Cuts are coming

[Clockwork Orange]

http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_4234949

The Broncos' coaching staff will spend the next eight days making final tweaks to a roster that appears to be one of the deepest in the NFL and that was only one game from the Super Bowl last season.

There are few openings available and there could be a few surprise cuts, unlike recent years. The final pieces of the 53-man roster likely will come down to how many players Denver wants to keep at talent-heavy positions such as wide receiver, defensive back and running back.

"We like what we have," coach Mike Shanahan said as the Broncos prepare for their final two preseason games - Sunday against Houston at Invesco Field at Mile High and Thursday at Arizona. "There are always tough decisions, and the next two games will help us make those decisions."

The Broncos must trim 12 players from their 87-man roster by Tuesday, the league's first mandatory cut-down day. All NFL rosters must be cut to 53 players by Sept. 2.

"We think we have a very strong, deep team," Denver general manager Ted Sundquist said. "But those final cuts are always tough to determine."

Quarterback

Shanahan said early in training camp he would like to keep three quarterbacks on the roster, but that is a bit of a luxury in Denver, where the team has kept just two the past two seasons. Former Colorado State star Bradlee Van Pelt may be on the bubble with first-round pick Jay Cutler entrenched behind starter Jake Plummer.

If the Broncos want to keep an extra player at wide receiver or in the secondary, Van Pelt could be in danger. But if Plummer gets injured and an emergency backup is needed for Cutler, the Broncos could be in a pinch. If cut, Van Pelt could be picked up elsewhere, possibly by Houston or Oakland.

"We'll see what happens," Van Pelt said. "They've kept two quarterbacks before. It's up to me to make them keep three."

Running back

Five tailbacks - first-stringer Mike Bell and Tatum Bell, Ron Dayne, Cedric Cobbs and Damien Nash - may have done enough to make the team. But with Cecil Sapp and Kyle Johnson likely filling fullback roles, one or two tailbacks will have to go.

With a deep pool of wide receivers, it's unlikely the team will keep six running backs. Dayne, Cobbs and Nash may be playing for one spot. Dayne, who got a decent signing bonus to re-sign with Denver, has fallen from No. 1 at the start of training camp to being on the bubble. Out 12 days with turf toe, Dayne must play well in the final two preseason games.

Cobbs, who has played well in the preseason, appears to be the favorite to be the No. 3 back right now. Nash has been good, too, and is out of eligibility for the practice squad. Don't be surprised if Denver discusses trade possibilities for one of these backs with a team in need, such as Indianapolis or Miami.

Wide receiver

A weak position for Denver in recent seasons has become a position of depth. Expect fourth- round pick Brandon Marshall to emerge as the Broncos' No. 3 receiver. Competitors for the final three spots include veterans David Kircus, Darius Watts, Todd Devoe, David Terrell and Charlie Adams, and undrafted rookie Brian Clark.

Kircus (also a kick returner), Watts and Devoe are the leading candidates for the final two spots. Terrell can make a late push if he finishes the preseason well. Clark, an intriguing player, could muddy the situation with a strong finish. This is another position where Denver could pursue trades because of a surplus of talent. Watch for former assistant and new Houston coach Gary Kubiak to consider wide receivers cut by the Broncos.

Tight end

Another loaded position behind veteran starter Stephen Alexander and rookie standout Tony Scheffler.

Nate Jackson, a coaching staff favorite, has developed nicely and has great hands. Chad Mustard is a great blocker and a line-of-scrimmage player who can be valuable in the blocking game. He could fill the spot Dwayne Carswell once did. Mustard could have an edge because the Broncos are deep in receivers, but can always use the blocking. But Denver could find a way to keep both Mustard and Jackson.

Offensive line

Like at the quarterback position, the Broncos may cut to a small number because of depth elsewhere. Denver kept seven offensive linemen at times last season, but may want to keep eight considering its youthful influx. Rookie Chris Kuper and second-year pro Chris Myers are sure to be backups, but both may be starters of the future.

Sixth-round pick Greg Eslinger is on the bubble. The Broncos like him but they may not have room to keep him. Carswell and Cornell Green are veterans who also may be caught in a numbers game. If veteran Adam Meadows, attempting a comeback after missing the past two seasons, makes the team, Carswell and Green may be looking for work elsewhere.

Defensive line

Denver probably will keep nine defensive linemen.

One surprise player who could find himself on the 53- man roster is undrafted rookie Antwon Burton. The Temple product has been a camp standout. If Burton makes the team, it could be tough for former Browns player Amon Gordon.

It will be interesting to see what happens at defensive end. With veteran Kenard Lang and fourth-rounder Elvis Dumervil, who also plays tackle, assured of spots, veteran Patrick Chukwurah, John Engelberger, Khaleed Vaughn and Corey Jackson are working for one spot. Don't be surprised if Chukwurah emerges. He has pass-rushing skills, can switch back to linebacker in a pinch and stands out on special teams.

Linebacker

There will likely be three backups here. The talented and versatile Nate Webster is a lock, and Louis Green has been outstanding as well. Undrafted rookie Cameron Vaughn has looked good, but special teams captain Keith Burns figures to take a spot.

Secondary

There likely will be 10 defensive backs on this team. It's a good, young group. Watch for Denver to keep five cornerbacks and five safeties.

The emerging Curome Cox is able to play both spots and is a fine player. Denver is deep at safety. Veteran Sam Brandon can start and play well if there is an injury and Hamza Abdullah is a big hitter with a solid future. If the Broncos keep five cornerbacks, it could come down to Roc Alexander and Jeff Shoate.

Kicking game

Easy. Jason Elam is your place-kicker. Paul Ernster, unless he implodes Sunday, will be the punter and kickoff man while Todd Sauerbrun serves a four-game NFL suspension for violating the substance abuse policy. This leaves veteran Micah Knorr on the outside.

Mike Leach will be the long snapper and can also be an emergency tight end. If Ernster makes the team and has a good first four games, the Broncos could be in position to move on without Sauerbrun, but he is a major weapon and Ernster would have to be outstanding.

Bubble trouble

The Denver Post's Bill Williamson projects several veteran players on the bubble to be cut by the Broncos in the next eight days:

Dwayne Carswell

Position: OL

Season with team: 13th

The prediction: A favorite of the Denver coaching staff, but there is a lot of young talent on the offensive line.

Ron Dayne

Position: RB

Season with team: Second

The prediction: 1999 Heisman Trophy winner probably safe, but Cedric Cobbs and Damien Nash have been impressive.

Cornell Green

Position: OT

Season with team: Third

The prediction: If newcomer Adam Meadows makes the team, Green could be in trouble.

David Terrell

Position: WR

Season with team: Second

The prediction: Former first-round draft pick needs to make impression in Denver's next two preseason games.

Bradlee Van Pelt

Position: QB

Season with team: Third

The prediction: If there is a logjam elsewhere on their roster, Broncos may go with just two quarterbacks.

[Crushaholic]

With the depth at WR, I'm not sure the Broncos WILL keep 3 QBs. The thing that stood out in this article is the praise for Antwon Burton. That would be cool to have TWO new UDFAs excel this season...:thumbsup:

[watermock]

Our WR corps is seriously depleted with the absence of Ms. Lilly. What will we do, what will we do....

[24champ]

Our WR corps is sriously depleted with the absence of Ms. Lilly.
STFU mock.

[watermock]

Shoat is Thoast.

[watermock]

STFU mock.

It was sarcasm dumbass. I thought you had a fundamental education. I was wrong.

[Crushaholic]

Shoat is Thoast.

Shoate could EASILY be among the first cuts. I don't remember seeing anyone say that he did ANYTHING of noteworthiness in camp...

[Gcver2ver3]

they made no mention of hixon at WR.....

i know he's been hurt but i want to know what he can do esp at kick returning...

[BroncoInferno]

Wide receiver

A weak position for Denver in recent seasons has become a position of depth. Expect fourth- round pick Brandon Marshall to emerge as the Broncos' No. 3 receiver. Competitors for the final three spots include veterans David Kircus, Darius Watts, Todd Devoe, David Terrell and Charlie Adams, and undrafted rookie Brian Clark.

Kircus (also a kick returner), Watts and Devoe are the leading candidates for the final two spots. Terrell can make a late push if he finishes the preseason well. Clark, an intriguing player, could muddy the situation with a strong finish. This is another position where Denver could pursue trades because of a surplus of talent. Watch for former assistant and new Houston coach Gary Kubiak to consider wide receivers cut by the Broncos.


Hmm. We keep hearing different things on this. I think the #3 will be Watts based on Shanny sitting him out against Detroit because "we already know what he can do", plus the Scouts, Inc. article that quoted a team source about how he'd been the "most outstanding wide receiver in camp", and that being the reason Denver did not mind letting Lelie go. I mean, sitting him out against Detroit (and Shanny's comments relative to that) was a pretty bold statement to me, but I guess we'll see.

[BroncoInferno]

Hmm. We keep hearing different things on this. I think the #3 will be Watts based on Shanny sitting him out against Detroit because "we already know what he can do", plus the Scouts, Inc. article that quoted a team source about how he'd been the "most outstanding wide receiver in camp", and that being the reason Denver did not mind letting Lelie go. I mean, sitting him out against Detroit (and Shanny's comments relative to that) was a pretty bold statement to me, but I guess we'll see.

I wonder if the author of the article was unaware of Shanny's pregame comments on Watts and misinterpreted his inactivity as a bad sign? This article makes it sound like he is on the bubble.

[Dedhed]

Here's my 53 man roster

QB
1-Plummer
2-Cutler
No room for Bradlee Given the depth at other positions.

RB
3-Bell
4-Bell
5-Cobbs
6-Sapp
7-Johnson
I can see Nash in here somewhere if Sapp proves he is healthy. Johnson would be odd man out.

OL
8-Nalen
9-Hamilton
10-Lepsis
11-Carlisle
12-Foster
13-Meadows
14-Kuper
15-Myers
Not many surprises here. Eslinger to PS.

TE
16-Scheffler
17-Alexander
18-Jackson
19-Mustard
20-Leach
5 TEs yet again.

WR
21-Walker
22-Marshall
23-Watts
24-Kircus
25-Devoe
26-Smith
Terrell is gone. Devoe has made mistakes in camp, but still has upside and playmaking ability. Kircus has made it impssible for the coaches to cut him. Watts and Marshall will be the real battle for #3 though. Clark to PS.

S
27-Ferguson
28-Cox
29-Abdullah
30-Brandon
31-Lynch
This is all a given as far as I can tell.

CB
32-Williams
33-Foxworth
34-Paymah
35-Alexander
36-Bailey
Shoate is gone.
LB
37-Gold
38-Willaims
39-Vaughn
40-Green
41-Webster
42-Wilson
Tried to figure out a way to keep Burns, but Green/Webster/Vaughn have been too good to keep the old man around. He'll be coaching though. I think Webster is gone if they do keep Burns.

DL
43-Myers
44-Brown
45-Ekuban
46-Dumervil
47-Veal
48-Lang
49-Chukwurah
50-Burton
51-Warren
Burton is a big question mark here. I picked him because he's undrafted, and I think Shanahan likes guys like that. He could very well be replaced by Gordon, Save, or someone we pick up after cutdowns.

K
52-Elam
53-Ernster

Here's to hoping that Ernster proves to be a stud and Sauer can go drink ephedra shakes on the beach for the rest of his life.

I'm sure I've made a terrible omission somewhere, and I'm sure someone will point it out. I think we have a very good squad this year. Loads more depth than a year ago.

[Bizzle]

I hope my adoptee makes it!

I would also like to see Brian Clark make the team over Devoe because he brings more to the ST unit as a kick returner. Plus Clark was praised by the likes of Champ, that's got to count for something.

I think Burns makes it over Vaughn, who will go to the PS. But how crazy would it be for us to have 4, count em', 4 UDFA make the 53 man roster (M. Bell, Burton, Clark, Vaughn).

Shanny and Sundquist are friggin out of this world when it comes to finding talent.

[Hotrod]

This is certainly one of the hardest years I can remember. The key is how many QBs and someone told me we get some kind of roster exemption for sourboy??? That opens one spot atleast until after the bye week.

Not sure how I feel about the QB spot as next year lingers in the air we will need a backup if they go with Jay Cut....tuff tuff decission

Burns is another interesting problem.....I think he sticks he means ALOT to ST coverage teams. Then again hes getting up there...

WR's Kircus & Watts stick along with Marshall & prolly Devoe

Dayne needs to go IMO hes done finished over that prolly means Im wrong and he will stick Ha!

Surprise atleast to alot on this board is Roc sticks.

[BroncoInferno]

I hope my adoptee makes it!

I would also like to see Brian Clark make the team over Devoe because he brings more to the ST unit as a kick returner. Plus Clark was praised by the likes of Champ, that's got to count for something.

I think Burns makes it over Vaughn, who will go to the PS. But how crazy would it be for us to have 4, count em', 4 UDFA make the 53 man roster (M. Bell, Burton, Clark, Vaughn).

Shanny and Sundquist are friggin out of this world when it comes to finding talent.

We could potentially have three undrafted rookies make the final roster, in addition to the studs we actually drafted. I'm starting to wonder if Shanny and Sundquist did not have a Robert Johnson-esque meeting at the crossroads with the Devil.

[KipCorrington25]

There will always be a curve ball in there, who had Veal making the team last year for example?

[Bronco_Beerslug]

I wonder if the author of the article was unaware of Shanny's pregame comments on Watts and misinterpreted his inactivity as a bad sign? This article makes it sound like he is on the bubble.
Watts was hurting (bruised his good, er, bad hand).

[BroncoInferno]

Watts was hurting (bruised his good, er, bad hand).

Shanny said it was because "we already know what he can do". Where did you get your info?

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Shanny said it was because "we already know what he can do". Where did you get your info?
Watching the Detroit game.

[STBumpkin]

Here's my 53 man roster

QB
1-Plummer
2-Cutler
No room for Bradlee Given the depth at other positions.

RB
3-Bell
4-Bell
5-Cobbs
6-Sapp
7-Johnson
I can see Nash in here somewhere if Sapp proves he is healthy. Johnson would be odd man out.

OL
8-Nalen
9-Hamilton
10-Lepsis
11-Carlisle
12-Foster
13-Meadows
14-Kuper
15-Myers
Not many surprises here. Eslinger to PS.

TE
16-Scheffler
17-Alexander
18-Jackson
19-Mustard
20-Leach
5 TEs yet again.

WR
21-Walker
22-Marshall
23-Watts
24-Kircus
25-Devoe
26-Smith
Terrell is gone. Devoe has made mistakes in camp, but still has upside and playmaking ability. Kircus has made it impssible for the coaches to cut him. Watts and Marshall will be the real battle for #3 though. Clark to PS.

S
27-Ferguson
28-Cox
29-Abdullah
30-Brandon
31-Lynch
This is all a given as far as I can tell.

CB
32-Williams
33-Foxworth
34-Paymah
35-Alexander
36-Bailey
Shoate is gone.
LB
37-Gold
38-Willaims
39-Vaughn
40-Green
41-Webster
42-Wilson
Tried to figure out a way to keep Burns, but Green/Webster/Vaughn have been too good to keep the old man around. He'll be coaching though. I think Webster is gone if they do keep Burns.

DL
43-Myers
44-Brown
45-Ekuban
46-Dumervil
47-Veal
48-Lang
49-Chukwurah
50-Burton
51-Warren
Burton is a big question mark here. I picked him because he's undrafted, and I think Shanahan likes guys like that. He could very well be replaced by Gordon, Save, or someone we pick up after cutdowns.

K
52-Elam
53-Ernster

Here's to hoping that Ernster proves to be a stud and Sauer can go drink ephedra shakes on the beach for the rest of his life.

I'm sure I've made a terrible omission somewhere, and I'm sure someone will point it out. I think we have a very good squad this year. Loads more depth than a year ago.

I agree 100% with this roster.

[BroncoInferno]

Watching the Detroit game.

??? Sorry, I am a little confused. Before the Detroit game Shanny said the Watts probably wouldn't play unless there was an injury because "we already know what he can do" and wanted to get a look at the other guys. I know he got in for a bit in the 4th...are you saying he injured his hand in the brief appearance?

[55CrushEm]

LB
37-Gold
38-Willaims
39-Vaughn
40-Green
41-Webster
42-Wilson
Tried to figure out a way to keep Burns, but Green/Webster/Vaughn have been too good to keep the old man around. He'll be coaching though. I think Webster is gone if they do keep Burns.

I read somewhere that Webster is way too talented....and will almost surely make the roster. So your theory that if they keep Burns, then Webster will go....will not hold up, IMO. It would have to be Green or Vaughn that will go.....

A week ago, I would've said that Burns is a lock to make it for his ST leadership.....now I'm not so sure. So I just might agree with you, in that he WON'T make the cut.

[Hotrod]

??? Sorry, I am a little confused. Before the Detroit game Shanny said the Watts probably wouldn't play unless there was an injury because "we already know what he can do" and wanted to get a look at the other guys. I know he got in for a bit in the 4th...are you saying he injured his hand in the brief appearance?

Yep thats exactly what happened.

[MechanicalBull]

It did seem in the Detroit game that Watts was holding his hand a bit, but before the Tenn. game Shanny or someone said Watts won't play cause we know what we he can do and wanted to give others time to show what they can do and compete for a spot.

[Broncoman13]

Shanny said it was because "we already know what he can do". Where did you get your info?


Slug is a Watts hater. Don't pay him any attention when it comes to Darius.

Darius will be the #3. However, I think you'll see plenty of Brandon Marshall as well. We're in a situation that allows for us to use different players to dictate the match-ups. Marshall and Walker are great redzone guys. I wouldn't expect to see Darius get many (if any) TD's while in the redzone. If he scores, it will be from beyong 20 yards.

[BroncoInferno]

Yep thats exactly what happened.

Hmm, had not heard that. Was this just something you observed (i.e. Watts shaking or holding his hand in pain) or is there written source some where ont his? I'm just curious about the severity as I haven't heard anything on this till now.

[55CrushEm]

Yep thats exactly what happened.
Yep....someone cracked his claw.

[BroncoInferno]

It did seem in the Detroit game that Watts was holding his hand a bit, but before the Tenn. game Shanny or someone said Watts won't play cause we know what we he can do and wanted to give others time to show what they can do and compete for a spot.

Damn, I was thinking of the Tenn game while I was talking about Detroit. I had heard the hand-holding stuff from that game. Sorry, carry on ;D

[Hotrod]

Hmm, had not heard that. Was this just something you observed (i.e. Watts shaking or holding his hand in pain) or is there written source some where ont his? I'm just curious about the severity as I haven't heard anything on this till now.

Hmmm Im confused I was talking about what you were saying about him not playing his claw is fine far as I know.

[BroncoInferno]

Slug is a Watts hater. Don't pay him any attention when it comes to Darius.

Darius will be the #3. However, I think you'll see plenty of Brandon Marshall as well. We're in a situation that allows for us to use different players to dictate the match-ups. Marshall and Walker are great redzone guys. I wouldn't expect to see Darius get many (if any) TD's while in the redzone. If he scores, it will be from beyong 20 yards.

That's kind of what I'm expecting as well.

[BroncoInferno]

Hmmm Im confused I was talking about what you were saying about him not playing his claw is fine far as I know.

LOL Sorry I confused myself. When I was talking about the Detroit game I meant the Tenn game, then I thought you were agreeing with the 'he hurt his hand part'. Nevermind, sorry Ha!

[Hotrod]

LOL now my head hurts either way the claw has no major injury and will be #3 to start the season. Marshall very well may take that way at some point.

Others on this thread make some great points the depth sould create personel packages based on field position/down&distance etc.......to the SB and beyond.

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Slug is a Watts hater. Don't pay him any attention when it comes to Darius.

Darius will be the #3. However, I think you'll see plenty of Brandon Marshall as well. We're in a situation that allows for us to use different players to dictate the match-ups. Marshall and Walker are great redzone guys. I wouldn't expect to see Darius get many (if any) TD's while in the redzone. If he scores, it will be from beyong 20 yards. No, just don't have any confidence in him catching the ball in real games, I've seen this preseason act before, twice. I'm hoping he has somehow managed to get feeling back in his hand and somehow can start catching the ball now.

But there will be games were we activate only 5 WRs this year. Kircus has a good chance because of his return skills to be one of those guys. Marshall is a badly needed red zone threat.

[dbfan4life]

Is deep snapping that much of a specialty that we year in and year out waste a roster spot on it? Surely, there has to be someone on the roster who can do this and contribute elsewhere.

[Dedhed]

I read somewhere that Webster is way too talented....and will almost surely make the roster. So your theory that if they keep Burns, then Webster will go....will not hold up, IMO. It would have to be Green or Vaughn that will go.....

A week ago, I would've said that Burns is a lock to make it for his ST leadership.....now I'm not so sure. So I just might agree with you, in that he WON'T make the cut.
You could be right. Webster did get the start in place of the seated Wilson. I was thinking that Green can back up each of the LB positions, but Webster and Vaughn both may be too talented to cut.

[Barry Ramey]

If the Broncos would want another QB at the #3 spot, I don't know I'd want Van Pelt anyway. He just isn't much of a passer and I don't think he'll ever be nothing more than average at best. One guy I'd look at his JT O'Sullivan who has bounced around a bit, been on teams where he's always the #4 QB and looks the same with the Vikes this year and figures to get cut again. He's nothing special and while not as athletic as BVP, I think he's a far better passer than BVP.

[ludo21]

Dedhead, great roster I agree!!

Vaughn and Burnsie will be the only switch id make.

The next 2 games are key to who will be kept.
This is VERY VERY HARD!!!

Good luck shanny, this will be the toughest cuts in YEARS!

[Barry Ramey]

Here's my guess to the final 53, assuming no injuries until the final cuts:

QB - Plummer, Cutler
RB - M. Bell, T. Bell, Cobbs
FB - Johnson, Sapp
WR - R. Smith, Walker, Marshall, Watts, Kircus, Clark
TE - Alexander, Scheffler, Jackson, Mustard, Leach
OL - Lepsis, Hamilton, Nalen, Carlisle, Foster, Green, Myers, Kuper

DL - Lang, Warren, Myers, Ekuban, C. Brown, Veal, Burton, Jackson, Dumervil
LB - Williams, Wilson, Gold, Webster, Vaughn, Green
CB - Bailey, Williams, Foxworth, Paymah, Alexander
S - Lynch, Ferguson, Brandon, Cox, Abdullah

K - Elam
P - Ernster

Practice Squad:

Eslinger, Everett, a QB like Pinegar who might get cut, a DL, and either a RB or LB

Surprise or notable cuts:

Van Pelt - just not a QB in the NFL
Meadows - I don't think he's shown to be healthy and reliable
Nash - not keeping that many RB's
Terrell - just not showing enough, go with the youngster Clark
Carswell - just not enough spots, thanks for helping the team throguh the years
Engelberger - could be close with him or Jackson
Burns - getting old and can't count on no one picking up C. Vaughn if released
Chukwurah - numbers game
PJ Alexander - can't stay healthy
Adams - just doesn't do enough on field
Devoe - Clark gets spot because of return ability

As for Sauerbrun, it'll be interesting to see what they do when he's able to play. Will they cut Ernster? Sauerbrun? Keep both and cut someone else?

[Antilles]

Here's my guess to the final 53, assuming no injuries until the final cuts:

QB - Plummer, Cutler
RB - M. Bell, T. Bell, Cobbs
FB - Johnson, Sapp
WR - R. Smith, Walker, Marshall, Watts, Kircus, Clark
TE - Alexander, Scheffler, Jackson, Mustard, Leach
OL - Lepsis, Hamilton, Nalen, Carlisle, Foster, Green, Myers, Kuper

DL - Lang, Warren, Myers, Ekuban, C. Brown, Veal, Burton, Jackson, Dumervil
LB - Williams, Wilson, Gold, Webster, Vaughn, Green
CB - Bailey, Williams, Foxworth, Paymah, Alexander
S - Lynch, Ferguson, Brandon, Cox, Abdullah

K - Elam
P - Ernster

Practice Squad:

Eslinger, Everett, a QB like Pinegar who might get cut, a DL, and either a RB or LB

Surprise or notable cuts:

Van Pelt - just not a QB in the NFL
Meadows - I don't think he's shown to be healthy and reliable
Nash - not keeping that many RB's
Terrell - just not showing enough, go with the youngster Clark
Carswell - just not enough spots, thanks for helping the team throguh the years
Engelberger - could be close with him or Jackson
Burns - getting old and can't count on no one picking up C. Vaughn if released
Chukwurah - numbers game
PJ Alexander - can't stay healthy
Adams - just doesn't do enough on field
Devoe - Clark gets spot because of return ability

As for Sauerbrun, it'll be interesting to see what they do when he's able to play. Will they cut Ernster? Sauerbrun? Keep both and cut someone else?

Unless Ernster dominates the next few weeks, they'll keep Sourbuns and carry 3 kickers just like they intended to last year. I can't see them carrying 5 TEs though, so I think they'll cut the Mustard. Also think we will see Chukwurah take Burton's spot. Otherwise I'm right with you.

[ward63]

Is deep snapping that much of a specialty that we year in and year out waste a roster spot on it? Surely, there has to be someone on the roster who can do this and contribute elsewhere.

Leach is one of the best long snappers in the NFL and is great in getting down the field and getting to the ball.

[Atlas]

Leach is one of the best long snappers in the NFL and is great in getting down the field and getting to the ball.

i have always bashed the fact that denver carried a guy that does nothing but long snap. i promised i would never do that again after leach recoverd a fumble on a punt last year. that was hustle on his part.

[IHaveALight]

Leach is quit often one of the first few guys to get down the field. That just amazes me since he's the snapper.

[Bladerunner]

Leach is quit often one of the first few guys to get down the field. That just amazes me since he's the snapper.

Leach is a solid contributor on special teams, but Shanahan has lamented the need to carry a long snapper specialist several times in the past. It is one of the reasons we kept only two QB's last year.

I think that we'll keep Leach and let BVP go.

BVP hasn't looked good at all, and I don't mean his passing. Hell, we haven't even gotten to see him throw hardly at all, he's too busy getting sacked or getting called for a delay of game penalty.

I like the guy's spirit, and I don't think he is as incapable as many others in the forum, but he's played really poorly in the two pre-season games. He's probably not even going to get a look this weekend, so it'll have to be the last game that he sell them. I suspect he'll be cut.

[Drek]

Here's who I see with locked down spots.

Offense (19 spots)
QB: Plummer, Cutler
RB: M.Bell, T.Bell
FB: Sapp, Johnson
WR: Smith, Walker, Marshall, Watts, Kircus
TE: Scheffler
OT: Lepsis, Foster
OG: Hamilton, Carlisle, Kuper
C: Nalen, Myers

Defense (20 spots)
DE: Brown, Ekuban, Lang, Dumervil
DT: Warren, Myers, Veal
OLB: Williams, Gold
MLB: Wilson, Webster
CB: Bailey, Williams, Foxworth, Paymah
S: Lynch, Ferguson, Brandon, Cox, Abdullah

STs (3 spots)
K: Elam
P: Earnster/Saurbrun (probably only one P spot all season though, so week 4 we have a cut coming)
LS: Leach

Thats 41 spots taken up, so 11 spots left. Here are our definately needs, and my picks to fill them (7 total):
1 RB (Dayne)
2 TE (Alexander/Jackson)
1 OL (OT) (Green)
1 DE (Chuckwurah)
1 DT (Burton)
1 LB (Green)

That leaves 4 spots open. My breakdown as to who'll get them, most likely to least likely:
1 - Burns, he's the captain of our STs, with all the young guys we'll need a veteran leader. This results in Cameron Vaughn getting a PS assignment (another reason its Burns, we can PS Vaughn).
2 - Meadows/Carswell. I'm betting on Meadows, adding some OL depth. Eslinger is PS'ed.
3 - Roc Alexander. Not necessarily needed since Cox can double duty, but he's nice to have.
4 - Van Pelt. He gets a spot, but he's on the bubble if we need to reclaim any of our PS assignments. He also could get cut if we're impressed by Ernster but not enough to cut Sauerbrun.

Hixon on the IR, C.Vaughn, Clark, Eslinger, and Mustard to the PS. I think we also grab a PS elidgable RB from another team's camp as well, maybe a DL if we like anyone appeals to the staff.

[BroncoBuff]

A good article by Burger Bill ... but he completely failed to point out that:
1) - Hixon to IR
2) - Eslinger to practice squad
3) - Brian Clark to practice squad
4) - Chad Mustard to practice squad

Is Cobbs practice squad eligible?

[BroncoBuff]

Backup O-Line is easy:1) - Chris Myers
2) - Chris Kuper
3) - Adam Meadows -OR- Cornell Green

Eslinger to practice squad .... and a "Dwayne Carswell/Keith Burns Appreciation Day" at Invesco ... both played in BOTH Super Bowls. AFter them, the only Super Bowl Legacies left: NALEN, ROD, ELAM, LEPSIS

[orange 4 life]

Our WR corps is seriously depleted with the absence of Ms. Lilly. What will we do, what will we do....

I was discussing this with a fellow fan here at work today.

we're obviously overstocked with talent at the position, and we're obviously going to cut a couple pretty good players.
that said, not ONE of the players after rod and javon are likely to be as productive as lelie wouldve been.

its over, and its time to move on, but its hard (at least for me) to let go of the vision of plummer dropping back to pass and seeing smith, walker, and lelie all out there at the same time.

cuts will be no doubt more interesting this year than in recent years, and at the end of it all there are going to be some quality players looking for work.

here's to hoping our staff makes the right choices.

[Drek]

A good article by Burger Bill ... but he completely failed to point out that:
1) - Hixon to IR
2) - Eslinger to practice squad
3) - Brian Clark to practice squad
4) - Chad Mustard to practice squad

Is Cobbs practice squad eligible?
No, Cobbs was on the PS last year, apparently Nash has either been on someone's PS or logged enough 53 man roster time to lose PS elidgability as well. Unless we find a nice PS elidgable cut/street FA we won't have an RB on the PS this year.

[BroncoBuff]

You only get ONE year of PS eligibility, eh ?

I didn't know that, I though 2.

[orange 4 life]

A good article by Burger Bill ... but he completely failed to point out that:
1) - Hixon to IR
2) - Eslinger to practice squad
3) - Brian Clark to practice squad
4) - Chad Mustard to practice squad

Is Cobbs practice squad eligible?

unfortunately not, but i dont think it would matter as i doubt he would clear waivers anyway.

as for the superbowl vets (carswell and burns), i can certainly see the demise of house, as we have young guys with upside waiting in the wings. possible future starters.

in burns' case, i would be pretty floored if he's cut.
wilson, gold, and williams are entrenched as starters, and no one in camp is a MUST have player.
sure, youve had guys playing well, but well enough to make you cut your special teams captain?
well enough to make you part ways with a guy who sparks everyone else in the locker room with his heart and enthusiasm?

i doubt it.
i hope not.

special teams are vastly underrated in football, and the loss of sauerbrun is bad enough.
i dont see us compounding it by cutting our best special teams player.
just my .02

jake

[orange 4 life]

A good article by Burger Bill ... but he completely failed to point out that:
1) - Hixon to IR
2) - Eslinger to practice squad
3) - Brian Clark to practice squad
4) - Chad Mustard to practice squad


agreed, and i think all (with the POSSIBLE exception of clark) will clear waivers.

[orange 4 life]

Here's my 53 man roster
.

a deadhead AND a knowledgeable bronco fan!!

what a great combo.
sorry, i just had to point it out as i sit here listening to bobby and ratdog do a fantastic tequila jam > silvio > tequila > silvio > tequila > silvio > iko iko from december of last year.
great stuff.
:peace:

[rovolution]

agreed, and i think all (with the POSSIBLE exception of clark) will clear waivers.

Eslinger wont clear waivers. his only problem was upper body strength. Kubiak has an ancient Flanagan at center, and he would relish the opportunity to grab a top notch zone blocking center alal Eslinger to build his new o-line.

I honestly believe any o-line person we put at risk will promptly be snatched up by Kubiak, who has first claim to waivers.

[orange 4 life]

Eslinger wont clear waivers. his only problem was upper body strength. Kubiak has an ancient Flanagan at center, and he would relish the opportunity to grab a top notch zone blocking center alal Eslinger to build his new o-line.

I honestly believe any o-line person we put at risk will promptly be snatched up by Kubiak, who has first claim to waivers.

good point

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

I believe it was Mediator that said on another thread that the new CBA allowed a player to be on the PS for three calendar years. If that is the case Cobbs would be eligible because he has not been on the 53 man squad for 8 games.

I think there is a very good chance Eslinger could clear waivers. He has really been over manned during the preseason. Remember he also had the dislocated elbow early in camp. He is a prime candidate for a wink wink IR assignment if the coaches don't think he clears waivers. Unless someone else gets hurt, I don't see any chance of him being on teh 53 man roster.

[Drek]

We can always pull Eslinger back from a PS assignment if someone claims him. I think that is where we'll see Van Pelt's roster spot really hang in the balance, if any of our PS guys get claimed and we need to pull them back.

[SoCalBronco]

I believe it was Mediator that said on another thread that the new CBA allowed a player to be on the PS for three calendar years. If that is the case Cobbs would be eligible because he has not been on the 53 man squad for 8 games.

I think there is a very good chance Eslinger could clear waivers. He has really been over manned during the preseason. Remember he also had the dislocated elbow early in camp. He is a prime candidate for a wink wink IR assignment if the coaches don't think he clears waivers. Unless someone else gets hurt, I don't see any chance of him being on teh 53 man roster.

Yep. I'll be shocked if he doesnt get "hurt" in the next two weeks.

:)

[-Slap-]

I read somewhere that Webster is way too talented....and will almost surely make the roster. So your theory that if they keep Burns, then Webster will go....will not hold up, IMO. It would have to be Green or Vaughn that will go.....

A week ago, I would've said that Burns is a lock to make it for his ST leadership.....now I'm not so sure. So I just might agree with you, in that he WON'T make the cut.

Webster, who can play all three spots, and Green will both make the roster. Either one could step in for Gold without any significant dropoff.