Mario Haggan Extended By Broncos, Brandon Marshall Next?

The Denver Broncos made a couple of very surprising moves on Wednesday.

They started by re-signing outside linebacker Mario Haggan to a two year, $3.5 million deal with $1.25 million in guaranteed cash, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Haggan was brought on last year to fill in as an injury replacement, and has been considered one of the better special teams players in the league over the last couple of years.

He won a starting job in Denver this offseason, and has impressed the team to the point where they deemed it necessary to lock him up for the next two seasons.

In addition to re-signing Haggan, the Broncos reportedly are talking new contract with wide receiver Brandon Marshall. 

Marshall has twice requested a trade this offseason, many feeling the reason being his desire for more cash.

After it appeared as though the Broncos were skeptical, they apparently have changed their stance with Marshall’s recent progress.  Apparently his head is back on straight.

Per the report, there is “optimism” a deal could get done to keep Marshall a Bronco for a long time. 

Which is what he initially said he wanted. 

Marshall may get his wish indeed, and maybe a little pro-bono time off was just what this kid needed.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Practice Notes, Sept. 8, 2009: Brandon Marshall Back in Action

Well, Brandon Marshall is back at practice, and he does not appear to be wearing pajama pants.

In all seriousness, this is a huge boost for the Denver Broncos, who also welcomed quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Chris Simms, running back Knowshon Moreno, and wide receiver Jabar Gaffney back to practice on Tuesday.

Head coach Josh McDaniels offered only a single word when asked about the attitude of Marshall—”Great.”

He also offered a one-word response when asked if Marshall would be ready to contribute on Sunday, saying, “Absolutely.”

It would appear as though Marshall and the Broncos have put their situation behind them for the time being. McDaniels seems to think so anyway.

“I have talked to him more than once,” McDaniels said. “We are looking forward to moving past this, and he’s out there practicing hard. That’s what we’re looking for.”

This is a huge boost for the Broncos. 

If Marshall is physically ready, he is an imposer of fear on the football field. He has been called “The Beast” and a “Whirling Dervish” for a reason. The dude can play some ball, and the Broncos realize that they have a much better chance of winning with him on the field.

“I think he is a good football player. If he is ready to go and we go through this week of practice and we feel like that’s the direction we should play on Sunday, then certainly we all know what he can do as a football player,” said McDaniels. “It is a matter of getting acclimated to enough of the game plan and him understanding what’s going on, but we’ll see as we go through the week.”

Marshall’s presence on the field will surely be a boost for whichever quarterback lines up under center for the Broncos on Sunday. The team is not guaranteeing Orton will be ready, but all systems appear to be “go” for the quarterback who suffered a very disturbing injury two weeks ago to his pointer finger.

“Obviously, there is a little bit of restriction for a quarterback when you’ve got something on your hand,” McDaniels said, “but for the most part, everything was clean. Hopefully, everybody that was out there today will be ready to go on Sunday.”

Virtually the same response was given by McDaniels when asked if rookie tailback Moreno would be available for the Cincinnati game.

“He is getting better every day, doing everything he can do to be ready to go on Sunday. He was in there today and worked in and out of the drills today and some of the team periods, too. He is not totally there yet, but he is getting better every day. Hopefully, we will have him ready to go on Sunday.”

It will be a huge development for Denver if they can begin the season with the roster we all anticipated at the outset of training camp, and Moreno is certainly part of that group.

It was also nice to see wide receiver Gaffney at practice despite his broken thumb. If you are unable to believe that someone could return to catching passes after suffering a broken thumb this quickly, here is proof.

The team is also very excited about Vonnie Holliday, a veteran defensive lineman who was brought in for a visit back in March.

According to McDaniels, “Vonnie has got some familiarity with the system that we run. We had him in earlier in the year. He was coming off of a little bit of a cleanup in terms of a little procedure and wasn’t quite ready to do a workout and all that kind of stuff.

“We brought him back in, stayed in touch, and I think it worked out for the best for everybody. He is excited to be here. We are excited to have him. I think he can help improve our depth on the defensive line. He has obviously played that position. He has got some knowledge about how to play it, and I think that is helpful for some of our younger players, too.”

Check back tomorrow evening for my preview of the Broncos-Bengals game.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Practice Notes 9/8/09: Brandon Marshall Back in Action

Well, Brandon Marshall is back at practice, and he does not appear to be wearing pajama pants.

In all seriousness, this is a huge boost for the Denver Broncos, who also welcomed quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Chris Simms, running back Knowshon Moreno, and wide receiver Jabar Gaffney back to practice on Tuesday.

Head coach Josh McDaniels offered only a single word when asked about the attitude of Marshall—”Great.”

He also offered a one word response when asked if Marshall would be ready to contribute on Sunday, saying “Absolutely.”

It would appear as though Marshall and the Broncos have put their situation behind them for the time being.  McDaniels seems to think so anyway.

“I have talked to him more than once,” McDaniels said, “We are looking forward to moving past this, and he’s out there practicing hard. That’s what we’re looking for.”

This is a huge boost for the Broncos. 

If Marshall is physically ready, he is an imposer of fear on the football field.  He has been called “The Beast” and a “Whirling Dervish” for a reason.  The dude can play some ball, and the Broncos realize that they have a much better chance of winning with him on the field.

“I think he is a good football player. If he is ready to go and we go through this week of practice and we feel like that’s the direction we should play on Sunday, then certainly we all know what he can do as a football player. It is a matter of getting acclimated to enough of the game plan and him understanding what’s going on, but we’ll see as we go through the week.”

Marshall’s presence on the field will surely be a boost for whichever quarterback lines up under center for the Broncos on Sunday.  The team is not guaranteeing Orton will be ready, but all systems appear to be “go” for the quarterback who suffered a very disturbing injury two weeks ago to his pointer finger.

“Obviously, there is a little bit of restriction for a quarterback when you’ve got something on your hand,” McDaniels said, “but for the most part, everything was clean. Hopefully, everybody that was out there today will be ready to go on Sunday.”

Virtually the same response was given by McDaniels when asked if rookie tailback Knowshon Moreno would be available for the Cincinnati game.

“He is getting better every day, doing everything he can do to be ready to go on Sunday. He was in there today and worked in and out of the drills today and some of the team periods, too. He is not totally there yet, but he is getting better every day. Hopefully, we will have him ready to go on Sunday.”

It will be a huge development for Denver if they can begin the season with the roster we all anticipated at the outset of training camp, and Moreno is certainly part of that group.

It was also nice to see wide receiver Jabar Gaffney at practice despite his broken thumb.  If you are unable to believe that someone could return to catching passes after suffering a broken thumb this quickly, here is proof.

The team is also very excited about Vonnie Holliday, a veteran defensive lineman who was brought in for a visit back in March.

“Vonnie has got some familiarity with the system that we run. We had him in earlier in the year. He was coming off of a little bit of a cleanup in terms of a little procedure and wasn’t quite ready to do a workout and all that kind of stuff.”

“We brought him back in, stayed in touch and I think it worked out for the best for everybody. He is excited to be here. We are excited to have him. I think he can help improve our depth on the defensive line. He has obviously played that position. He has got some knowledge about how to play it, and I think that is helpful for some of our younger players, too.”

Check back tomorrow evening for my preview of the Broncos-Bengals game.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Are You Kidding Me? ESPN.com Denver Broncos Preview Out of Touch with Reality

It would appear as though most of ESPN’s NFL analysts have forgotten that football is an 11-on-11 sport.

In what would be the biggest waste of seven minutes of my life, I endured the ESPN.com official Denver Broncos 2009 season preview.

This preview was not only irrational, it was downright pathetic, and not just because I disagree.

Scouts Inc.’s Jeremy Green had one of the more intriguing comments on the Broncos’ 2009 prospects: “This is not a very good team, but in the AFC West that is enough for second place. The Broncos have concerns at quarterback, along the D-line, and in the secondary.”

Concerns in the secondary? Does this guy have the first clue what he is talking about?

Broncos fans do not even need me to go into detail here to explain this comment, but for those who are not in the know, the Broncos have one of the more formidable secondaries in the entire NFL.

In fact, the preview goes on to say that the Broncos’ biggest offseason addition was the signing of Andre’ Goodman to pair with Champ Bailey.

Another comment I found particularly disturbing was one by Paul Kuharsky: “Offseason debacle leaves team in position to struggle. The Broncos undid a high-flying offense while not doing near enough to fix a bad defense.”

Yes. Because the Broncos do not have Jay Cutler, they have “undid” a high-flying offense.

Also, not doing “near enough” to fix their bad defense? Might I offer a little wisdom here:

• Three new starters on the defensive line
• Three new starters at linebacker
• Three new starters in the defensive backfield
• First-round pick used on DE/OLB Robert Ayers
• Three picks in first two rounds used on defense
• Brought in Mike Nolan, a defensive guru
• Switched defensive schemes

Just because the Broncos did not break the bank for every available defensive free agent or draft pick does not mean they did not do enough to fix their defense.

The comment that prompted this article was one that was written by James Walker.

“Any hope of the Broncos having a successful season was shipped to the Windy City.”

It really is sad that this man was compensated to give this kind of an opinion.

It was also sad that second-year tackle Ryan Clady was given a grade of 79 out of 99 by Scouts Inc. I am not sure who justified this ranking, though it means nothing, but you have to give the guy credit where credit is due.

Clady allowed half a sack on 620 pass attempts and only had three penalties all of last season. He was the most dominant offensive lineman in the NFL, by far. There is really no disputing it.

I will give this preview some credit, though. They did state that Denver’s “strengths” were along the offensive line, with their offensive weaponry, and in their defensive backfield.

But is this preview really justifiable? Let us take a look at Denver’s 2009 roster compared to the 2008 team that went 8-8, and you tell me if this year’s squad is better.

 

Offense

Quarterback

Kyle Orton vs. Jay Cutler

Advantage: Cutler

Even the most anti-Cutler Broncos fan will tell you that Cutler is the better player than Orton. 

Despite the fact that many believe Orton is fully capable of being an excellent field general for the team, Jay Cutler is an elite talent. He has not proven it in terms of wins and losses, but his skill set is one of the best in the NFL.

Consensus: The Broncos clearly downgraded at the quarterback position, but not to the point where they will have to hand the ball off every play. Kyle Orton is a very capable, smart NFL quarterback.

ESPN 1, Sayre 0

 

Running Back

Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, Peyton Hillis, LaMont Jordan vs. Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Andre Hall, etc.

Advantage: Moreno, Buckhalter, Hillis, Jordan

The Broncos’ 2008 group of running backs was makeshift. Not a single back that was on Denver’s active roster at the start of last year (save for Hillis) is currently on an active 53-man roster.

Denver’s new group of backs is versatile, tough, and just downright better than they have had since Clinton Portis roamed around the Mile High City.

Consensus: The Broncos undoubtedly upgraded at the running back position. Plain and simple.

ESPN 1, Sayre 1

 

Wide Receiver

Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Kenny McKinley, Brandon Lloyd vs.  Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Darrell Jackson, Clifford Russell

Advantage: Marshall, Royal, Stokley, Gaffney, McKinley, Lloyd

Last year’s group was not much different than the 2009 group, but the additions of McKinley, Lloyd, and Gaffney give the Broncos excellent depth at this position. The Broncos signed a few journeymen last year because of injuries to Stokley and Royal, and their lack of depth showed.

Consensus: Upgrade. No real debate there.

ESPN 1, Sayre 2

 

Tight End

Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Richard Quinn vs. Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson

Advantage: Graham, Scheffler, Quinn

The only difference here is the third tight end. Quinn is in some trouble right now, but on the field he is a superior prospect than Jackson, who was a converted wide receiver.

Consensus: Though only slightly, the Broncos upgraded at the tight end position this offseason.

ESPN 1, Sayre 3

 

Offensive Line

Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Tyler Polumbus, Seth Olsen, Russ Hochstein, Brandon Gorin vs. Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Kory Lichtensteiger, Tyler Polumbus

Advantage: 2009 Group

The Broncos’ starting offensive line is exactly the same as last year, but the depth has been significantly upgraded. Russ Hochstein, Seth Olsen, and Brandon Gorin were brought in to back up Denver’s offensive line and are far more capable than what the Broncos had in 2008.

Consensus: Along with experience from 2008 and upgrades in 2009, this unit has been upgraded overall.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Defense

Defensive Line

Kenny Peterson, Ryan McBean, Ronald Fields, Vonnie Holliday, Marcus Thomas, Chris Baker vs. Elvis Dumervil, Marcus Thomas, Ebenezer Ekuban, John Engleberger, Kenny Peterson, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder, DeWayne Robertson

Advantage: Peterson, McBean, Fields, Holliday, Thomas, Baker

While this is a tough position to compare to last year, the change of scheme and increase in overall girth gives the 2009 unit the advantage.

Last season, Denver defensive linemen averaged roughly 6’3″, 275 lbs. This year, they average 6’4″, 300 lbs. That alone will help the linebackers greatly.

Consensus: The Broncos’ defensive front appears much more tough, formidable, and capable of stopping the run in the preseason, but I will be fair and wait to pass judgment until they get it done in the regular season. Wash.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Linebackers

D.J. Williams, Andra Davis, Elvis Dumervil, Mario Haggan, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Robert Ayers, Jarvis Moss, Darrell Reid vs. D.J. Williams, Boss Bailey, Jamie Winborn, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Mario Haggan

Advantage: Williams, Davis, Dumervil, Haggan, Woodyard, Larsen, Ayers, Moss, Reid

Again, the Broncos simply did what was needed to upgrade these positions. The hybrid linebackers could struggle in coverage at first, but that is a problem that can be fixed through experience. 

Consensus: Improvement.

ESPN 1, Sayre 5

 

Cornerbacks

Champ Bailey, Andre’ Goodman, Alphonso Smith, Jack Williams vs. Champ Bailey, Dre’ Bly, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams, Josh Bell

Advantage: Bailey, Goodman, Smith, Williams

The Broncos upgraded this position greatly this offseason by adding Goodman and Smith. The only thing they lack is pure depth. On the top end, they are among the best in the league.

Consensus: Upgrade.

ESPN 1, Sayre 6

 

Safeties

Brian Dawkins, Renaldo Hill, Josh Barrett, Darcel McBath, David Bruton vs. Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel, Calvin Lowery, Vernon Fox, Josh Barrett

Advantage: Dawkins, Hill, Barrett, McBath, Bruton

The Broncos’ 2008 unit was an absolute joke. 

Consensus: Upgrade, by far.

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

Specialists

Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Lonie Paxton vs. Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Mike Leach

Advantage: Neither

This one is a wash. Both Paxton and Leach are great long snappers. 

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

So, ESPN, it would appear to me that the Broncos have upgraded significantly from their team in 2008 despite losing Jay Cutler. The schemes and culture of this team have changed drastically, but this is the NFL, and these players are going to have to be able to pick things up quickly.

For a team that featured over a dozen rookie performers in 2008 starting at one point, this seasoned, more veteran team would appear to have a much better chance at eight wins than last year’s squad did.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

ESPN.com Denver Broncos Preview a Disgrace to Sports Journalism

It would appear as though most of ESPN’s NFL analysts have forgotten that football is an 11-on-11 sport.

In what would be the biggest waste of seven minutes of my life, I endured the ESPN.com official Denver Broncos 2009 season preview.

This preview was not only irrational, it was downright pathetic, and not just because I disagree.

Scout’s Inc.’s Jeremy Green had one of the more intriguing comments on the Broncos’ 2009 prospects:  “This is not a very good team, but in the AFC West that is enough for second place. The Broncos have concerns at quarterback, along the D-line and in the secondary.”

Concerns in the secondary?  Does this guy have the first clue what he is talking about?

Broncos fans do not even need me to go into detail here to explain this comment, but for those who are not in the know, the Broncos have one of the more formidable secondaries in the entire NFL.

In fact, the preview goes on to say that the Broncos’ biggest offseason addition was the signing of Andre’ Goodman to pair with Champ Bailey.

Another comment I found particularly disturbing was one by Paul Kuharsky: “Offseason debacle leaves team in position to struggle. The Broncos undid a high-flying offense while not doing near enough to fix a bad defense.”

Yes. Because the Broncos do not have Jay Cutler, they have “undid” a high-flying offense.

Also, not doing “near enough” to fix their bad defense?  Might I offer a little wisdom here:

• Three new starters on the defensive line
• Three new starters at linebacker
• Three new starters in the defensive backfield
• First-round pick used on DE/OLB Robert Ayers
• Three picks in first two rounds used on defense
• Brought in Mike Nolan, a defensive guru
• Switched defensive schemes

Just because the Broncos did not break the bank for every available defensive free agent or draft pick does not mean they did not do enough to fix their defense.

The comment that prompted this article was one that was written by James Walker.

“Any hope of the Broncos having a successful season was shipped to the Windy City.”

It really is sad that this man was compensated to give this kind of an opinion.

It was also sad that second year tackle Ryan Clady was given a grade of 79 out of 99 by Scout’s Inc.  I am not sure who justified this ranking, though it means nothing, but you have to give the guy credit where credit is due.

Clady allowed half a sack on 620 pass attempts and only had three penalties all of last season. He was the most dominant offensive lineman in the NFL, by far.  There is really no disputing it.

I will give this preview some credit, though. They did state that Denver’s “strengths” were along the offensive line, with their offensive weaponry, and in their defensive backfield.

But is this preview really justifiable?  Let us take a look at Denver’s 2009 roster compared to the 2008 team that went 8-8, and you tell me if this year’s squad is better.

 

Offense

 

Quarterback

Kyle Orton vs. Jay Cutler

Advantage:  Cutler

Even the most anti-Cutler Broncos fan will tell you that Cutler is the better player than Orton. 

Despite the fact that many believe Orton is fully capable of being an excellent field general for the team, Jay Cutler is an elite talent.  He has not proven it in terms of wins and losses, but his skill set is one of the best in the NFL.

Consensus:  The Broncos clearly downgraded at the quarterback position, but not to the point where they will have to hand the ball off every play. Kyle Orton is a very capable, smart NFL quarterback.

ESPN 1, Sayre 0

 

Running Back

Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, Peyton Hillis, LaMont Jordan vs. Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, Andre Hall, etc.

Advantage:  Moreno, Buckhalter, Hillis, Jordan

The Broncos’ 2008 group of running backs was makeshift.  Not a single back that was on Denver’s active roster at the start of last year (save for Hillis) is currently on an active 53-man roster.

Denver’s new group of backs is versatile, tough, and just downright better than they have had since Clinton Portis roamed around the Mile High City.

Consensus:  The Broncos undoubtedly upgraded at the running back position. Plain and simple.

ESPN 1, Sayre 1

 

Wide Receiver

Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Kenny McKinley, Brandon Lloyd vs.  Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Darrell Jackson, Clifford Russell

Advantage:  Marshall, Royal, Stokley, Gaffney, McKinley, Lloyd

Last year’s group was not much different than the 2009 group, but the additions of McKinley, Lloyd, and Gaffney give the Broncos excellent depth at this position.  The Broncos signed a few journeymen last year because of injuries to Stokley and Royal, and their lack of depth showed.

Consensus:  Upgrade.  No real debate there.

ESPN 1, Sayre 2

 

Tight End

Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Richard Quinn vs. Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler, Nate Jackson

Advantage:  Graham, Scheffler, Quinn

The only difference here is the third tight end. Quinn is in some trouble right now, but on the field he is a superior prospect than Jackson, who was a converted wide receiver.

Consensus:  Though only slightly, the Broncos upgraded at the tight end position this offseason.

ESPN 1, Sayre 3

 

Offensive Line

Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Tyler Polumbus, Seth Olsen, Russ Hochstein, Brandon Gorin vs. Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris, Ben Hamilton, Chris Kuper, Casey Wiegmann, Kory Lichtensteiger, Tyler Polumbus

Advantage:  2009 Group

The Broncos’ starting offensive line is exactly the same as last year, but the depth has been significantly upgraded. Russ Hochstein, Seth Olsen, and Brandon Gorin were brought in to back up Denver’s offensive line, and are far more capable than what the Broncos had in 2008.

Consensus: Along with experience from 2008 and upgrades in 2009, this unit has been upgraded overall.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Defense

 

Defensive Line

Kenny Peterson, Ryan McBean, Ronald Fields, Vonnie Holliday, Marcus Thomas, Chris Baker vs. Elvis Dumervil, Marcus Thomas, Ebenezer Ekuban, John Engleberger, Kenny Peterson, Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder, DeWayne Robertson

Advantage:  Peterson, McBean, Fields, Holliday, Thomas, Baker

While this is a tough position to compare to last year, the change of scheme and increase in overall girth gives the 2009 unit the advantage.

Last season, Denver defensive linemen averaged roughly 6’3″, 275-lbs. This year, they average 6’4″, 300-lbs. That alone will help the linebackers greatly.

Consensus: The Broncos’ defensive front appeared much more tough, formidable, and capable of stopping the run in the preseason, but I will be fair and wait to pass judgement until they get it done in the regular season. Wash.

ESPN 1, Sayre 4

 

Linebackers

D.J. Williams, Andra Davis, Elvis Dumervil, Mario Haggan, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Robert Ayers, Jarvis Moss, Darrell Reid vs. D.J. Williams, Boss Bailey, Jamie Winborn, Wesley Woodyard, Spencer Larsen, Mario Haggan

Advantage: Williams, Davis, Dumervil, Haggan, Woodyard, Larsen, Ayers, Moss, Reid

Again, the Broncos simply did what was needed to upgrade these positions. The hybrid linebackers could struggle in coverage at first, but that is a problem that can be fixed through experience. 

Consensus: Improvement

ESPN 1, Sayre 5

 

Cornerbacks

Champ Bailey, Andre Goodman, Alphonso Smith, Jack Williams vs. Champ Bailey, Dre’ Bly, Karl Paymah, Jack Williams, Josh Bell

Advantage: Bailey, Goodman, Smith, Williams

The Broncos upgraded this position greatly this offseason by adding Goodman and Smith.  The only thing they lack is pure depth. On the top end, they are among the best in the league.

Consensus: Upgrade

ESPN 1, Sayre 6

 

Safeties

Brian Dawkins, Renaldo Hill, Josh Barrett, Darcel McBath, David Bruton vs. Marlon McCree, Marquand Manuel, Calvin Lowery, Vernon Fox, Josh Barrett

Advantage:  Dawkins, Hill, Barrett, McBath, Bruton

The Broncos’ 2008 unit was an absolute joke. 

Consensus: Upgrade, by far

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

Specialists

Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Lonie Paxton vs. Matt Prater, Brett Kern, Mike Leach

Advantage:  Neither

This one is a wash.  Both Paxton and Leach are great long-snappers. 

ESPN 1, Sayre 7

 

So, ESPN, it would appear to me that the Broncos have upgraded significantly from their team in 2008 despite losing Jay Cutler.  The schemes and culture of this team have changed drastically, but this is the NFL and these players are going to have to be able to pick things up quickly.

For a team that featured over a dozen rookie performers in 2008 starting at one point, this seasoned, more veteran team would appear to have a much better chance at eight wins than last year’s squad did.

 

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Rookie TE Richard Quinn Arrested

Just days after fellow AFC West player Shawne Merriman was arrested for domestic violence, Denver Broncos rookie tight end Richard Quinn found himself behind bars on the same accusations.

Per the report from the Denver Post, Quinn says he was trying to restrain the woman from hitting him in the face, resulting in him “shaking her to the ground.

The woman engaged in the dispute maintains that Quinn took her cell phone away to prevent her from calling the cops, and Quinn refutes that the only reason he took her cell phone away was so she would not use it as a weapon to hit him in the face with.

Quinn’s agent/ attorney feels his client did everything he was supposed to.

“I’m very proud the way Richard handled this delicate situation by defusing what otherwise could have been a potentially dangerous situation.

”When all the facts come out, people will find out Richard’s done nothing wrong. Richard’s No. 1 concern right now is the welfare of his daughter and to avoid any negative light brought to the Denver Broncos, Richard and his family.”

This is really the last thing the Broncos need right now, and quite frankly, it is absurd.

Quinn was regarded as a player of very high character coming out of North Carolina, and many felt the Broncos “reached” for him in the draft. 

The consensus was that Quinn was to be as high as a high third round pick, and the Broncos did not chance that happening, making a move into the second round to snag the blocking tight end.

It is not my place to pass judgement, but situations like this always leave me confused. 

How do NFL players find themselves in these predicaments?  How do athletes in general seem to make it commonplace for incidents like this to occur?

I read a very convincing article in the latest issue of ESPN The Magazine from an anonymous athlete who suggested that he/she was surprised these types of things do not happen to pro athletes more than they do because of all the temptation, publicity, and attention they get.

I am sure Quinn’s lady friend knows/knew he was a professional athlete, and has egged him on to the point where he cannot even stand it, but violence is not the way to go about it.

Again, I do not know any or all of the details of what actually happened, but Bronco fans can only hope this is just a small speed bump. 

Not that the negative publicity could become any more prevalent for the Broncos…

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Denver Broncos Sign DL Vonnie Holliday, Final Roster Cuts No Surprise

The Denver Post is reporting that the Broncos have agreed to a contract with free agent defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday amidst their massive roster cuts.

Holliday is a 33-year-old veteran who at 6’5″ 288 pounds is a solid defensive lineman who started for the Dolphins last year.

In the wake of recently acquired DE Le Kevin Smith’s knee injury, Holliday’s signing became somewhat of a priority.

Holliday visited the Broncos back in March as well, but left town without signing a deal.

The Broncos have been busy making roster moves today, much like the rest of the league, and here is a list of players who did not make the final cut:

• DL Matthias Askew
• OL Kory Lichtensteiger
• QB Ingle Martin
• CB Rashod Moulton
• OT Clint Oldenburg
• DL Carlton Powell
• LB Lee Robinson
• WR Nate Swift
• RB Marcus Thomas
• WR Matt Willis
• CB Joshua Bell
• CB Tony Carter
• DE Everette Pedescleaux
• G Mitch Erickson
• DE/OLB Tim Crowder
• DE Nic Clemons
• RB Darius Walker
• OL Matt McChesney

There are a couple of surprising names on that list, especially for Broncos fans.

Tim Crowder was a second round pick in 2007, and after a solid rookie campaign, there were high hopes for him. 

Darius Walker was a guy that I thought had an excellent camp and preseason, and who proved worthy of a roster spot above veteran LaMont Jordan.

Kory Lichtensteiger was a fourth round pick last season, but the drafting of Seth Olsen and trading for Russ Hochstein made him expendable.

Fans were also really high on Nate Swift, and he is a strong candidate for the practice squad.

The real story of today, oddly enough, is that Jarvis Moss made the final cut.  Many thought he was on the bubble, and he was, but the Broncos saw enough in him this offseason to give him one more shot.  This will be the last go for Moss.  He needs to make an impact in 2009 or he will most certainly be let go by the 2010 season.

Keep an eye on any Patriots who are released today, or possibly quarterback Kevin O’Connell to be on the Broncos’ radar.

Read more Denver Broncos news on BleacherReport.com

Projecting The Denver Broncos’ Field of 53

Now that the preseason has come to a conclusion, teams have to make their final roster cuts. 

From now until Saturday, 704 NFL hopefuls will be released, waived, placed on injured reserve, or put on some team’s practice squad.

Who will be standing when the Broncos make the big switch from 75 to 53 players? 

Here is how I see it shaking out:

 

QB: (1) Kyle Orton  (2) Chris Simms  (3) Tom Brandstater

Cut: Ingle Martin

 

RB: (1) Correll Buckhalter  (2) Knowshon Moreno  (3)  Peyton Hillis  (4) Darius Walker

Cut: LaMont Jordan, Marcus Thomas

 

WR: (1) Brandon Marshall  (2) Eddie Royal  (3) Brandon Stokley  (4) Jabar Gaffney  (5) Chad Jackson  (6) Brandon Lloyd  (7) Kenny McKinley

Cut: Matthew Willis, Nate Swift

 

TE: (1) Daniel Graham  (2) Tony Scheffler  (3) Richard Quinn

Cut: Marquez Branson

 

OT: (1) Ryan Clady  (2) Ryan Harris  (3) Tyler Polumbus

Cut: Brandon Gorin, Clint Oldenburg

 

OG: (1) Ben Hamilton  (2) Chris Kuper  (3) Seth Olsen  (4) Russ Hochstein

Cut: Mitch Erickson, Matt McChesney

 

C: (1) Casey Wiegmann  (2) Kory Lichtensteiger

Cut: None

 

DE: (1) Ryan McBean  (2) Kenny Peterson  (3) Marcus Thomas  (4) Le Kevin Smith

Cut: Nic Clemons, Mathias Askew, Everette Pedescleaux

 

DT: (1) Ronald Fields  (2) Chris Baker

Cut: Carlton Powell

 

OLB: (1) Mario Haggan  (2) Elvis Dumervil  (3) Robert Ayers  (4) Darrell Reid  (5) Jarvis Moss

Cut: Tim Crowder

 

MLB: (1) D.J. Williams  (2) Andra Davis  (3) Wesley Woodyard  (4) Spencer Larsen

Cut: Lee Robinson, Braxton Kelley

 

CB: (1) Champ Bailey  (2) Andre Goodman  (3) Alphonso Smith  (4) Jack Williams

Cut: Joshua Bell, Tony Carter, Rashod Moulton, D.J. Johnson, Antwain Spann

 

FS: (1) Brian Dawkins  (2) Darcel McBath

Cut: None

 

SS: (1) Renaldo Hill  (2) David Bruton  (3) Josh Barrett

Cut: Vernon Fox

 

K: (1) Matt Prater

Cut: None

 

P: (1) Brett Kern

Cut: None

 

LS: (1) Lonie Paxton

Cut: None

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Broncos-Cardinals: Denver Wins First Game of Josh McDaniels Era, 19-0

Denver, CO–The Denver Broncos (1-3) avoided their first winless preseason since 1960 when they shut out the Arizona Cardinals (0-4) at Invesco Field at Mile High 19-0.

 

Game Recap

The Broncos started with the ball and scored the games first points after a drive that included a beautiful throw, catch, and run involving Tom Brandstater and Chad Jackson that went for 43 yards.

After the catch, Correll Buckhalter had two rushes for 21 yards, putting the Broncos in a goal-to-go situation.

Denver was unable to punch the ball in the end zone, and settled for Matt Prater field goal to put them up 3-0.

The Cardinals’ first drive looked promising at times, including a 36 yard strike from quarterback Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald, but two penalties forced them into obvious passing situations, and the Broncos were able to capitalize and force a punt.

Each team forced the other into a three-and-out on their next possessions.

After a Ben Graham punt put the Broncos on their own 23 yard line, Tom Brandstater appeared to say “We’ve got ’em right where we want ’em,” and he orchestrated an impressive drive.

Denver marched 77 yards down the field thanks to a couple of outstanding hook-ups between Brandstater and veteran Brandon Lloyd, and the drive was capped off by a one yard Darius Walker touchdown run.

The following Cardinals drive resulted in the Broncos’ first turnover of the preseason:  An interception of Kurt Warner by reserve hybrid linebacker/defensive end Darrell Reid.

Reid’s interception resulted in a 37 yard Matt Prater field goal, putting the Broncos ahead 13-0.

Another three-and-out by the Cardinals resulted in yet another Broncos drive that ended in a Matt Prater field goal, putting Denver ahead 16-0.

Arizona quarterback Matt Leinart was picked off on the following drive by rookie safety David Bruton, and the Broncos were in good position to take a 19-0 lead at the half, but decided to go for a fourth-and-four and were unable to convert.

The following Cardinals drive ended in another turnover, a fumble forced by Denver defensive lineman Nic Clemons that was recovered by Bruton.

The fumble gave the Broncos great field position, but Brandstater tried to force a pass to Chad Jackson near the sideline and he was picked off.

The Cardinals started the second half with the ball, but gave it up fairly quickly.  Tyler Palko threw a pass that almost seemed to be intended for Broncos safety Vernon Fox, and the Broncos were in business once again.

A fairly bland Bronco drive resulted in Matt Prater’s fourth field goal of the game, putting the Broncos ahead for good 19-0.

The rest of the game was filled with three-and-outs, and the defensive battle ended with the home team on top. 

Broncos 19, Cardinals 0

 

Random Game Thoughts

• Josh McDaniels and the Broncos earned their first win of 2009, and it could not come soon enough.
• The Broncos made up for three games without forcing a turnover, forcing four total on Thursday night.
• Kenny McKinley and Brandon Lloyd combined for 10 receptions and 106 yards, and they continue to impress as reserve wide receivers.
• LaMont Jordan’s one run tonight was not impressive.  He may be passed by Darius Walker for the fourth and final running back spot.
• The reserve offensive linemen were impressive for the first time this preseason.
• The Broncos have arguably the best depth in the NFL in the secondary.  David Bruton, Alphonso Smith, Darcel McBath, and Jack Williams are all great prospects for the future.
• The Broncos’ defense has been extremely consistent throughout the preseason.  Their run defense only allowed one first down via the ground game, and only 68 yards rushing overall.
• Kurt Warner and the first team offense were absolutely shut down on Thursday night.
• It is going to be tough for the Broncos to keep less than seven wide receivers.

Top Performers

1. David Bruton would get my game ball tonight, and quite honestly, he has been superb all preseason long.  The Broncos drafted the Notre Dame safety in the fourth round to be primarily a gunner on special teams, and throughout the preseason he has been excellent at doing just that.  Thursday night, he picked off a pass and recovered a fumble while recording three tackles.
2. If the Broncos choose to keep 10 defensive backs, I think it is pretty clear that undrafted rookie DJ Johnson has earned the final spot.  He has been making plays throughout the preseason, and tonight led the team with five tackles.
3. Jarvis Moss had his best game I have ever seen.  The third year player was all over the place, and he looked like a former first round pick playing with a bunch of rookies and scrubs.  Moss had a sack, a forced fumble, and three total tackles, one for a loss.  He just made it harder for this team to potentially cut him.
4. Robert Ayers and Tim Crowder each had a sack tonight.  This was big for both of them.  Crowder is fighting for his job, and Ayers has not been very impressive this preseason.
5. Darius Walker has earned a roster spot, in my opinion.  He led the team in rushing this preseason and has had two touchdowns in the last two games.  He runs hard, is quick, and is a good receiver.  LaMont Jordan’s “dud”-like preseason has been less than inspiring.  Walker rushed for 68 yards on 21 carries tonight.
6. Give the game ball to kicker Matt Prater.  Prater was four-for-four in field goal attempts, and the Cardinals only returned two of his six kickoffs.  A phenomenal performance to say the least.
7. Kenny McKinley had a preseason high seven receptions, and he continues to impress.  He leads the Broncos this preseason with 16 receptions and 213 yards.
8. Brandon Lloyd made another highlight-reel catch on Thursday night.  His chemistry with the quarterbacks is going to make it extremely difficult for the Broncos to keep any less than seven wide receivers on their active roster, as crazy as it sounds.

Like I just said, the Broncos are going to have a tough time keeping less than seven wide receivers.  Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Kenny McKinley, Chad Jackson, and Brandon Lloyd should all make the team, based on this preseason and training camp.

With the injured thumb of Jabar Gaffney, I think the Broncos will undoubtedly keep at least six wide receivers.  They also have been no strangers to four and five wide receiver sets, so it would not be surprised if they kept the extra guys around for depth.

The problem is going to be figuring out who to get rid of.  Do they keep six defensive linemen?  Which hybrid linebackers do not make the cut?  Will they keep 10 defensive backs?

Do not get too attached to any one player Broncos fans because come Saturday, 22 will be cut.  The good problem for the Broncos is that they are going to have a tough time deciding which ones.

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Broncos-Cardinals: Things to Watch For in Denver’s Pre-Season Finale

The Josh McDaniels era continues on Thursday night as the Denver Broncos host the Arizona Cardinals.

Unfortunately for McDaniels, he is still seeking that elusive first victory as an NFL head coach, and despite the fact that week four of the preseason is considered to be the most unimportant football game of the year, this particular matchup is very critical for the Broncos.

The new regime in Denver has not gotten off to the most promising start, and sitting on an 0-3 record this preseason, the starting offense has only scored 17 points in three contests.

With injuries to Kyle Orton and Chris Simms, rookie quarterback Tom Brandstater will be making his first career NFL start, but it remains to be seen if he will be joined by any other first team players.

The Broncos are holding out hope that first round pick Knowshon Moreno will get some playing time tonight although it has been reported that Correll Buckhalter will begin the season as the team’s staring running back.

Here are some things to watch for in tonight’s game:

• Can Brandstater lead the Broncos to victory?  This is a huge game for Tom Brandstater.  He needs this experience in case he is called upon when the Broncos travel to Cincinnati on opening day.  The rookie out of Fresno State was less than impressive in his first appearance against Seattle, but settled in somewhat last week against the Bears, leading the offense to two touchdown drives.  This will be the final test for Brandstater, who likely will start the season on the practice squad, especially if the Broncos make a play for quarterback Kevin O’Connell who is a long-shot to make the Lions’ final roster.
• The Broncos’ wide receiver situation should shape up tonight.  With Brandon Marshall’s situation in question and Jabar Gaffney having broken his thumb, it will be interesting to see which wide receivers are kept on the 53 man roster.  Players on the bubble are veterans Brandon Lloyd and Chad Jackson, and rookie Kenny McKinley.  Jackson has been working with the first unit, but Lloyd and McKinley have been the ones making noise this preseason.  The Broncos easily go seven deep at the receiver position when fully healthy, but it remains to be seen whether or not they will keep seven on the final roster.  It will definitely be hard to lose any one of Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Chad Jackson, Brandon Lloyd, or Kenny McKinley.
• Backup offensive linemen will be seriously tested.  They have been, for the most part this preseason, awful.  Russ Hochstein was acquired for depth, and it is likely the team will make quite a few cuts up front after tonight. 
• The young defensive backs will have their time to shine tonight.  The Broncos are going to be facing Brian St. Pierre for most of the night tonight as Matt Leinart is out with an injury, and the likes of Josh Barrett, David Bruton, Alphonso Smith, Jack Williams, and Darcel McBath will have a chance to prove their worth on this team as backup defensive backs.
• There is a chance we could have our second sighting of Knowshon Moreno.  His production in 2009 is huge.  The Broncos passed on a lot of defensive talent to acquire Moreno in the draft, and he needs to have a big year in this offense.  Likewise, it is going to be important for Robert Ayers to step up in this game.  He has not had an impressive preseason thus far.

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