Bell running well despite life's turns

[SoCalBronco]

broncos
Bell running well despite life's turns
Speedy Broncos running back has converted his greatest loss into gain
By Mike Klis
Denver Post Staff Writer




1. Tatum Bell - Banged up early in his rookie year, he finished strong, rushing for 123 yards in Game 13 against Miami. A slight favorite to emerge as top running back, but must imporve receiving skills. (Scroll down for candidates 2-5.) (Post / Hyoung Chang)


Football fans from Stillwater, Okla., to Denver know him as Tatum Bell.

It was a name that took some getting used to. For most of his life, the fast, athletic, rambunctious kid from the Dallas suburbs was known as Tatum Jones.

Don't even start with the notion Bell's life may forever change if he manages to beat out Mike Anderson in the training camp competition for the glamorous role of Broncos' No. 1 running back.

Burying his 47-year-old mother, moving in with the father he barely had heard about, hanging out with a younger brother he never had heard about and changing his identity from Tatum Jones to Tatum Bell - all at the age of 14 - will shake up a young man's life.

"It was kind of hard on me at first," Bell said. "But my dad took me under his wing, helped me become a man, picked up where my mom left off."

[SoCalBronco]

When 87 Broncos players snap on their helmets and hustle through top-speed, highly intense, two-a-day workouts today at their Dove Valley training complex, backgrounds won't mean much.

Bell's dual upbringings won't tug on coach Mike Shanahan's heartstrings as he chooses his starting running back before the season opener Sept. 11 at Miami. Then again, Bell's childhood may explain the perspective he brings to the competition.

"I think it's going to be me at the end, but I'm no cocky person," Bell said. "I'm not one to run my mouth because it hasn't been pronounced. If Coach sits me down and says, 'You're the starter,' that's when I'll hold my head up high. But until then, I'm going to keep working and keep trying to push all the other running backs."

For starters, Bell is the backup. Anderson opened camp as the No. 1 running back, and not just as a professional courtesy to veterans. He was going to be the Broncos' starting tailback last season until he tore two groin muscles in the final exhibition game and missed the season. And even if he is about to turn 32, Anderson figures to be the best blocker and short-yardage option among running back candidates who also include Quentin Griffin, Ron Dayne and Maurice Clarett.

"Mike Anderson to me is the guy who has looked the best in camp," quarterback Jake Plummer said. "He has the experience and him back from his injury, good things should happen with him."

[SoCalBronco]

Not that Bell, 24, didn't score some points with the quarterback last season. A rookie holdout a year ago today, Bell eventually signed a $3.715 million contract that included a guaranteed $1.72 million bonus. He then so badly mangled a finger during his first Broncos practice, surgery was required.

In Game 13 on Dec. 12, Bell finally got his chance - and rushed for 123 yards against Miami. Late in that game, though, Bell suffered a separated shoulder and finished the season playing in a harness.

"That showed me a lot," Plummer said. "To see a young kid do that shows me he's tough, willing to give it up for the team."

Shanahan's take on Bell: "I think everybody knows he has the 1,500-yard ability. Because of his speed, he's able to break a touchdown run every time he touches the ball. The question is, can he stay healthy? Can he be a complete back?

"Now you compare that to Mike Anderson, who knows his strengths and weaknesses. He knows defenses. He is an excellent blocker. He does whatever you ask him to do."

"Worst day" ahead

Meaning no disrespect to Anderson and the rest, Bell has dealt with tougher challenges. Tony Bell and Vanessa Jones were dating until Tatum's arrival forced them to make a life decision. Tony said they mutually agreed to go separate ways.

Tatum was still in diapers, 10 months old, and home with Grandma when Mom visited some college friends in Houston for a New Year's Eve celebration. A car accident that night left her paralyzed.

"She was a Jane Doe for a while there,"




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said grandmother Doris. "She didn't have any identification on her. All she had was a piece of paper with a number on it that she put in her pocket. It was my number. The doctor just took a chance and called it."
"When she came out of it, she completely changed her ways. She devoted the rest of the life to the boy," she said.

[SoCalBronco]

Tatum never knew his mom any other way than in a wheelchair. Eventually, an electric wheelchair, much to Tatum's delight. Doris said Tatum often took Mom's wheelchair for a spin in the back alley. It was the thrill of riding vehicles at an early age that later got Tatum in trouble with Dad.

"He instilled some discipline I really didn't have," Tatum said. "Mom didn't really let me get away with stuff, but I was spoiled. My dad was a little more tough love."

Pneumonia eventually claimed Mom's life and began a new world for Tatum. The 10-year anniversary of his mother's death is Aug. 11.

"I broke down, bad," he said. "It was the worst day of my life."

A change of address

His biological father attended the funeral, talked to relatives and, against the wishes of both Tatum and grandma Doris, exercised his legal right to custody and moved his son 30 minutes to DeSoto, Texas.

"I was married; I had a home," Tony Bell said.

Indeed, not only is Tony married to Terry, they had a son T.J., who followed Tatum to Oklahoma State, where he is now a freshman defensive back. Tony continues to draw a good living as a Teamsters city truck driver.

"I just thought I had a better situation to offer him and it was time for me to step up," Tony said.

Tatum was rebellious at first. Of particular concern was his penchant for underage driving. One day, Tony and Terry carpooled to work, leaving the truck in the garage. It rained that day and when the Bells got home, they saw the truck parked safely, showroom dry.

"Only problem was, there were wet tracks rolling into the garage," Tony said. "He and his brother went for a drive, then wiped it dry after they got back."

If only 14-year-olds could think of everything.

"If he was driving, that's because his mother taught him how to drive when he was no more than 12 years old," Doris said.

Tony showed no mercy in punishing his son. Guess what? Every time Tatum returns home, he visits his grandmother and stays with Tony and Terry, whom he has long called "Mom."

Tatum can be anywhere, though, and think of his late mother. Before she died, Vanessa Jones wrote her son a letter, saying she hoped he would fulfill his dream of one day playing in the NFL.

"I've still got that letter," Bell said. "Everything happens for a reason. I'm not happy my mom passed, but it did help me get to know my dad. It kind of worked out because that discipline he put on me helped me. My momma set the groundwork, and my daddy finished it off. I know my momma's happy."

Staff writer Mike Klis can be reached at 303-820-5440 or mklis@denverpost.com.

[SoCalBronco]

I will be very disappointed in Tatum if he cant beat Sarge out.

[Jae]

This one's for mom

[Bronco LB 59]

I will be very disappointed in Tatum if he cant beat Sarge out.

I think Bell will get most of the carries, but the coaches feel confident with Anderson because of his pass blocking and he has more experience in the finer details of the offense such as the blitz pickups. I see a Bell 20-Anderson 10 setup to start the season with Tatum getting more reps as the season progresses. Then again, its still too early to say.

I personally like all five of our running backs and I think its a shame that 1 or 2 will get cut.

[MileHighMania]

I hope Bell proves he is the man... I really would like Denver to have "one" 25 carry RB for the entire season and hopefully the next 2-3 seasons. Granted, I'm not going to be upset if one of the other guys perform, but for some reason I like Bell.

[Florida_Bronco]

The 10 year anniversary of his mom's death is August 11....the day I turn 19, wow.

Well let's hope Tatum has a really great year and a career. He seems like a good guy and got a good head on his shoulders.

[TheReverend]

Anderson started last season as the starter? Funny, I remember Q running with the first team in the hall of fame game and a quote from Shanny saying he wanted Q to have 20-25 carries a game and Anderson to have 10. They must love using the old man to push the younger guys.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Anderson started last season as the starter? Funny, I remember Q running with the first team in the hall of fame game and a quote from Shanny saying he wanted Q to have 20-25 carries a game and Anderson to have 10. They must love using the old man to push the younger guys.

"Mike Anderson to me is the guy who has looked the best in camp," quarterback Jake Plummer said. "He has the experience and him back from his injury, good things should happen with him."

Or Mike is actually the best back in camp so far.

[Kaylore]

"Mike Anderson to me is the guy who has looked the best in camp," quarterback Jake Plummer said. "He has the experience and him back from his injury, good things should happen with him."

Or Mike is actually the best back in camp so far.
He is. But not by a lot.

[scorpio]

Anderson started last season as the starter? Funny, I remember Q running with the first team in the hall of fame game and a quote from Shanny saying he wanted Q to have 20-25 carries a game and Anderson to have 10. They must love using the old man to push the younger guys.

I think the idea last year was to make Anderson look good so we could trade him before the season started. Obviously not a lot of teams are going to bite this year with him coming off a pretty nasty injury.

[TheReverend]

I think our fascination with Bell comes from Portis. We loved Portis' production and break away ability. We look at Bell as a Portis clone. We all wanted to believe last year and at Miami he did NOT disappoint. Now we can only hold our breath until a healthy Tatum Bell takes the field Week One... against Miami again.

[TheReverend]

"Mike Anderson to me is the guy who has looked the best in camp," quarterback Jake Plummer said. "He has the experience and him back from his injury, good things should happen with him."

Or Mike is actually the best back in camp so far.

Two days into camp and you're already buying the "Mike Anderson is our starter" juice. It's a prop to motivate Bell... the back with upside. Dayne makes the team because hes better than Anderson. Clarrett makes the team because hes potentially one of the best in the game.

I hope Anderson continues to do great. If he has a 2,000 yard season, I'll be incredibly happy. I dont see it happening. I don't see him starting. I don't see him hitting the regular season even as #2 on the depth chart.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Two days into camp and you're already buying the "Mike Anderson is our starter" juice. It's a prop to motivate Bell... the back with upside. Dayne makes the team because hes better than Anderson. Clarrett makes the team because hes potentially one of the best in the game.

I hope Anderson continues to do great. If he has a 2,000 yard season, I'll be incredibly happy. I dont see it happening. I don't see him starting. I don't see him hitting the regular season even as #2 on the depth chart.

Your reading comprehension is amazing! Jake said he's the best back in camp so far, not some old broken down back you want so desperately to believe.
Time to buck up and face facts, Mike will be at LEAST the second best back on the team whether you like it or not.

[SoCalBronco]

Your reading comprehension is amazing! Jake said he's the best back in camp so far, not some old broken down back you want so desperately to believe.
Time to buck up and face facts, Mike will be at LEAST the second best back on the team whether you like it or not.

I dont doubt that he has looked the best so far, but to me that is more of a sign of disappointment in Tatum than anything else. I cannot get excited about Mike. Mike isnt simply going to regain the burst that wasnt there even before the injury. Mike isnt suddenly going to find the vision that hasnt been there for years. I dont dispute, based on the reports so far, that he is outperforming Tatum, but to me, this development is a negative one. I am disappointed in Tatum so far. Its not asking alot to beat out Mike. I am very concerned about the RB play right now.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

I dont doubt that he has looked the best so far, but to me that is more of a sign of disappointment in Tatum than anything else. I cannot get excited about Mike. Mike isnt simply going to regain the burst that wasnt there even before the injury. Mike isnt suddenly going to find the vision that hasnt been there for years. I dont dispute, based on the reports so far, that he is outperforming Tatum, but to me, this development is a negative one. I am disappointed in Tatum so far. Its not asking alot to beat out Mike. I am very concerned about the RB play right now.

This is all conjecture on your part. I'll take the word of people who actually watching them all perform live right now. Having the heart of lion is what makes some athletes special.

[SoCalBronco]

Tatum has all the talent in the world. He should be dominating Mike. This doesnt mean he should be dominating our defense, but he should at the very least be clearly outperforming Mike. Come on Tatum, step it up, we know you have the talent to be great.

[SoCalBronco]

This is all conjecture on your part. I'll take the word of people who actually watching them all perform live right now. Having the heart of lion is what makes some athletes special.

Im not sure what your trying to say. I already admitted that i accept the reports from the people who are actually watching them perform, that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I dont know what you mean by conjecture. Its not reasonably in dispute that Mike isnt a very good RB even when he is on the field. He has never played up to his 2000 level in several years even when he has been on the field. You will find almost no one who disputes this. I am simply saying if Mike wins the job, its not a positive development. I am not saying Tatum deserves to win the job even if Mike outperforms him. I do not dispute any of the on field reports that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I am simply saying it is a negative development if Tatum cannot even beat out Mike.

[TheReverend]

Im not sure what your trying to say. I already admitted that i accept the reports from the people who are actually watching them perform, that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I dont know what you mean by conjecture. Its not reasonably in dispute that Mike isnt a very good RB even when he is on the field. He has never played up to his 2000 level in several years even when he has been on the field. You will find almost no one who disputes this. I am simply saying if Mike wins the job, its not a positive development. I am not saying Tatum deserves to win the job even if Mike outperforms him. I do not dispute any of the on field reports that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I am simply saying it is a negative development if Tatum cannot even beat out Mike.

What are the odds that when I finally get back up it comes from you? I need to rep some people so I can rep you and Kaylore again.

Anderson wont win the job and wont win #2 either. Kaylore said Dayne played the best yesterday... just because Anderson can push his way into a small hole a couple times a day doesnt make him good. Our D has been kicking the **** out of all of them, which is great news.

I dont even think the FO takes Anderson seriously. I think this is a game of chase the white rabbit to motivate the guys with real upside. Needless to say Ill be watching the preseason VERY closely...

2005 RB depth chart:
1. Bell
2. Dayne
3. Clarrett

[Sodak]

This all makes me wonder what Olandis Gary is up to...

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Im not sure what your trying to say. I already admitted that i accept the reports from the people who are actually watching them perform, that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I dont know what you mean by conjecture. Its not reasonably in dispute that Mike isnt a very good RB even when he is on the field. He has never played up to his 2000 level in several years even when he has been on the field. You will find almost no one who disputes this. I am simply saying if Mike wins the job, its not a positive development. I am not saying Tatum deserves to win the job even if Mike outperforms him. I do not dispute any of the on field reports that Mike is doing better than Tatum. I am simply saying it is a negative development if Tatum cannot even beat out Mike.
What I'm saying is how do you know that he can't run anymore? How do you know he lost his vision? A lot people forget that he was asked to play a different position after his great year at halfback. Ask anyone in Broncoland how good Mike has looked the last two years when he was told he could compete for the RB job.
Do you actually think the Broncos would let him play RB if he couldn't run or lacked vision?

[TheReverend]

Do you actually think the Broncos would let him play RB if he couldn't run or lacked vision?

Do you actually think the Broncos are going to let him play RB?

[SoCalBronco]

What I'm saying is how do you know that he can't run anymore? How do you know he lost his vision? A lot people forget that he was asked to play a different position after his great year at halfback. Ask anyone in Broncoland how good Mike has looked the last two years when he was told he could compete for the RB job.
Do you actually think the Broncos would let him play RB if he couldn't run or lacked vision?

With regard to the loss of vision, i can tell that, regarding past games, from the oppurtunities he has had to run the football. He runs into the backs of lineman. Doesnt really find the holes. Has no speed burst. He did, in fairness to Mike, show some good things in the preseason last year but that was against Seattle's scrubs.

You brought up an interesting point re: maybe he hasnt been as good running it because he has been in FB mode. Okay, that sounds reasonable but how could Rueben shift seamlessly from FB to RB and be effective for a good part of the season if there was really a big shift that needed to be made?

With regard to your last point about the Broncos letting people play who cant run the ball....well i would refer you to last year when we had Q as our uncontested starter and he started several games even though it was quickly apparent that after the KC game, he couldnt run the football effectively and was then benched in favor of Rueben in the Carolina game.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Do you actually think the Broncos are going to let him play RB?

He'll play a lot more than your hero Dayne will.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v37/Bocawaves/ron.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v37/Bocawaves/mike.jpg

[TheReverend]

He'll play a lot more than your hero Dayne will.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v37/Bocawaves/ron.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v37/Bocawaves/mike.jpg

Wow... I dont even like Dayne. Im a PSU fan... I hate the Badgers.

Give it up, dude. We disagree... nothing against you. In September we can bring this whole argument back up and see who was right. It's either Tatum backed up by Dayne/Clarrett, or your way. Whatever. Ill talk to you then.

[orange crusher]

One thing I found interesting about the article was that it said Mike Anderson was going to be the starter last year. I think the common belief was that they were auditioning him for a trade in the preseason game he got injured. Is it possible Shanny was giving him a chance to win the starting job? He did look better than Q last preseason.

I for one still believe Mike can do the things he did his rookie season. I think Tatum has loads of ability but is going to have to be productive to win the job - talent alone isn't going to do it for the boss. Tatum should be the starter going into the regular season if he plays to his potential, but if he doesn't I won't be a bit surprised to see Shanny give Mike the start on opening day. Clarett isn't ready after a two year absence from the game and I don't believe Dayne will beat out Mike either. Q to me is nothing more than a change of pace or artificial turf back.