for that moment. So just taking that with me and seeing them. And I've learned so much. I mean especially about football today like the training schedules and just seeing them and what they are doing. It's so exciting, and it's been awesome."
It's been four years since Franklin's last Olympic trials, and she says that she feels completely ready this time around. She just wants to go to Omaha and start swimming, and getting another chance to represent the United States in London.
"Just knowing that it is probably the most high pressure meet I will ever go to, I'm gonna try and keep that pressure off. I mean I know it'll be really difficult and there is going to be a lot of pressure, but I know that if I just have fun like I do at every single meet then I just need to relax and enjoy it. Good things will happen, hopefully"
Good luck Missy Franklin!! Go for the gold!!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Stokley working as hard as ever for a spot
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Broncos wide receiver Brandon Stokley is thirty-five years old and has a familiar relationship with quarterback Peyton Manning, but he is still going out onto the field as if he has everything to lose.
"I feel like I'm fighting for a job every day. So I just go out there and try to prove to myself that I can still make plays, every day. That's been my mentality since I was a rookie," Stokley told Lindsey ones of The Denver Post on Sunday. "I'm enjoying it, having fun. I know I don't have another five years, 10 years left in me, so I'm enjoying this experience and this opportunity that I have."
The top three receivers are projected to be Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, and Andre Caldwell. Stokley only had one catch for seven yards in the Giants first two games of the season, but he can produce if healthy and be productive out of the slot.
In February Stokley was about "ninety-five percent retired"when he was still recovering from a quadriceps injury he suffered with his short time with the Giants. Stokley went on to workout with Manning in North Carolina (pain free), and made the decision to play one more year signing a one-year contract and reunite with Manning whom he played with from 2003 to 2006.
Stokley had 31 receptions for 354 yards in 11 games for Seattle in 2010 which was his last productive season. This was after an injured groin got him released by Denver.
His experience with Manning gives him advantage over his teammates for a spot on the team, and head coach John Fox has liked what he has seen.
"It's the Brandon Stokley I've seen on tape. He's healthy, and he's got a good skill set to play in this league, and he's proven that a lot of different places," Fox said.
Broncos looking for more from Moore
Former UCLA safety Rahim Moore is in his first offseason with OTAs and practices, and this should help him keep his starting job throughout his sophomore season in Denver. Moore lost his starting job to safety Quinton Carter after five games of poor play. He was the highest ranked safety coming out in the 2011 NFL Draft, but with the lockout brewing at the time, it did not help him understand the defense.
"I think (last year) was one of the only years I went with no production, and that's not something I looked forward to going into my rookie season," said Moore, who had 31 tackles, a pick, two pass breakups and a fumble recovery in 2011. "I wanted to play better, but I think I needed that. It's driven me now to want to compete and to have a better season and be able to help the team win."
“I missed having OTAs last season,” Moore said. “It was like I was thrown into the fire. I was antsy, but at the same time, I was second-guessing myself sometimes. When the game did slow down for me, it seemed like it didn’t. I thought it did, but it didn’t. A lot of times, I was unsure of what I was doing. I showed some signs of ability, but as the year went on, I wore down my body. This year during the offseason, I worked on getting stronger and getting in better shape.”
Fourteen-year veteran Champ Bailey knows how valuable OTAs are and how tough it is for a rookie to miss out them.
“Coming in last year, all they had was training camp,” Bailey said of the two rookie safeties, Moore and Quinton Carter “I couldn't imagine how it would've been for anybody else doing that, especially at safety. There's a lot to learn. Now they know what they need to do to be successful, it's just going out and getting the work in."
Moore, because of his poor play was placed behind Quinton Carter on the depth chart this year, but defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio says that safeties Mike Adams, Quinton Carter, and Rahim Moore are fighting for the two starting jobs.
Moore believes the competition will be good for the players and improve their play overall.
“We’re like brothers back there and we help each other out,” he said. “And that’s what it’s all about and that’s what’s going to make our team better. That’s what (Head) Coach (John) Fox wants us to do, to compete.”
In hopes of getting a starting job Moore will look to build on his experience from last year.
“It’s just learning from my old experience so when the opportunity comes, or when that time comes you know how to handle it,” Moore said. “Also my conditioning, my work ethic, I know that I put the work in. I was always told what you do in the offseason is going to show in season. It’s not like last year I didn’t work hard, but I was just new to everything. So this year, like I said, I’m excited and looking forward to helping this team win and being a part of the process.”
Ten-year player Drayton Florence has been mentoring the young players including Rahim Moore, and Moore says how much he has appreciated the help.
“I think God has truly blessed me with a guy like (cornerback) Drayton Florence,” Moore said. “He’s helped me out so much, in ways words can’t explain. He’s shown me some things that I’ve never known, that I thought I knew, but really, it was wrong. He’s helped me out so much. He’s been like a big brother to me."
In OTAs thus far Quinton Carter and Rahim Moore have both been working out as the first-team strong safety. Whenever one is in the other gets some reps in at second-team free safety. In 2011 Carter played both safety positions, and Moore only played the free safety position.
"We've been interchanging each day. Everybody has to know every position back there," Carter said.
Head coach John Fox is positive the play from whoever gets the starting job will be much better from 2010.
“The second time around, their sophomore season, (Moore and Carter) feel way more comfortable,” Coach Fox said. “Again, you have to develop a pro body. This game is twice as long as the college game when you figure in the preseason as well as the playoffs. It takes a while. They are much further along and much more comfortable the second time around.”
Carter, Harris making place for themselves on defense
The Broncos have a good combination of veterans and young players in their locker room. A pair of young defensive backs have stood out coming up big at times making a promising future for themselves. Safety Quinton Carter and cornerback Chris Harris were former Big 12 rivals and should improve themselves and the Broncos defense this coming year.
They came into the league without an offseason, but did have help from veterans Champ Bailey and Brian Dawkins. With those two leading the secondary they helped the Broncos defense only allow opposing offenses to convert under 34% of their third-down conversions.
Chris Harris, undrafted from Kansas, had a nice rookie year totaling 72 tackles with an interception against the Raiders in a 38-24 victory. He started the first game of his career in Week 13 against Minnesota helping the Broncos get a huge 35-32 win.
Quinton Carter,drafted out of Oklahoma in the fourth round, had a good year as a replacement for Rahim Moore who disappointed many his rookie year. He started in 10 games putting up 56 tackles and a sack. In the playoffs Carter made his presence felt as he picked off Ben Roethlisberger that put Denver in an easy situation to score which led to a field goal by Matt Prater that extended the score to 17-6 over Pittsburgh at the time. In the divisional playoff round Carter intercepted Brady capping off a nice season for the rookie.
The veterans in Bailey, Florence, and Porter have been mentoring the young guys, and Carter and Harris have done all they can to keep all the information in their heads. Both players have taken their challenges on well and be part of Del Rio's defense this year.
"I think the group is pretty good," Del Rio said. "We've got a good group of vets that are doing their best to share some of the knowledge that they've gathered over the years. I think he does take some time -- most of the guys do -- but Drayton in particular, Champ, those guys have been really good about giving some insight to some of the younger players, helping them grow."
Head coach John Fox believes the offseason workout will benefit the two players greatly which can make them into consistent contributors on the defense.
"The second time around, their sophomore season, they feel way more comfortable," Fox said. "Again, you have to develop a pro body. This game is twice as long as the college game when you figure in the preseason as well as the playoffs. It takes a while. They are much further along and much more comfortable the second time around."
5 things Broncos need to do to stay competitive for the future
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Peyton Manning (if healthy) does give Denver security for the duration he's signed, but what about the time he retires and leaves the Broncos? What do the Broncos need to be successful in the future? Here's a list of five positions that the team needs to address in order to have a successful franchise in the next few decades or so.
#1 Quarterback
The Broncos have Peyton Manning signed up for five years, yet he may not play that long. Second-round draft pick Brock Osweiler is intelligent about the game and had a good year his junior season at Arizona St., but there is a big transition between college and the NFL. He is 6'7", and quarterbacks with the height of 6'6" and taller don't have a good history in the NFL. Only two quarterbacks at the height of 6'6" has had success and they are Joe Flacco and Cam Newton.
Caleb Hanie is a career backup after what he has shown the football world last season when he couldn't bring Chicago a win and into the playoffs until it was too late in Week 17 in a 17-13 win over the Vikings at Minnesota. Adam Weber from Minnesota hasn't shown much and likely won't get on the field with Osweiler ,Denver's hope for the future, stepping in the way.
I think the Broncos need to draft someone who had consistent success in college (Osweiler only had one year of brilliance at Arizona St.) and a quarterback that looks promising.
#2 Cornerback
Champ Bailey only has three years left on his current extension, and Tracy Porter has only signed on for one year. Some people say Champ should play safety in his later years, but he doesn't want to play there. No telling if Bailey will sign on again after the extension is over, but he does want to stay in Denver and get a ring in Denver.
The other cornerbacks on the Broncos roster I don't see as future starters in the league. Chris Harris (undrafted out of Kansas) is improving, but so far he looks like a nickel corner. Syd'Quan Thompson ,entering his third year from Cal, can pack a punch, but I think he can be a #2 corner at best. Newly signed Drayton Florence is a ten year vet.
Rookie Omar Bolden can make noise in the return game. In addition, he may have been a steal in the fourth round since he was rated as high as the second-round, but hurt his value with a knee injury. Bolden is not as fast as Bailey, but does run a 4.5 40 yard dash and has great agility. He may be Denver's best chance to replace Bailey in the long run, but we still need to see him play and hope he progresses fast.
#3 Safety
The Broncos secondary always has done better with a solid starter at safety. In the years as of recent, John Lynch and Brian Dawkins have commanded and aligned the players from their position helping Champ lead the defense on the outside. For a short time Mike Adams ,going into his ninth season coming over from Cleveland, will do his best to lead the group of young safeties including second-year players Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter and fourth-year player David Bruton. There needs to be leadership from this position to keep the Broncos defense intact and on the same page.
Rahim Moore ,from UCLA, was the highest ranked safety in the 2011 draft, but failed to live up to expectations. With this offseason he has a chance to get better acquainted with the Broncos playbook and be the ball-hawking safety he is expected to be. Quinton Carter, out of Oklahoma, replaced Moore and performed better and even had two interceptions in the playoffs. Moore has been put back as the starting safety in OTAs and camp, and here's hoping he turns into that leader the Broncos will need in the future.
#4 Defensive Tackle
This year the Broncos have a solid unit with Ty Warren, Kevin Vickerson, Justin Bannan, Mitch Unrein, and rookie Derek Wolfe from Cincinnati. Yet the problem is that Warren, Vickerson, and Bannan are all twenty-nine years of age and older.
Derek Wolfe, Ben Garland, and fifth-rounder Malik Jackson out of Tennessee bring youth to the line, but we have yet to see them play and need to know if they will be stud or bust. Both Wolfe and Jackson are versatile in that they can play defensive end, bringing more value to their name. Wolfe will sometimes be moved to the outside of the line in Denver's nickel package with Robert Ayers on the inside to create more pressure on the quarterback.
But the Broncos need to improve their run defense which has been sad in recent years. In 2010 the run defense was ranked thirty-first in the league allowing 154.6 yards per game, and in 2011 the Broncos run defense allowed 126.3 yards per game and was ranked at twenty-second in the league. For quite some time now the Broncos have been a team that opposing teams have been able to run over controlling the tempo of the game, and taking time off the clock preventing Denver's offense from scoring any points.
Fans got what they wanted when Denver drafted a defensive tackle in Derek Wolfe with their first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, but I believe Denver will be needing to draft a few more defensive tackles in the early rounds in the coming years.
#5 Linebacker
Not all that important, but the Broncos do not have good depth behind their starters. Von Miller is mainly going after the quarterback all the time, so he's basically another defensive end. Joe Mays is a solid player, but knocks I have on him is that he is short for a linebacker at 5'11" and is not all that fast. Though Mays is their is their strongest linebacker. They really only have one quality backup in Wesley Woodyard.
D.J. Williams is the one Bronco facing the most problems just about every year. With all he's done in his eight years as a Bronco, the savvy veteran has been charged with DUI, violated the NFL's policy of performance-enhancing substances, and most recently he has tweeted pics that were of the Broncos playbook. Williams may file a lawsuit, and he may do well considering the success baseball star Ryan Braun had. He has gotten many Bronco fans upset and wanting to see him be cut by the team. Plus he is facing a six-game suspension for taking the performance-enhancing drugs, leaving Denver even thinner at linebacker during that time. Wesley Woodyard will be replacing Williams at the weak side linebacker spot, and if seventh-round pick Danny Trevathan (Kentucky) makes the 53-man roster, he doesn't have experience in the NFL. Williams needs to stay out of trouble. He is a good linebacker that contributes well on the field and makes an impact.
In the coming years I would like to see the Broncos draft a few linebackers that can give Denver depth like Mario Haggan was for the team in his few seasons with the team. Bringing Jason Hunter back to linebacker would create more depth. Other than Miller, Mays, and Williams the Broncos need to find players to help them out at the position.
The Broncos I believe addressed many of their problems on the offensive side drafting center Philip Blake from Baylor, signing tight ends Joel Dreessen and Jacob Tamme, and signing wide receivers Andre Caldwell and Jason Hill. Could still use some help on the interior of the offensive line, but I believe they are happy with who they have right now.
What do you think? Do the Broncos need help in other areas? Leave a comment and state your opinion!
Saturday, June 9, 2012
D.J. Williams gives away plays
D.J. Williams, going into his 9th year in the NFL as a Denver Bronco, is facing a six game suspension for the use of performance enhancing drugs, but that will not start until the season starts.
Meanwhile, Williams is free to attend the OTAs and mandatory minicamp, all the good stuff that comes with getting ready for the season.
Somehow, Williams thought it was a good idea to tweet out a photo of the team's defensive playbook on his iPad. It is unclear if the Broncos are going to take any action on this latest blunder.
After telling his 10,000 Twitter followers he's learning a "new position," Williams gave the general public a chance to learn along with him.
Thanks to this savvy veteran, any lingering mystery attached to Denver's "Pro Near I" front has been shattered completely. That particular play is clearly visible on the typically top-secret blueprint Williams made available to thousands. Same goes for "Z Motion to Far I" and "U3 to Trips Slot." The cat -- totally out of the bag.
In the foreground of this picture, high-tech meets low-tech, literally. The notepad and the obviously sharpened and not yet used pencil add a sense of the surreal.
Williams followed that up with another message to readers:
"Dear fans: My post about learning a new position and the fact that our playbooks are now iPad was all for you. I realize fans like to know what's going on with their teams and fav player."
The same goes for the Raiders, or any other team the Broncos will face this season.
Meanwhile, Williams is free to attend the OTAs and mandatory minicamp, all the good stuff that comes with getting ready for the season.
Somehow, Williams thought it was a good idea to tweet out a photo of the team's defensive playbook on his iPad. It is unclear if the Broncos are going to take any action on this latest blunder.
After telling his 10,000 Twitter followers he's learning a "new position," Williams gave the general public a chance to learn along with him.
Thanks to this savvy veteran, any lingering mystery attached to Denver's "Pro Near I" front has been shattered completely. That particular play is clearly visible on the typically top-secret blueprint Williams made available to thousands. Same goes for "Z Motion to Far I" and "U3 to Trips Slot." The cat -- totally out of the bag.
In the foreground of this picture, high-tech meets low-tech, literally. The notepad and the obviously sharpened and not yet used pencil add a sense of the surreal.
Williams followed that up with another message to readers:
"Dear fans: My post about learning a new position and the fact that our playbooks are now iPad was all for you. I realize fans like to know what's going on with their teams and fav player."
The same goes for the Raiders, or any other team the Broncos will face this season.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Prater closing in on contract extension
Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater is close to a five-year contract extension with the team!
He hasn't signed his franchise tender worth $2.654 million, and has been skipping out the team's OTAs. The extension could be finished before minicamp start next week, and could be worth over $3 million per season.
Five kickers received the franchise tag this season including: Mike Nugent (Bengals), Phil Dawson (Browns), Josh Scobee (Jaguars), and Connor Barth (Buccaneers). Barth signed his tender, and Scobee signed a four-year contract extension worth $13.2 million. Four million in guarantees was also included in Barth's contract which places him among the current top-five highest paid kickers in the NFL, and has about $1.8 million increase in his 2012 compensation.
Matt Prater is 90-112 (80.1 percent) on field goal attempts since joining Denver in 2007. The 27-year-old Prater is also 12-16 (75 percent) from field goals from beyond 50 yards. Prater was 19-25 on field goal attempts, and seven of those field goals came in the fourth quarter or overtime in four of the Bronco's eight wins.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Stokley grabs attention of many in OTAs
by Ryan Ebert
Brandon Stokley (35) made a catch in OTA practice Monday that made him look as if he was still 25.
In the past two seasons Stokley was being told by coaches that he was finished. In 2011 they were almost right. Stokley wasn't on a team in training camp and the preseason. He played two games for the Giants before being released.
Peyton Manning lobbed a deep pass down the middle in a two-minute, 11-on-11 drill, and Stokley made a spectacular diving catch to make it first-and-goal from inside the ten.
"This kind of reminds me of my first or second year," said Stokley, who broke into the NFL in 1999 with Baltimore. "Everything is so much more important. All the offseason stuff. I don't take it for granted. For me, every day is so important. Starting now, training camp — preseason games are going to be like regular-season games for me now. I look forward to it."
After the great catch Manning hurried the offense to the line, did a fake spike to stop the clock, and threw the ball to Decker in the endzone to end the drive and the drill.
When Stokley was finished with the workouts, he sat on the bench and received a fist bump from none other than John Elway. A great catch that caught the attention of many people including his own boss.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Manning and Decker smooth out rough patches
After practice Wednesday Broncos QB Peyton Manning and WR Eric Decker stayed around and went over a few things after experiencing some lapses in communication during practice.
"I think it was evident, particularly offensively, that we were coming off a 4½-day hiatus," Broncos coach John Fox said. "But that's what happens. We gave them a little break, and I think they enjoyed their Memorial Day weekend. We've just got to get back to business."
Teams struggling in OTAs should only be taken lightly since there have only been a number of practices that have gone and much more to go. Receivers are still getting familiar with their quarterbacks more exclusively. Broncos tight end Joel Dreessen is thankful for OTAs and the workouts he gets with Manning.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Ryan Clady in talks of extension
Good news for Bronco fans!
The Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady is now in talks of an extension.
He is to earn $3.5 million in 2012 which is the final year of his rookie contract.
Since he was drafted in 2008 with the 12th pick out of Boise St. Clady has started every game for Denver. In 2009 he first-team All-Pro when he made his first Pro Bowl appearance. Though he still has to return to his form before his knee injury he suffered in the 2010 offseason.
The Broncos allowed 42 sacks to opponents last year, and gave up 33 of them when Tebow was QB - which was 10th worst in the league.
In 2010 when Peyton Manning last played, Manning was only sacked 16 times.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Brian Xanders and the Broncos have parted ways
John Elway has made another yet surprising move for Denver. This time he has fired GM Brian Xanders. Xanders was named the GM back in 2008 by Mike Shanahan. Xanders never did have control over the roster with Shanahan, McDaniels, or Elway.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Broncos acquire good talent late in draft
The Broncos looked to have done well in the Draft bringing in players to give depth and versatility to many positions. Denver may have also gotten a few steals in this year's Draft.
The first player taken on Saturday in the fourth round 101 overall was Arizona State's Omar Bolden. A cornerback that stands at 5'10" and 202 lbs. He brings good speed running a 4.5 40 and has great agility. He also brings value as a kick returner along with his great coverage skills, he brought two kicks for touchdowns in his career at ASU. He will most likely be replacing Eddie Royal who left in the offseason to the Chargers. He was rated as high as the second round, but had an injury to his knee that kept him out of 2011 season which hurt his value. Many are hoping that he can be the successor to Champ Bailey. He will rejoin quarterback Brock Osweiler in Denver who was also from Arizona State.
The final player drafted by Denver in the sixth round at No. 188 is linebacker Danny Trevathan from Kentucky. In 2011 Trevathan led the Wildcats in tackles with 143 along with 11.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 4 interceptions, 9 pass deflections, and 5 forced fumbles in his senior season. He is a 6'1", 232 lbs. linebacker that was an AP First-Team All-SEC player in 2011. He will bring depth to the linebacker corps of Denver that has D.J. Williams facing a six-game suspension, and doesn't have much talent behind their starters. Trevathan will join his former teammate Wesley Woodyard that plays the same position as Williams. Overall, this draft class for the Broncos filled many needs. They get a cornerback who can take the responsibility of returning kicks. A versatile offensive lineman who plays all three inside positions well. They get a defensive lineman who can play either defensive tackle or defensive end, and can bring pressure on the quarterback. Then last but not least Denver has a linebacker that could play early and often with D.J. Williams facing his suspension. John Elway, John Fox, and Brian Xanders did a nice job in their second draft together.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Broncos get some needed talent
After not having a pick in the first round, the Denver Broncos make three solid picks in the second day of the 2012 NFL Draft. The team filled a needed position on defense, added security, and depth in the second and third rounds. The players drafted in the second round were announced by Bronco great Terrell Davis.
The Broncos first pick at thirty-six overall was used to get Derek Wolfe, a 6'5" 300 lbs. defensive tackle from Cincinnati, with the thirty-sixth overall pick. Wolfe in four seasons with the Bearcats accumulated 162 tackles (89 solo), a forced fumble, and 19.5 sacks with 9.5 of them coming in his senior season in which he was named the Co-Big East Defensive player of the Year. Fans at first may have been shocked at the selection, but Denver drafted Wolfe because he is reliable and consistent unlike Jerel Worthy who is talented, but inconsistent.
The second player Denver drafted in the second round with the fifty-seventh overall pick was Arizona St. quarterback Brock Osweiler. The 6'7" quarterback threw for 4,036 yards, 33 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, and had a 63.2 completion percentage in his senior season. He is expected to be the backup to Manning. Even though Denver has Caleb Hanie and Adam Weber it is believed that Osweiler will be the number two quarterback. Though there is a history of quarterbacks with such a height of 6'6" and taller that do not have success in the NFL. The only real successes in the NFL of quarterbacks who stand 6'6" or taller are Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco and the Panthers Cam Newton.
The final pick for Denver of the day was San Diego St. running back Ronnie Hillman drafted at sixty-seventh in the Draft. Hillman, who stands at 5'9" 200 lbs., put up 1,711 rushing yards with 19 touchdowns and a 5.5 average along with 24 receptions for 270 yards, a touchdown and a 11.3 average in his senior season. He had a 99 yard run against Wyoming last year, and even topped a few of Marshall Faulk's old school records at San Diego St. NFL Network's Mike Mayock said, "He's a guy that I think provides instant offense for the Denver Broncos, Peyton Manning's going to love him."The Broncos still have a few more needs to get in the secondary and could get some depth at the linebacker and wide receiver position, but these picks look to be solid. Derek Wolfe brings youth to the defensive line and will be playing under Ty Warren, Justin Bannan, and Kevin Vickerson who are all 29 years of age and older. Brock Osweiler has a tremendous opportunity to learn from one of the best to ever play the game, and is very intelligent of the game himself. Ronnie Hillman who could bring that "instant offense" may replace Knowshon Moreno if Moreno doesn't step up his game here soon. Hillman will also be learning from veteran running back Willis McGahee ,who is in his ninth season and will turn 31 in October.
On the last day the Broncos own the 101st, 108th, 137th, and 188th draft picks in rounds four through seven. Hoping Denver find a few gems and a future star!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Broncos don't get first-round pick
As the first day of the 2012 NFL Draft finished, Bronco fans may be disappointed in not having selected a player in the first round. Yet there is a positive side to this. Denver now owns eight picks instead of seven which can be used to add more pieces to help Manning, or of course strengthen the defensive side of the ball at the many positions Denver needs to gain depth in.
First this evening Denver traded their twenty-fifth pick to New England for the Patriot's thirty-first pick and a fourth-round pick. Later on, that thirty-first pick along with a fourth-round pick was traded away to Tampa Bay for the thirty-sixth overall pick and a fourth-round selection. The selections the Broncos now own in the Draft are: 36, 57, 87, 101, 108, 120, 137, and 188. Six of those selections are between the second and fourth rounds of the Draft.
The players still on Denver's board are: Jerel Worthy, Courtney Upshaw, Stephen Hill, Kendall Reyes, and Janoris Jenkins. Former Bronco great Terrell Davis will announce the Bronco's selection on Friday.
A few things said by Bronco's Vice President of Football Operations John Elway after the Draft ended:
"Well, we didn't get any better yet, but we will tomorrow,"
"Our board looked the same, and we have the same players at No. 36 than we would have had at No. 31," Denver Broncos Vice President of Football Operations John Elway said following the first round of the draft. "We don't have a new player yet, but we like where we sit. We're excited."
Other players in the second round Denver may pick are Lamar Miller, and Robert Turbin.
Fear not Bronco fans. John Elway, John Fox, and Brian Xanders know what they are doing.
A few things said by Bronco's Vice President of Football Operations John Elway after the Draft ended:
"Well, we didn't get any better yet, but we will tomorrow,"
"Our board looked the same, and we have the same players at No. 36 than we would have had at No. 31," Denver Broncos Vice President of Football Operations John Elway said following the first round of the draft. "We don't have a new player yet, but we like where we sit. We're excited."
Other players in the second round Denver may pick are Lamar Miller, and Robert Turbin.
Fear not Bronco fans. John Elway, John Fox, and Brian Xanders know what they are doing.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Brian Dawkins rides off into the sunset
After sixteen outstanding years in the NFL, longtime Eagles and Broncos safety for three years has decided to step away from the game and retire. He announced this on Twitter on Monday morning:
The Lord has blessed me to play in the NFL for 16 years. I would like to thank the Eagles & the Broncos 4 believing In me. I would like 2 thank all my teammates & Coaches that I have been blessed 2 go to battle with. Along with u, the fans 4 helping make my career 1 that i have enjoyed tremendously. In other words. I am announcing my retirement from the NFL. #BBTB
He prayed, meditated, and spoke to people close to him to help him make his decision and be at peace with it.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Matt Willis staying in Denver
The Broncos resigned restricted-free agent Matt Willis today according to ESPN's Howard Balzer. Willis in 2011 caught 18 passes for 267 yards with 1 touchdown. He is a 6'0" receiver out of UCLA that is in his fourth season, and entered the league as an undrafted rookie in 2007 signing with the Ravens.
Stokley back with Manning in Denver
Veteran wide receiver Brandon Stokley has signed with Denver on a one-year deal. Terms were not disclosed, but it's likely that he signed a veteran minimum contract.
Stokley will turn 36 in June, and is known to be a clutch slot receiver. If he makes the roster the slot position will most likely be where he'll play. Stokley will be a target that Peyton Manning is familiar with, and he can help Denver's young receivers learn the new offense and routes.
Standing at 6'0" and 192 lbs. Stokley has played thirteen years in the NFL with five teams. He has won two Super Bowl rings (2000 Ravens and 2007 Colts). Brandon Stokley who lives in the Denver area ran routes for Manning back in March, and helped the Broncos recruit the four time MVP.
Stokley played with Denver previously from 2007-2009 and caught five touchdowns in '07. In the season opener of the 2009 season Stokley made a game-winning play. The catch has been dubbed “one of the most spectacular plays in club history.”
In 2004, playing with Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, Stokley hauled in 68 passes for 1,077 yards and 10 touchdowns.
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