Courtney makes his decision!! Finally

[Hercules Rockefeller]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7462-2005Mar28.html
(registration required)

Brown Opts to Go to Denver

By Nunyo Demasio
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, March 28, 2005; 5:32 PM

Courtney Brown, the talented yet injury-prone defensive end, today accepted the Denver Broncos's offer, concluding a protracted courtship involving several suitors -- including the Washington Redskins -- according to sources familiar with the situation.

The 6-foot-4, 290-pounder kept the Redskins and Broncos in suspense through a process that started March 14, by twice postponing his decision -- initially the previous weekend and then Thursday. As recently as Friday, Brown remained torn between the teams, sources said, after final telephone pitches from Denver Coach Mike Shanahan and Redskins Coach Joe Gibbs.

Terms of the contract were undisclosed, but sources described it as a multiyear deal with incentives heavily tied to Brown's ability to stay healthy.

Gibbs, also the team president, wasn't available to comment today.

Brown's decision was the latest free-agent setback -- albeit a relatively minor one -- for Washington, which failed to re-sign linebacker Antonio Pierce (New York Giants) and cornerback Fred Smoot (Minnesota Vikings). One of Washington's goals in the offseason was landing a pass-rush specialist. Last year, the Redskins were tied for fourth in the NFC with 40 sacks, yet most came on blitzes by linebackers and defensive ends. (Only 10 sacks were collected by the club's regular defensive ends, led by Ron Warner's 3.5.)

Brown -- the top overall pick in the 2000 draft -- was released by the Cleveland Browns on March 14 after declining to take a substantial pay cut. Brown drew heavy interest despite having missed 33 games during his five-year NFL career, finishing the past four seasons on the injured reserve.

The Broncos and Redskins -- the first teams Brown visited -- were considered the front-runners, although the Jacksonville Jaguars also made an offer. The Seattle Seahawks, the last team Brown visited, balked at a contract offer.

The Broncos were so certain about landing Brown that they informed other NFL team officials and publicly expressed confidence. Conversely, Gibbs expressed skepticism about landing Brown, noting his visits with other teams after Washington's offer.

Denver held Brown's first visit March 15. But the day before -- only hours after Brown's release -- Gibbs and Greg Blache, Washington's de facto defensive line coach, flew to Cleveland for dinner with Brown and wife, Candace. On March 17, Brown visited Redskins Park before bucking a free-agency trend by departing without accepting Washington's offer.

The weekend of March 19, Brown was expected to choose between the Broncos and Redskins and to cancel his other visits. Instead, Brown visited the Jacksonville Jaguars (March 21) and Seattle Seahawks (last Tuesday). Then after telling teams that he would make a decision by Thursday, Brown informed them he needed more time.

He rebuffed the Redskins despite having ties to the club. Star linebacker LaVar Arrington played at Penn State with Brown from 1996 to 1999 and the two remain close. Washington recently signed Pierson Prioleau, a reserve safety and stellar special-teams player, who is Brown's second cousin. And Foge Fazio, a Redskins defensive consultant, was Cleveland's defensive coordinator in 2001 and 2002. Yet another link was that Brown's agent, Marvin Demoff, also represents Gregg Williams -- assistant head coach, defense.

Beyond the Broncos's offer, their sole tie was apparently enough: Defensive line coach Andre Patterson, who held the same position in Cleveland and formed a rapport with Brown.

Redskins Note: The Redskins announced today the re-signing of kicker Jeff Chandler.

[Rascal]

Well at least the contract is incentive laden largely based on him staying healthy.

Now go talk to Steve and hit the weights and lose some weight...I would prefer him be about 270-280.

[Master___Pain]

Time will tell on this deal. I am not really excited. Call it tempered enthusiasm.

[Hotrod]

Welcome aboard gimpy ;D

[illbroncsfn]

about time!!!!!!!!!!!

[Rascal]

now who do we get?

[clint7]

Good Lord...what a drama/saga this turned out to be. It's about f'ing time, pal!

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Still think Douglas is a must for the LDE position opposite of Courtney

[TheManeMan]

Welcome to Denver Courtney...get injured, and I'll kill you...;D

[bronco militia]

ugh

[clint7]

Still think Douglas is a must for the LDE position opposite of Courtney

Agreed. I'm surprised Douglas hasn't signed with someone yet. Let's hope now that Brown has finally decided to give an answer, the Denver brass quickly gives Douglas a call.

[Rascal]

Even if Pryce stays we need Douglas in case Brown can't stay healthy.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Agreed. I'm surprised Douglas hasn't signed with someone yet. Let's hope now that Brown has finally decided to give an answer, the Denver brass quickly gives Douglas a call.

Williamson did say the other day that the available cap room was for 2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams along with Coleman and Elliss.

[Rascal]

So know who do you like between Douglas, Jasper and Tony Williams?

And who do you like between the Ellis's and Coleman?

As Herc mentioned we should be albe to get one of the first group and one of the second group based on our current cap limit. I'm beginning to think that Pryce is going to stick around...but do you think he will play DT again or want to play DE?

[TheManeMan]

Ellis Johnson is a must re-sign, IMO...

[Hercules Rockefeller]

It's funny to read some comments on ExtremeSkins now.

Apparently the Skins are a better team, Lavar will the one who going to the playoffs not Courtney, and the Skins are up and coming (with no offense besides CP).

[clint7]

Williamson did say the other day that the available cap room was for 2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams along with Coleman and Elliss.

2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams?
or
2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams AND Coleman & Elliss?

I guess, what I'm asking is 2 of 4 possible players or 2 of 6 possible players?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

It wasn't Ellis Johnson, it was Luther Elliss. EJ hasn't been mentioned for awhile.

[chanesaw]

Does this mean Ellis Johnson isn't coming back?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams?
or
2 of: Brown, Douglas, Jasper, and Tony Williams AND Coleman & Elliss?

I guess, what I'm asking is 2 of 4 possible players or 2 of 6 possible players?


2 of 4 with MC and LE.

[bronco militia]

It's funny to read some comments on ExtremeSkins now.

Apparently the Skins are a better team, Lavar will the one who going to the playoffs not Courtney, and the Skins are up and coming (with no offense besides CP).

you never know...after all, the Skins play in the lame ass NFC...

[watermock]

We better sign another DL just to open the door for this cripple. We better put a performance clause into his contract to see if he can even walk to his bank to deposit his signing bonus. If we plopped down more than 4 million SB I'm going to be livid.

[clint7]

2 of 4 with MC and LE.

Thanks, man.

I guess I'd rather have Douglas than Jasper, I really don't want Williams...I mean that would be TWO guys with some serious health issues signed to help the line.

As for Ellis Johnson...last I heard he's asking for more cash than Denver is offering him.

[illbroncsfn]

ESPN and KFFL arent' reporting the signing as of yet, but of course Herc posted the article- thanks.

I'm in the Ellis Johnson fan club as well, would rather have him back than any of the other warm bodies.

[broncos love]

Thank god he finally made his decision and Im very exicted about the pickup or it just might be my orange glasses getting in the way. GO BRONCOS IN 2005

[Clockwork Orange]

It's funny to read some comments on ExtremeSkins now.

Apparently the Skins are a better team, Lavar will the one who going to the playoffs not Courtney, and the Skins are up and coming (with no offense besides CP).

These are the same people who said that Champ Bailey was only made to look good by Fred Smoot, but now that Smoot left for Minnesota they say he's overrated and not very good either. Go figure.

This is a decent signing due to the contract being incentive laden. If he gets hurt he costs us very little, if he stays healthy he's got the ability to contribute. Nothing to get too excited about, but not much downside to it either.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Jacksonville paper says the same thing

http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/032805/jag_brown.shtml

[clint7]

I'm in the Ellis Johnson fan club as well, would rather have him back than any of the other warm bodies.

I had been for it too, especially since a draft pick is going to Atlanta...would like that to be more than a one year rental. But at the same time, I don't know what kind of cash he is wanting. This was the last quote I saw regarding him, didn't sound promising...

Talks with defensive tackle Ellis Johnson, who played in 13 games for the Broncos last season, are at an impasse because of financial considerations.

"They haven't offered what we want," said Johnson's agent, David Levine. "If they do, we will sign a contract. If not, we won't."

[watermock]

Until his wheelchair is up for dibs on E-Bay, I'm not sold. After Gold coming in about 3.5 million more in SB than I thought he was worth max, I'm holding my breath on this one.

[CBF1]

CBF1 approves this move! Finally

[kappys]

This could be a great signing for us, but like everybody, lets all hold our breath for a while. Still, he was a beast even in his rookie season before the injuries brought him down.

[watermock]

"They haven't offered what we want," said Johnson's agent, David Levine. "If they do, we will sign a contract. If not, we won't."

I love the 3rd person "we" from this slimeball. Mock doesn't like it at all.

What a classic name for an agent. I keep seeing that agent from the Blues Brothers, Marty Slime or something. He's wearing a huge gold chain that would make CP blush. Jake blackmails him.

[longtimer]

This what you call a high risk high reward deal. It night not be that when it comes to the sallie cap but it is when you look at it from an opporotunity cost stand piont. With browns signing it will affect what other player at his position that we will not sign or draft now thus the high risk but IF and that is a big if he stays heathy and preforms up to his talent level then we get our reward. With all that said I'm for the signing it will go along way in how we aproach this draft we no longer have to draft a DE in the first round if a better player at a other position is availible. Because Shanny will seem to think he has the DE position taken care of via FA with Brown.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

So who is the healthier of the two, Brown or Pryce?

EDIT: And anyone know what Brown's Late night habits might be, like does he like pancakes?

[orangefever]

Why is a DC paper breaking this story. I dont like this signing. Better get the hot tubs ready for Mr Brown. He spends more time there than on the field.

If we "blinked" and upped the offer we're stupid.

[Tredici]

All things considered I'm still not convinced Hayward didn't have more upside. The Jags still came out okay, at least they got a guy who tends to stay on the field whilst everyone else nurses booboos.

[eddie mac]

Think I'll wait for the numbers to come out on this deal before I do back-flips. We should still be able to add Douglas and possibly Jasper as he would get a similar contract to Elliss and Coleman, 1 year vet minimum which only hits the cap for $465,000 in saying that though only $250,000 or so comes of your cap for each player.

[TheDave]

I'm assuming that the Broncos Medical staff knows something we don't. As with the Warren acquisition i like the upside with this. Now all we need to do is get Pryce and Shanahan to kiss and make up and our DLine issues are solved. Good now i can go back to spamming the entire front office my Draft David Baas propaganda.

[watermock]

Gee, why would we be skeptical of FA DL signings?

[Ratboy]

Sweet!!!!

[watermock]

All I know is it's almost April, Beelzebub is out chasing birds and has turned Orange. I'm not kidding. The sun hit hit him and he turned orange. I call it a good omen for the Broncos, a bad omen for birds trying to nest here.

[CBF1]

Rocky Mountain news also has the story on their website.

[Ballhawk]

Well Clev wanted Brown back, so now they are short a DE...send Pryce and next years 4th for #34 pick. Then say hello to Pollack, Ware and Bass :) scrap the 3-4 and watch the 2 rookies fly off the edge:)

[Ratboy]

This is actually a good pick up if he can stay healthy. I'm stoked about it.

[backup qb]

We don't want Hugh Douglas. He's as washed up as Marco Coleman. Oh wait, he's one of our starting ends. M##herf##ker!

[Atlas]

This is actually a good pick up if he can stay healthy. I'm stoked about it.

Brown is associated with that not so flattering word. POTENTIAL:

Hopefully he can put his injuries behind him.

[clint7]

We don't want Hugh Douglas. He's as washed up as Marco Coleman. Oh wait, he's one of our starting ends. M##herf##ker!

It's not Hugh Douglas we are talking about. It's Marques Douglas from Baltimore.

[Crushaholic]

I'm glad it was this Cleveland player, and not Jeff Garcia, who became a Bronco.

[Rich Karlis]

After coming back from commercial on NFL Total Access Rich Eisen said: " Courtney Brown signed a 5 year deal with Denver...He didnt say anything about the $$ of the contract.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

After coming back from commercial on NFL Total Access Rich Eisen said: " Courtney Brown signed a 5 year deal with Denver...He didnt say anything about the $$ of the contract.

Shefter supposedly said the same length on KOA

[Antilles]

Well, at the very least, we can't complain about low-round, bargain basement players on the DL any more. 3 first rounders and a 2nd rounder all in the starting DL. Now we get to start bitching about high-round sissys who can't stay healthy. Anyone in Denver feel like kicking Palepoi in the knee for consistancy's sake?

For the record, I'm more excited about this signing than the Warren trade. At least Brown has shown flashes of brilliance at this level.

[Broncobuddy7]

How many years does Pryce have left on his contract?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

How many years does Pryce have left on his contract?

Though '08 or '09 I think

[baja]

I don't get you guys this is a great signing, if the guy plays it will be lights out and if he sits he doesn't get paid. That my fellow Broncos fans is a perfect world.

I love this signing !!

[Ballhawk]

I don't get you guys this is a great signing, if the guy plays it will be lights out and if he sits he doesn't get paid. That my fellow Broncos fans is a perfect world.

I love this signing !!

Sitting and not getting paid is nothing to get excited about. As for the first option, just do not see it happening.

[broncohaven]

I don't get you guys this is a great signing, if the guy plays it will be lights out and if he sits he doesn't get paid. That my fellow Broncos fans is a perfect world.

I love this signing !!
I couldn't agree more. It seems a can't lose sitaution.

[eddie mac]

I don't get you guys this is a great signing, if the guy plays it will be lights out and if he sits he doesn't get paid. That my fellow Broncos fans is a perfect world.

I love this signing !!

We dont actually know that yet bro until the numbers on the deal come out but if it was handled as well as Ian Gold's was then I'm sure Courtney has wriggled some up front money out of them!!

[dsmoot]

Every year we have someone we are counting on with health problems. We are taking a big chance with this guy. If the pass rush had been not great but decent then the risk of taking him on would not seem so severe. I don't see how we can afford to have two starters with similar questions at the same weak position. Pryce is gone unless he restructures significantly to go out and get one of the other unsigned individuals. Please don't bring up Dorsett Davis. With our recent draft success at defensive line - don't count on a college guy stepping in to be an immediate answer. We will not win a playoff game unless this area of the defense improves significantly. Remember, we don't have TD, Elway, a young Smith, Sharpe, McCaffrey to ball control and hide a weaker defense.

[Atlas]

Pryce is gone unless he restructures significantly to go out and get one of the other unsigned individuals. Please don't bring up Dorsett Davis. With our recent draft success at defensive line - don't count on a college guy stepping in to be an immediate answer. We will not win a playoff game unless this area of the defense improves significantly. Remember, we don't have TD, Elway, a young Smith, Sharpe, McCaffrey to ball control and hide a weaker defense.

I agree that is why Denver needs to keep Pryce for this year.

[baja]

Sitting and not getting paid is nothing to get excited about. As for the first option, just do not see it happening.

I don't get you guys first you whine, bitch and moan when we don't sign anyone that you whine, bitch and moan when we sign a potential great player at our position of greatest need to a no lose contract.

You remind be of a toothless pecker checker from Tijuana, never satisfied.

[Rascal]

Well i like the move assuming as the article suggests that his contract is incentive based and dependent upon him staying healthy. If it is a five year deal even better, that way the cap hit won't be high this year and can still pay him adequately.

I still think we should get one more DE and DT though.

[clint7]

I don't get you guys first you whine, bitch and moan when we don't sign anyone that you whine, bitch and moan when we sign a potential great player at our position of greatest need to a no lose contract.

You remind be of a toothless pecker checker from Tijuana, never satisfied.

Ha! LOL Ha!

It does seem like this off-season Denver gets hammered for not signing anyone and then hammered for whomever they do sign. Geez, it's not like Dwight Freeney, Julius Peppers, Terrell Suggs, and Jason Taylor are all on the market begging to come to Denver. Let's see how some of these moves play out. They are addressing needs, working within a budget, and getting some things done. It isn't rocking the NFL but it is coming together.

[Ballhawk]

I don't get you guys first you whine, bitch and moan when we don't sign anyone that you whine, bitch and moan when we sign a potential great player at our position of greatest need to a no lose contract.

You remind be of a toothless pecker checker from Tijuana, never satisfied.

The real value of this signing is that Brown was cut so it wont affect our comp picks next year...now if we could just sign one more punter...

[LifersRaiders]

Now Denver will have two injured d-linemen in Brown and noodle-spined Pryce.

[Doufer]

that means we re not going to draft shaun cody! suck that to whoever wanted a DE in the 1st round.

[JCMElway]

All I know is it's almost April, Beelzebub is out chasing birds and has turned Orange. I'm not kidding. The sun hit hit him and he turned orange. I call it a good omen for the Broncos, a bad omen for birds trying to nest here.

Rep for vicious outdoor/indoor orange cats! I've got one too.

Jason

[Broncobuddy7]

"It is believed Brown's decision came down to Denver and Washington. All of the contract proposals were reportedly in the same financial range, and laden with incentives, with the Broncos perhaps gaining a modest edge with a slightly superior bonus package."

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2024090

[Broncobuddy7]

"Brown, 27, finished each of the last four seasons on injured reserve. He continues to rehabilitate from what is known as a Lis Franc sprain to his left foot, an injury from which only a few players have recovered and enjoyed productive careers.

Like the other teams with which he visited, the Broncos believe Brown will fully recover from the foot injury that limited him to just two games last season and perhaps reach the kind of productivity that has eluded him to this point in his career."

[watermock]

I figure he's headed to IR.

I just don't buy this move. First the guy is bone on bone knee, his leg is so shot up that Buffalo Bill couldn't find meat.

His foot is trampled, he's missed 33 games in 4 years. I'm sorry, and I'm going to be even more sorry when I find out how much we paid. The guy is a stand up person, but man...it's all meat to me, and the guy is broken down. Jesus, I read he isn't even going to be cleared to run till May.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

"Brown, 27, finished each of the last four seasons on injured reserve. He continues to rehabilitate from what is known as a Lis Franc sprain to his left foot, an injury from which only a few players have recovered and enjoyed productive careers.

Like the other teams with which he visited, the Broncos believe Brown will fully recover from the foot injury that limited him to just two games last season and perhaps reach the kind of productivity that has eluded him to this point in his career."
That doesn't sound good!

--------------------------------------
Lisfranc Sprains:
Treatment

Treatment for a Lisfranc injury depends on the severity of the injury. If the bones have not been forced out of position, you will probably have to wear a cast and refrain from putting weight on the foot for about six weeks. When the cast is removed, you may have to wear a rigid arch support. Your orthopaedist will also recommend foot exercises to build strength and help restore full range of motion.

Often, operative treatment is needed to stabilize the bones and hold them in place until healing is complete. Pins, wires or screws may be used. Afterwards, you will have to wear a cast and limit weightbearing on the foot for six to eight weeks. A walking brace may be prescribed when the fixation devices are removed. You may also have to wear an arch support and a rigid soled shoe until all symptoms have disappeared. In some cases, if arthritis develops in these joints, the bones may have to be fused together.

It is important to follow your doctor's orders and refrain from activities until you are given the go-ahead. If you return to activities too quickly, you may easily suffer another injury, resulting in damage to the blood vessels, the development of painful arthritis and an even longer healing time.
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=315&topcategory=Foot

[Dr. Broncenstein]

this sucks.... bring out the gimp....

[watermock]

Pins, wires or screws may be used.

Sounds like a Greg Robinson Defense. The only thing not mentioned was duct tape.

[Broncoman13]

I don't get you guys first you whine, bitch and moan when we don't sign anyone that you whine, bitch and moan when we sign a potential great player at our position of greatest need to a no lose contract.

You remind be of a toothless pecker checker from Tijuana, never satisfied.


The funny thing is, if we didn't get Brown there would be people bitching about our salary cap and not being able to offer enough money to FA's.

Courtney, WELCOME TO DENVER! Now get in the weight room, trim down to 270, and be ready for opening day!!! For those of you that haven't watched him, he is certainly not the same player he was at Penn St and that has a lot to do with his weight. I hope the Broncos can recognize that and will allow him to play at a lighter weight. Kind of doubt it though..... seeing how we have the old Browns DL coach. Also given that we are thinking about running the 3-4 that means Brown will either be a 290 LB DE or a 265 RLB. I prefer the Rush LB.

[Broncoman13]

Considering how much Shanny likes the injury freaks what are the chances of Mr. HGH ending up in Denver?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Courtney, WELCOME TO DENVER! Now get in the weight room, trim down to 270, and be ready for opening day!!!

Yep
Courtney at 290= Cleveland Brown Courtney

[Bronco_Beerslug]

The funny thing is, if we didn't get Brown there would be people bitching about our salary cap and not being able to offer enough money to FA's.

Courtney, WELCOME TO DENVER! Now get in the weight room, trim down to 270, and be ready for opening day!!!
I would think he's going to have to lose all the weight he possibly can after reading about his club foot.

[Broncobuddy7]

Adam Schefter said Brown will participate in the Broncos offseason workouts starting April 4th. He didn't say to what extent though.

[delany]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/s/profile/cbrown.html

This article was written prior to Brown being drafted...

If you do a soft focus on all the 'potential' and 'ability' hype...which obviously has been stricken down due to injuries...

...what I didn't know about Brown was his attitude and demenor. His character.

It is nice to know that you don't have to worry about a player going IHOP on you.

[Arkansas Bronco]

I was unhappy with the way things were going but am much happier now that we actualy addressed the DL again (after Warren of course).

[Maximus]

Brown is associated with that not so flattering word. POTENTIAL:

Hopefully he can put his injuries behind him.

Warren & Brown are both associated with Jamal Lewis getting 500 rushing yards in 2 games!

[~Crash~]

Warren & Brown are both associated with Jamal Lewis getting 500 rushing yards in 2 games!

Well that makes me feel way better !!! ugh!~

[watermock]

This is comming from a team that slid it's #7, their 7th and Nap Harris to Minnesota for another head case in Moss.

That's pretty amusing since Oakland hasn't signed crap for it's defense this year. I have no clue what they are going to try to present on the field. They might have the worst D in the NFL next year, so sit down and shut up.

All they have is an oft injured corner that has the Postons as agents and commanding over 10 million.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Warren & Brown are both associated with Jamal Lewis getting 500 rushing yards in 2 games!

Going to stay optimistic and reply this: That was the whole team that let that happen not just the 2 of them. The LB have to make plays also and the saftys.

[Tombstone RJ]

Warren & Brown are both associated with Jamal Lewis getting 500 rushing yards in 2 games!

Did CB even play in those games? If he didn't, that's not good, if he did, that's even worse...

[Maximus]

This is comming from a team that slid it's #7, their 7th and Nap Harris to Minnesota for another head case in Moss.

That's pretty amusing since Oakland hasn't signed crap for it's defense this year. I have no clue what they are going to try to present on the field. They might have the worst D in the NFL next year, so sit down and shut up.

All they have is an oft injured corner that has the Postons as agents and commanding over 10 million.

Don't get all pissy with me Mock... It's not my fault that Al took Moss away from your favorite team :stuck:

I'm merely bringing up the fact that both of these players were associated with a 295 yard rushing game by Lewis and 205 in the second game. Warren was the NT. I'm not sure if he played every down or even if he started but I know he played. Cleveland is revamping that dline for some reason... Think about it!

[Hulamau]

Not sure I like the part about the "Lis Franc" sprain, but hopefully the Bronco docs have this wired and he'll be the exception to the rule with this injury. Man, the guy has sure been snake bit so far in his career.

Free agent DE picks Denver over three teams
By Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com
Len Pasquarelli Archive

Free agent defensive end Courtney Brown, sought avidly by four teams despite a career marred by injuries and a glaring lack of production, has reached a contract agreement in principle with the Denver Broncos.

Financial details of a multi-year contract, which is expected to be signed later this week, were not immediately available.

Brown Released by the Cleveland Browns on March 14, the five-year veteran chose the Broncos' offer over proposals from Washington, Jacksonville and Seattle. The Browns had also indicated an interest in re-signing the former Penn State star to a deal more palatable than the $8 million he was owed under his original contract. That included a roster bonus of $2.5 million and base salary of $5.5 million for 2005.

It is believed Brown's decision came down to Denver and Washington. All of the contract proposals were reportedly in the same financial range, and laden with incentives, with the Broncos perhaps gaining a modest edge with a slightly superior bonus package.

With the Broncos, who had put their pursuit of other free agent defensive linemen on hold while they awaited Brown's decision, he will be reunited with Andre Patterson, his position coach in Cleveland the past two seasons. Patterson has been very outspoken in his support of Brown, and publicly defended him against detractors who have pointed out the poor numbers he has posted in a star-crossed NFL tenure.

Denver will incorporate some 3-4 fronts into its defense this season and feels that Brown has the hybrid-type skills to be productive in that scheme.

But in five seasons, Brown has only 17 sacks and has never demonstrated the kind of upfield explosiveness Cleveland saw in him when it made him the first overall choice in the 2000 draft. Cleveland paid him approximately $27 million for five years and Brown missed 33 games with knee, ankle, neck, biceps and foot injuries.

Brown, 27, finished each of the last four seasons on injured reserve. He continues to rehabilitate from what is known as a 'Lis Franc' sprain to his left foot, an injury from which only a few players have recovered and enjoyed productive careers.

Like the other teams with which he visited, the Broncos believe Brown will fully recover from the foot injury that limited him to just two games last season and perhaps reach the kind of productivity that has eluded him to this point in his career.

The Broncos lost their top pass-rusher, Reggie Hayward, to the Jacksonville Jaguars as an unrestricted free agent earlier this month. Denver has auditioned a number of defensive linemen and, in addition to Brown, demonstrated interest in end Marques Douglas of Baltimore, and tackles Ed Jasper of Atlanta and Cincinnati's Tony Williams. Even with the acquisition of Brown, the Broncos will almost certainly sign at least one more veteran defensive lineman.

[Clockwork Orange]

With all of those names tossed out there about another possible Bronco signing along the D-line, where on earth is Chris Hovan?

Honestly, is he such a scrub that no one is giving him a look? From everything I've read this offseason he's made one visit (to Cleveland) and that was weeks ago.

If no one wants the guy (and that appears to be the case) I'd say try and land him for a cheap deal and put him in the rotation.

[delany]

With all of those names tossed out there about another possible Bronco signing along the D-line, where on earth is Chris Hovan?

Honestly, is he such a scrub that no one is giving him a look? From everything I've read this offseason he's made one visit (to Cleveland) and that was weeks ago.

If no one wants the guy (and that appears to be the case) I'd say try and land him for a cheap deal and put him in the rotation.

I thought the issue was that Hovan's agent has set his sticker price very high..thereby pricing any would be suitors from even taking a look.

[Clockwork Orange]

I thought the issue was that Hovan's agent has set his sticker price very high..thereby pricing any would be suitors from even taking a look.

Ahh, didn't know about that. There's the explanation.

I'm only in favor of Hovan if he signs dirt cheap. Otherwise, pass.

Thanks for the heads up. :thumbsup:

[dustybottoms]

With all of those names tossed out there about another possible Bronco signing along the D-line, where on earth is Chris Hovan?

Honestly, is he such a scrub that no one is giving him a look? From everything I've read this offseason he's made one visit (to Cleveland) and that was weeks ago.

If no one wants the guy (and that appears to be the case) I'd say try and land him for a cheap deal and put him in the rotation.


Scrub I guess. from what I can tell though, HOvan would be in the OVER rated category, not the scrub category.

I always thought he was a stud till i moved to minneapolis. One minute they were doing monday night specials on the guy and his american flag tatoos- hes the great white hope real american hero blahblah blah. the next minute, he's a scrub.

[RaiderH8r]

I thought the issue was that Hovan's agent has set his sticker price very high..thereby pricing any would be suitors from even taking a look.
And it seems he's lost some of the intensity he played with during the Randle years in Minnie-caca. I guess giving up the cream and the clear will do that to you.....B*rry...

[delany]

And it seems he's lost some of the intensity he played with during the Randle years in Minnie-caca. I guess giving up the cream and the clear will do that to you.....B*rry...

lol....see dude...sometimes you can actually be funny...

[Atlas]

Adam Schefter said Brown will participate in the Broncos offseason workouts starting April 4th. He didn't say to what extent though.

The first week or so he'll practice getting out of his wheel chair and walking to the sauna

[Atlas]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/s/profile/cbrown.html

This article was written prior to Brown being drafted...

If you do a soft focus on all the 'potential' and 'ability' hype...which obviously has been stricken down due to injuries...

...what I didn't know about Brown was his attitude and demenor. His character.

It is nice to know that you don't have to worry about a player going IHOP on you.

That's what I got from Cleveland fans. Lot of them said good ridence but it seemed all of them said he was a good character guy.

[Atlas]

With all of those names tossed out there about another possible Bronco signing along the D-line, where on earth is Chris Hovan?

Honestly, is he such a scrub that no one is giving him a look? From everything I've read this offseason he's made one visit (to Cleveland) and that was weeks ago.

If no one wants the guy (and that appears to be the case) I'd say try and land him for a cheap deal and put him in the rotation.

Brown has injuries to point to. Hovan has no excuse for his suckiness.

[Cito Pelon]

Waste of cap room.

As people have pointed out, this years crop of FA's and day one draft guys wasn't so great, but I've said all along if that's the case, go out and get yourself one stud in the first round, and try to set yourself up for another first round stud next year. Don't waste your money on Gold, Warren, Alexander, Brown. Not gonna improve the team that way. Those four guys put together don't equal one stud.

[wabbit]

I think it's important to point out that the Bronco coaches, particularly Larry Coyer, are higher than a kite over DE Anton Palepoi.

He is one of the reasons the team believed...and likely still believes that Trevor Pryce is expendable.

So, the additions of Brown & Warren...possibly Ellis Johnson, Luther Ellis, along with a likely 1st round DE or DT...AND the possible addition of one more D-lineman, either through FA now, or after June 1st...the team believes the line will be a good one...better than last year and improved in the pass rush.

Whether you believe that or not is another matter until it's shown on the field, and that's understandable...way too many iffy guys for my taste as well.

[Mile High Shack]

my reaction is tempered

:injured: <----I just don't hope we see this all the time

[RaiderH8r]

I see that Shanny and Co. have clearly id'd their problem and are working to address it as a priority. That's all I ask. At least they didn't look at their D and decide to get a new coordinator because that alone would bolster a hopelessly sh!tty Defense....ahem....I'm looking at the Chiefs right about now....

[bendog]

Well one postive is that CB would probably not beat some idiot up in an IHOP parking lot because he'd prolly slip and fall getting out of his booth

[fontaine]

That doesn't sound good!

--------------------------------------
Lisfranc Sprains:
Treatment

Treatment for a Lisfranc injury depends on the severity of the injury. If the bones have not been forced out of position, you will probably have to wear a cast and refrain from putting weight on the foot for about six weeks. When the cast is removed, you may have to wear a rigid arch support. Your orthopaedist will also recommend foot exercises to build strength and help restore full range of motion.

Often, operative treatment is needed to stabilize the bones and hold them in place until healing is complete. Pins, wires or screws may be used. Afterwards, you will have to wear a cast and limit weightbearing on the foot for six to eight weeks. A walking brace may be prescribed when the fixation devices are removed. You may also have to wear an arch support and a rigid soled shoe until all symptoms have disappeared. In some cases, if arthritis develops in these joints, the bones may have to be fused together.

It is important to follow your doctor's orders and refrain from activities until you are given the go-ahead. If you return to activities too quickly, you may easily suffer another injury, resulting in damage to the blood vessels, the development of painful arthritis and an even longer healing time.
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=315&topcategory=Foot

Just to let everyone know, Coutrney brown doesn't have a Lisfranc Sprain which has ended the career of so many players.

He had surgery to repair the Lisfranc tendon in his left foot. Unless I'm mistaken, the injury is different and not affecting the bone structure. That only leaves his gimpy knees and messed up pecs I guess.

The Skins/Broncos/Jax etc would not attempt to sign him if they did not think he would be ready to play this season.

[Odysseus]

I think it's important to point out that the Bronco coaches, particularly Larry Coyer, are higher than a kite over DE Anton Palepoi.

He is one of the reasons the team believed...and likely still believes that Trevor Pryce is expendable.

So, the additions of Brown & Warren...possibly Ellis Johnson, Luther Ellis, along with a likely 1st round DE or DT...AND the possible addition of one more D-lineman, either through FA now, or after June 1st...the team believes the line will be a good one...better than last year and improved in the pass rush.

Whether you believe that or not is another matter until it's shown on the field, and that's understandable...way too many iffy guys for my taste as well.

Palepoi deserves consideration. Trevor can't restructure low enough for these guys if this is true. I would love a first round pickup of something for DL. They need to do something with long range considerations.

I honestly think that if they get a couple of breaks they could be a heck of a lot better than last year. The breakdown always seems to come in execution. Having skilled players and getting it done are two different things.

I just hope we just maul the the AFCW with some payback.

[Rascal]

No rave reviews for the Broncos' moves
Others are not sold on four former Browns

By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News
March 31, 2005

The song says Cleveland Rocks and the Denver Broncos apparently were ready to sing the tune all the way through March.

In a free-agent shopping spree that has landed four former Cleveland Browns defensive linemen in the Broncos' Dove Valley complex in a three-week span, Denver's decision makers have gone where few, if any, teams have gone before.


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Not only have they acquired four players - Gerard Warren, Courtney Brown, Ebenezer Ekuban and Michael Myers - from the same roster, they have taken all four players from the same meeting room inside the Browns' Berea, Ohio, complex.

Warren, Brown and Ekuban are former first-round draft picks who have struggled to meet those expectations. Plus, Brown and Ekuban have medical questions and will not be able to run all out until at least May. So why have Brown, Warren and Ekuban not played up to the potential most teams believed they had when they were drafted?

The Rocky Mountain News on Wednesday surveyed six personnel executives - four in the AFC, two in the NFC - to seek some answers.

Brown was the first pick of the 2000 draft, Warren the third pick of the 2001 draft and Ekuban the 20th pick of the 1999 draft.

Denver coach Mike Shanahan, meanwile, has lauded the potential of the group, particularly Warren and Brown, and it is clear the Broncos believe they can do with the four what the Browns were unable to.

DE Courtney Brown

The consensus among the personnel evaluators was Brown simply has been injured too much to find how far his ability can take him. Though some teams did not consider Brown the top player on the board in the 2000 draft, virtually all teams projected him among the top five, so there is little question he is the kind of player teams are seeking at the position.

Shanahan has even called Brown "a freak."

But Brown has missed 33 games in the past five years because of injuries, including 14 this past season with a torn ligament in his left foot. He failed a physical before his release at Cleveland earlier this month and will not be ready to go all out until at least later this spring.

Because players rarely get healthier as they get older, Brown's injury-marred past is a concern, the executives said. His health also has impeded his progress on the field, they say, because he has not put together a long string of games - at least two seasons worth - to take the rough edges off his technique.

Instead, he seems to always be rehabilitating, only to be injured again once he begins to find a rhythm. For an example of what Brown can be when he is at his best, most point to a seven-game stretch in 2003 when he made six sacks and forced three fumbles.

However, the personnel executives say Brown simply might not be physically strong enough to survive the poundings he takes because he often is rehabbing from specific injuries instead of conditioning his whole body.

Shanahan has countered the injury risk by saying Brown is "tired of being hurt" and is ready for a fresh start.

DT Gerard Warren

He is the biggest enigma of the group, the personnel executives say. They all were quick to say Warren is a talented player with top-shelf athletic ability, yet Warren has yet to be voted to a Pro Bowl or record more than 51/2 sacks in a season.

The personnel executives look at the fact there were 10 games in Warren's first three NFL seasons in which he was credited with two or fewer tackles and say his effort might be questionable at times.

They also say Warren does not play enough to an offensive lineman's weakness or vary his approach enough when attacking an opponent week to week. Opposing linemen know what he is going to do and simply wait for what is expected.

Shanahan has said he believes Warren simply needs "to get in great shape" and that the Broncos' off-season program will play a key role in whether it was a good deal to surrender a fourth-round pick in the April 23-24 draft for the 26-year-old.

DE Ebenezer Ekuban

The Broncos' trade for Ekuban was formally completed Wednesday when Denver running back Reuben Droughns passed his physical at Cleveland.

And Ekuban, recovering from knee surgery and a shoulder injury, also is not yet at full speed. He was cleared Wednesday by the Broncos medical staff, thus completing the trade, but he also underwent surgery in 2001 to repair a herniated disc in his back.

He did lead the Browns in sacks last season with eight, but four of the six personnel executives contacted by the News considered him a "plateau" player.

That means he already has reached his developmental peak and he had leveled off the past two seasons. Some of that might stem from the fact Ekuban, a native of Ghana, was late coming to football and doesn't play as instinctively as some who grew up playing the sport.

He did not play football until he was a junior in high school and played tight end at the University of North Carolina for two years before moving to defense.

The evaluators were universal in their belief Ekuban needs more power at the point of attack.

DT Michael Myers

He was added to the deal for Droughns as injury insurance for the Broncos in case Ekuban needed more time to recover.

Considering Myers, a former All-Southeastern Conference selection at Alabama, is scheduled to earn $667,000 this season, the personnel executives believe he might be the best pure value among the four players.

The Broncos added a year to the one Myers had left on his deal with the Browns to make it even more salary-cap friendly.

The 300-pound Myers has played some defensive end in his career. Browns coach Romeo Crennel was going to play Myers at end in Cleveland's 3-4 look, so the Broncos could do the same when they implement the scheme as part of their nickel package.

Shanahan believes quality defensive linemen have become some of the more difficult players to find, saying, "It's hard to find really a great defensive lineman, because they've got to be able to play the run, play the pass, (be) great against the run, great rushing the passer.

"It's hard to get a guy who can do both."

The Broncos are hoping they have done just that by doing their shopping in one place.