Michael Bush Questions (What if...)

[Steve Prefontaine]

Let’s say Michael Bush had not been injured this year and posted similar stats to his junior year (let’s say 1,300 yards and 20+ TDs). Where would he be drafted this year? Would you like the Broncos to take him with the 21st pick?

For the people that are down on Bush, I’m curious if you are turned off because of his injury, because you think he is overrated, or because you think he just doesn’t fit the Broncos’ system.

[Florida_Bronco]

Had he not been injured, I believe he would have surpassed Adrian Peterson as the top running back prospect in this class. To quote SoCal, Bush is "Jerome Bettis with speed."

I'd love for the Broncos to take Michael Bush, even if they move up in the 2nd round to get him.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

I have been on his band wagon for two years. (actually I think I am the one who calls him Bettis with speed ;) ) It is just a broken leg. It will heal fine. Sapp also has a broken leg and everyone expects him to be fine by camp. Most of the folk here who bad mouth him have never seen him play. They just become experts by looking at a youtube clip or two.

[Guessed]

Had he not been injured, I believe he would have surpassed Adrian Peterson as the top running back prospect in this class. To quote SoCal, Bush is "Jerome Bettis with speed."

I'd love for the Broncos to take Michael Bush, even if they move up in the 2nd round to get him.

That might be what's behind the rumors of the Broncos sending Plummer to the Texans for a swap of 2nds and 3rds or a swap of 2nds and a 4rth rounder coming from the Texans.

[Elway777]

That might be what's behind the rumors of the Broncos sending Plummer to the Texans for a swap of 2nds and 3rds or a swap of 2nds and a 4rth rounder coming from the Texans. I would love to see that happen.Then maybe trade our first 3 round pick for Dre Bly and Marcus Bell.

[Rascal]

If our third could get both Dre Bly and Marcus Bell I'd be all over that.

In the first get the best d-lineman or safety available.

And in FA get either Kerney or KGB.

I'd be happy with that offseason:

[Garcia Bronco]

Let’s say Michael Bush had not been injured this year and posted similar stats to his junior year (let’s say 1,300 yards and 20+ TDs). Where would he be drafted this year? Would you like the Broncos to take him with the 21st pick?

For the people that are down on Bush, I’m curious if you are turned off because of his injury, because you think he is overrated, or because you think he just doesn’t fit the Broncos’ system.


I just don't buy into the hype. He's injury prone, though not as bad as Peterson. He plays at a school in a weak conference. As far as the "system", anything would be better than Fum-Bell. I think Mike Bell is the answer though. I hope he is training right now.

[Florida_Bronco]

I just don't buy into the hype. He's injury prone, though not as bad as Peterson. He plays at a school in a weak conference. As far as the "system", anything would be better than Fum-Bell. I think Mike Bell is the answer though. I hope he is training right now.

I disagree. The term "injury prone" is thrown around WAY too much around here. Bush has only had 1 significant injury to my knowledge, and it's not something that he should have any trouble coming back from.

[Requiem]

The most ridiculous things I've heard in regards to Bush are this. . .

"He's too big for our system."

"He isn't fast."

"He doesn't have what it takes."

Wrong on all three accounts. Bush's patience, vision and speed for his size all work well here. He's our type of cut and go runner too. Not to mention, he can catch.

[Garcia Bronco]

I disagree. The term "injury prone" is thrown around WAY too much around here. Bush has only had 1 significant injury to my knowledge, and it's not something that he should have any trouble coming back from.

Didn't he rip his ACL two seasons ago?

[Rascal]

Didn't he rip his ACL two seasons ago?

There is no reference to that on his bio.

http://uoflsports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/bush_michael00.html

[Inkana7]

Didn't he rip his ACL two seasons ago?
Not that I know of. And if he did, then it really didn't effect his play, because he had monster Junior season with 23 TDs.

[yerner]

Who's to say he doesnt get drafted in the 1st? He was def. considered 1st round talent prior to the injury. Bush's draft position is yet to be determined. It all depends on his combine workouts, which he is supposedly ready for. If he comes out and runs well, catches well and shows a burst there is no doubt he'll shoot up the boards. Possibly warranting 1st round consideration.

[That One Guy]

I thought there was supposed to be no way he was ready for the combine? Is he actually gonna make a showing?

[Drek]

Didn't he rip his ACL two seasons ago?

ESPN said he had a tweaked ankle, didn't miss more than a few games from it.

I like Bush's talent level but he doesn't run as hard as a guy his size should. I think its largely a product of the offense he was in though, where he did a lot of work catching the ball.

I don't like him at #21, don't think he's very good value there at this point, but if he at least can work out pre-draft and we could work a trade up in the 2nd I'd be cool with it. Just make sure we keep Mike Bell and preferably sign a veteran in case Bush takes longer than expected to get healthy.

[azbroncfan]

Ron Dayne part 2

[Hercules Rockefeller]

I just want a list of the people here who have bitched about Shanahan drafting injured players in the past, only to want Shanahan take this guy.

[yerner]

I thought I read a Kiper article saying Bush should be ready. But now that you question it, I'll try to find out.

[yerner]

http://cbs.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/9918187/rss






Bush said he's heard from NFL personnel that he could go sometime between the first and third rounds. He is planning to spend the next few months rehabbing the leg in Arizona in hopes of being able to run for NFL scouts prior to April's draft.
"If I can't run in March, maybe I fall to the third," Bush said. "That is a chance I am willing to take."

[yerner]

Looks like the combine is out, but he is trying to run sometime before the draft. Still, I say if he runs well he jumps up the board.

[DBroncos4life]

I just want a list of the people here who have b****ed about Shanahan drafting injured players in the past, only to want Shanahan take this guy.

I think he will be ready to play this year unlike the others (Foster, MiddleBust, and Hixon).

[elsid13]

I think he nice player, I'm just not real excited about this guy. I seen him play a number of times and just some be something missing. I rather wait a year and try to pick up Rice from Rutgers. Rice has it and looks to be a better pro then college player.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

I think he will be ready to play this year unlike the others (Foster, MiddleBust, and Hixon).

Foster and Middlebrooks were both ready to go when their rookie seasons started.

But that's not my point. My point is only that some here are changing their stance on the injured player complaints because Bush is a name guy that some wanted going into this season. Basically, his injury be damned, take him regardless. The guy still can't run, but that apparently doesn't matter. A lot of the same people who still complain about taking risks on injured players justify Bush's pick the same way Shanahan justified the 2 1st round picks- he would have gone much higher. Middlebrooks was an absolute shutdown corner before he got hurt his final (junior) year and would have gone Top 10 had he not got hurt. Foster was #5 or #6 on Kiper's initial Big Board that season.

[Mediator12]

No matter how you spin it, Middlebrooks was Hubris from David Gibbs to me. The same **** followed the CLE five with Andre Patterson and Courtney Brown is a perennial Injury risk definition too. Coaches get WAY too attached to players who are not theirs yet. They need to be seperated from the selection process in the same way a judge would recuse themselves from a trial if they were involved with a key person.

Injuries in and of themselves do not deter me from taking a risk on a player in the draft. It is value relative to the risk. Toviessi was a BS risk in the second. Foster had little experience and motivation questions about his rehab. I have had little use for the broncos medical staff for some time. They have bought their way into that position. Most of all, they have failed to accurately assign proper risk to value on those picks and that is a systemic problem that neds to be changed.

[DBroncos4life]

Foster and Middlebrooks were both ready to go when their rookie seasons started.

But that's not my point. My point is only that some here are changing their stance on the injured player complaints because Bush is a name guy that some wanted going into this season. Basically, his injury be damned, take him regardless. The guy still can't run, but that apparently doesn't matter. A lot of the same people who still complain about taking risks on injured players justify Bush's pick the same way Shanahan justified the 2 1st round picks- he would have gone much higher. Middlebrooks was an absolute shutdown corner before he got hurt his final (junior) year and would have gone Top 10 had he not got hurt. Foster was #5 or #6 on Kiper's initial Big Board that season.

I know that Middlebrooks and Foster had talent prior to the injury. I still believe taht Foster sucks because of that low blow. I also understand what you are trying to say here. Bush is my 4th back that I would like to see Denver take. Like always though a Husker is number one on that list :) j/k If Bush was there with our first third rounder I wouldn't be angry with the pick, I think the second round is too early if he doesn't run in the combine though.

[TheChamp24]

I agree with Herc saying it is ironic how people want us to take an injured guy after they were moaning about Shanny taking some earlier that didn't work out. Bush can't even run yet.
Plus, I think its funny how Garcia keeps mentioning Peterson and Bush as "injury prone". Both had a freak injury this past year that sidelined them. It wasn't like what happened to TD or anything. I'm beginning to hate the "injury prone" term now because I think it needs to just die.

[Florida_Bronco]

I agree with Herc saying it is ironic how people want us to take an injured guy after they were moaning about Shanny taking some earlier that didn't work out. Bush can't even run yet.
Plus, I think its funny how Garcia keeps mentioning Peterson and Bush as "injury prone". Both had a freak injury this past year that sidelined them. It wasn't like what happened to TD or anything. I'm beginning to hate the "injury prone" term now because I think it needs to just die.

I agree. It seems like any player who gets injured now suddenly becomes "injury prone." To me, Courtney Brown the only real injury prone player on our team.

[Mr. Trout]

I am on board for taking Bush with our second rounder or moving up in the second to snatch him if he falls. His broken leg will be fine. He has had/will have plenty of time to rehab it. With Bobby Petrino going to a power running game I think the Falcons possibly will take him with their second rounder which is #44 overall.

Anybody know this little bit of info, found it on wikipedia. what an athlete!!

Bush attended Male High School in Louisville where he played quarterback as a senior after seeing action at defensive back, defensive end, linebacker, running back, safety, and wide receiver over his career. As a senior, he led the Bulldogs to the state championship game in Kentucky's highest class. In a showdown with future U of L teammate Brian Brohm and his Trinity Shamrocks, Bush threw for 468 yards and six TDs and ran for 116 yards and another TD in a 59-56 loss. This game is widely regarded as one of the best high school games ever played.

[BombsOverBaghdad]

I am on board for taking Bush with our second rounder or moving up in the second to snatch him if he falls. His broken leg will be fine. He has had/will have plenty of time to rehab it. With Bobby Petrino going to a power running game I think the Falcons possibly will take him with their second rounder which is #44 overall.


I agree with this (and remember the Jets select before the Falcons in the second) this is one of the reasons that I have advocated trading to secure more #2's.

With Bush, Mebane, Grubbs, Abiamiri, Weddle, Blalock, Staley, Leonard, ....etc; all projected to go second round -- the real "value" of this draft might be in round two

[TheDave]

does anyone know of any vid clips of Bush pre-injury... I've found plenty of clips on every other running back in the draft, but none on MB

[Broncojef]

I know alot of you aren't big on drafting a RB in the first round but there is no way in hell Michael Bush makes it past the Ravens at then end of the first round. So if you are planning on grabbing him in the second I think you are kidding yourself. I'm not for the wait and see if he falls routine. We need a stud runningback this year and i think we should do what it takes to grab the guy we want rather than wait and hope in the second round.

[youcandoit1687]

I know alot of you aren't big on drafting a RB in the first round but there is no way in hell Michael Bush makes it past the Ravens at then end of the first round. So if you are planning on grabbing him in the second I think you are kidding yourself. I'm not for the wait and see if he falls routine. We need a stud runningback this year and i think we should do what it takes to grab the guy we want rather than wait and hope in the second round.

Bush is projected as low as a third rounder. It all depends on the progression of his injury. To draft him #21 without him running and still limping would be amazingly foolish. For now, it looks like second round would be the best place for him to be picked.

[KYChamp24]

I've been watching this guy since he was in high school. I Live in Louisville. He would be a great pickup for Denver. He has the size and speed to go with it. He can run a guy over and then take off in the open field. What he does in the combine is going to be very important. He can work his way up the latter there.
I would LOVE to see us pick him up.

[KYChamp24]

Bush is projected as low as a third rounder. It all depends on the progression of his injury. To draft him #21 without him running and still limping would be amazingly foolish. For now, it looks like second round would be the best place for him to be picked.

Worked out well for McGahee and the Bills.

[KYChamp24]

I am on board for taking Bush with our second rounder or moving up in the second to snatch him if he falls. His broken leg will be fine. He has had/will have plenty of time to rehab it. With Bobby Petrino going to a power running game I think the Falcons possibly will take him with their second rounder which is #44 overall.

Anybody know this little bit of info, found it on wikipedia. what an athlete!!

Bush attended Male High School in Louisville where he played quarterback as a senior after seeing action at defensive back, defensive end, linebacker, running back, safety, and wide receiver over his career. As a senior, he led the Bulldogs to the state championship game in Kentucky's highest class. In a showdown with future U of L teammate Brian Brohm and his Trinity Shamrocks, Bush threw for 468 yards and six TDs and ran for 116 yards and another TD in a 59-56 loss. This game is widely regarded as one of the best high school games ever played.

I was at that game. It was 15 degrees out side but well worth watching!!

[Drek]

Worked out well for McGahee and the Bills.
Did it really?

2003 0 games played, 0 carries, 0 yards.
2004 16 games played, 284 carries, 1128 yards, 4.0 ypc, 13 TDs.
2005 16 games played, 325 carries, 1247 yards, 3.8 ypc, 6 TDs.
2006 14 games played, 259 carries, 990 yards, 3.8 ypc, 5 TDs.

Last year he ranked 34th in the league in ypc.

Yeah, I'm sure they're feeling real good about giving him four years of first round money for that production.

[Broncojef]

Bush is projected as low as a third rounder. It all depends on the progression of his injury. To draft him #21 without him running and still limping would be amazingly foolish. For now, it looks like second round would be the best place for him to be picked.

I don't know where you get your draft info but Bush isn't a third round projection in any draft I have heard of. I'm not for taking him #21 but if we are waiting for him to fall to us in the second round I think he will be gone. I see Bush going late first early second like everyone else. We just don't have any good picks right now in the area he'll go. If he had stayed healthy his senior year he'd be top 5 and would've had serious Heisman considerations.
Shanny likes to draft injured players anyway, if he's gonna continue to do that to find hidden value I hope its with a bluechipper/stud like Bush.

[elsid13]

I don't know where you get your draft info but Bush isn't a third round projection in any draft I have heard of. I'm not for taking him #21 but if we are waiting for him to fall to us in the second round I think he will be gone. I see Bush going late first early second like everyone else. We just don't have any good picks right now in the area he'll go. If he had stayed healthy his senior year he'd be top 5 and would've had serious Heisman considerations.
Shanny likes to draft injured players anyway, if he's gonna continue to do that to find hidden value I hope its with a bluechipper/stud like Bush.

That what the advisory committee told Bush dependent on his injury status. And Bush has said himself he been told by GM in the league that he will fall if he not ready to run. That a risk he said he willing to take- I think he knows that this a weak draft for RB and he has a better chance of going in the first or second round this year then next.

Beside there is a reason it call "mock" Mock draft done by folks on the Internet and then there is really what happens.

[TheChamp24]

I've been watching this guy since he was in high school. I Live in Louisville. He would be a great pickup for Denver. He has the size and speed to go with it. He can run a guy over and then take off in the open field. What he does in the combine is going to be very important. He can work his way up the latter there.
I would LOVE to see us pick him up.

From some reports he can't even run right now, and was walking with a limp.
I think he goes in the 2nd round, maybe early, it depends if he can run before the draft.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

[QUOTE=jth1331;1486913]From some reports he can't even run right now, and was walking with a limp.
QUOTE]

Those reports are two months old. He will go to the combine, but will probalby not run or do any drills.

[elsid13]

Bush was on ESPN Radio on Sat with Mel. He going to the combine to weigh in and interview. Hoping to run at the Cardinal's Pro Day. At worse he think he will ready to play football in April/June/July time frame (he was very vague on that question). Working to get back in football shape was 260 now to 246 wants to be 240 for the combine. This is re post from what I reported on another thread.

[Drek]

Bush was on ESPN Radio on Sat with Mel. He going to the combine to weigh in and interview. Hoping to run at the Cardinal's Pro Day. At worse he think he will ready to play football in April/June/July time frame (he was very vague on that question). Working to get back in football shape was 260 now to 246 wants to be 240 for the combine. This is re post from what I reported on another thread.

See, this is what makes me wonder about Bush, not the injury itself. First it was the comment that even if he couldn't run before the draft he'd be a 3rd rounder (mentioned in a rather nonchalant manner), now its obscure dates for when he should be ready to run with an off hand mention than he blew up to 260 this winter.

Bush seems like a great player but damn if this isn't starting to sound like a disaster waiting to happen.

[TheChamp24]

[QUOTE=jth1331;1486913]From some reports he can't even run right now, and was walking with a limp.
QUOTE]

Those reports are two months old. He will go to the combine, but will probalby not run or do any drills.

Actually, I think they were a month old if that. The guy is simply not in football shape, and he won't be for at least another couple of months. I don't think even if he runs at the pro day for Louisville he'll show impressive numbers.
Plus, like someone else pointed out, he ballooned up to 260. He is down to 246, but I'd like to see him trim down some more, which he probably will do.
I have questions about him, and think that he is a 2nd round at best prospect at the moment.

[chaz]

who wouldt gain weight if you broke your leg?? not a whole lot of exercise you can do without your legs......give him some slack, i think its awesome that he has already lsot that much weight still not being able to run. shows he is dedicated in my eyes.

[Broncojef]

See, this is what makes me wonder about Bush, not the injury itself. First it was the comment that even if he couldn't run before the draft he'd be a 3rd rounder (mentioned in a rather nonchalant manner), now its obscure dates for when he should be ready to run with an off hand mention than he blew up to 260 this winter.

Bush seems like a great player but damn if this isn't starting to sound like a disaster waiting to happen.

I'll lay any amount of $$ he's drafted well before the third even if he's in a lazyboy come combine time.

[Drek]

who wouldt gain weight if you broke your leg?? not a whole lot of exercise you can do without your legs......give him some slack, i think its awesome that he has already lsot that much weight still not being able to run. shows he is dedicated in my eyes.

I don't know, maybe manage his caloric intake and actually drop some weight instead? The guy is looking to make a living with his body, be nice to see that he understands how to take care of it.

I'll lay any amount of $$ he's drafted well before the third even if he's in a lazyboy come combine time.

I'm sure he does, mid second at worst I'm betting. But thats some big risk to take on a top 75 pick. I've said on this board I wouldn't be upset if the Broncos took him with our second but I'd be praying to god that we keep Bell & Bell in tact or add another veteran to team with Mike if we move Tatum because Bush might not give you **** in year one.

Its all this two bit bull**** with him, makes me hesitant to think he's the guy we need.

[Dedhed]

I want no part of Bush.









Unless it's in round 6.

[U4EA]

[...damn if this isn't starting to sound like a disaster waiting to happen.

Give that man a cigar!

Everyone here who's not an MD and is sure he'll be fit as a fiddle take one step back.

A broken bone is a tricky thing (I was told when I broke a couple of mine.) Sometimes they heal perfectly, sometimes it's like your mother's china cup you broke and tried to glue back together. I would not draft Bush until 600 doctors (none of whom are on the Broncos medical staff - because, well just look at their record) have given him a thousand X-Rays apiece. And then I saw him run.

[watermock]

No

[Dedhed]

Bush is likely IR material this year, and if we're going to wait until next year why wouldn't we take a stab at one of the deepest RB classes in years.

I Love AD, but he'll be way too expensive. I like Lynch, but he'll be over valued. We should should sign a servicable veteran as a stop gap this year (Chris Brown/Rhodes/Marcel Shipp/Adrian Peterson[Chicago]), and use an early pick next year when we'll get much better value. I would also get a guy like Kolby Smith or Nate Ilaoa in the 5th or 6th.

We'll also get a better look at Mike Bell, who I think can be a great back in this system if he can harness his energy a little. I'd be comfortable with Chris Brown and Mike Bell next year. Mike emerged as a reliable ball carrier when Tatum went in the toilet the last three weeks, and I think he has more potential than he gets credit for around here. Having a solid (if not spectacular) veteran there to take some pressure off Mike and I think our ground game will be more effective than it was this year.

[Broncojef]

I want no part of Bush.









Unless it's in round 6.

Yeah good luck with that.

[Florida_Bronco]

Bush is likely IR material this year, and if we're going to wait until next year why wouldn't we take a stab at one of the deepest RB classes in years.

I Love AD, but he'll be way too expensive. I like Lynch, but he'll be over valued. We should should sign a servicable veteran as a stop gap this year (Chris Brown/Rhodes/Marcel Shipp/Adrian Peterson[Chicago]), and use an early pick next year when we'll get much better value. I would also get a guy like Kolby Smith or Nate Ilaoa in the 5th or 6th.

We'll also get a better look at Mike Bell, who I think can be a great back in this system if he can harness his energy a little. I'd be comfortable with Chris Brown and Mike Bell next year. Mike emerged as a reliable ball carrier when Tatum went in the toilet the last three weeks, and I think he has more potential than he gets credit for around here. Having a solid (if not spectacular) veteran there to take some pressure off Mike and I think our ground game will be more effective than it was this year.

Bush will be just fine this year.

[SoCalBronco]

I'll take him at 21.

[Broncojef]

I Love AD, but he'll be way too expensive. I like Lynch, but he'll be over valued. We should should sign a servicable veteran as a stop gap this year (Chris Brown/Rhodes/Marcel Shipp/Adrian Peterson[Chicago]), and use an early pick next year when we'll get much better value. I would also get a guy like Kolby Smith or Nate Ilaoa in the 5th or 6th.


Good God I'm gonna be sick if i have to sit through another year of no run game. Thank God Shanny is at the helm and most likely sicker than I at watching the crap we've had at RB lately. I don't want value at any pick could care less about it...gimme a playmaker and stop making me feel good about who I got in the third round even though they'll never see the field.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Bush is likely IR material this year.


Why do you think that? His break is less severe than Sapp's and there is no indication Sapp won't be ready for camp.

[Florida_Bronco]

Why do you think that? His break is less severe than Sapp's and there is no indication Sapp won't be ready for camp.

Not to mention Bush's happened at the very beginning of the season.

[Dedhed]

Why do you think that? His break is less severe than Sapp's and there is no indication Sapp won't be ready for camp.

Is he going to participate at the combine? "Likely" was probably too strong, but I don't think he'll be 100% this year.

[Dedhed]

Good God I'm gonna be sick if i have to sit through another year of no run game. Thank God Shanny is at the helm and most likely sicker than I at watching the crap we've had at RB lately. I don't want value at any pick could care less about it...gimme a playmaker and stop making me feel good about who I got in the third round even though they'll never see the field.

You're right. We should throw value out the window and make AD our only draft requirement. We'd still have a 6th and 7th rounder to address the DL and S holes.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The run game isnt going to be "cured" with a back alone. This unit needs consistency from it's O-line in both phases before the backs will really start to become a factor for all 16 games and beyond.

I would love to have Bush, but I dont think that he will make as big of a difference as a brand-new quality RT would.

[Broncojef]

You're right. We should throw value out the window and make AD our only draft requirement. We'd still have a 6th and 7th rounder to address the DL and S holes.

Shanny managed to maneuver pretty well last year to get where he needed to get his boy and still have an awesome draft, I'll bet on him again this year. With our picks, Plummer, Tatum and Foster on the trade board I'm comfortable we'll have more than enough ammo to do some damage and still get the guy (AD, Lynch or Bush) we want.

[Dedhed]

The run game isnt going to be "cured" with a back alone. This unit needs consistency from it's O-line in both phases before the backs will really start to become a factor for all 16 games and beyond.

I would love to have Bush, but I dont think that he will make as big of a difference as a brand-new quality RT would.
Well said. I think improved OL play and the addition of Cutler will dramatically improve our running game. Considerably more than adding a rookie RB.

[Dedhed]

Shanny managed to maneuver pretty well last year to get where he needed to get his boy and still have an awesome draft, I'll bet on him again this year. With our picks, Plummer, Tatum and Foster on the trade board I'm comfortable we'll have more than enough ammo to do some damage and still get the guy (AD, Lynch or Bush) we want.
If we move into a position where we could draft AD, we had better take Alan Branch or Jamaal Anderson, or Gaines Adams, or Laron Landry, or Amobi Okoye.

[DBroncos4life]

Well said. I think improved OL play and the addition of Cutler will dramatically improve our running game. Considerably more than adding a rookie RB.

Has there ever been a real problem with rookie RBs stepping up in our system? Tatum is the only one that I can think of and he was late getting into camp.

[Drek]

The run game isnt going to be "cured" with a back alone. This unit needs consistency from it's O-line in both phases before the backs will really start to become a factor for all 16 games and beyond.

I would love to have Bush, but I dont think that he will make as big of a difference as a brand-new quality RT would.

I like how Erik Pears is a total afterthought for RT.

If he was some washed up late 20 something former first round bust who played as well as he did last year everyone would think "hey, we're doing pretty good at RT now."

Instead he's going to be 25 and has proven himself at each level he's played at. He's going to do a good job on the right side, wait and see.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I like how Erik Pears is a total afterthought for RT.
If he was some washed up late 20 something former first round bust who played as well as he did last year everyone would think "hey, we're doing pretty good at RT now."
Instead he's going to be 25 and has proven himself at each level he's played at. He's going to do a good job on the right side, wait and see.

I'll believe it when I see it. Pears had alot of trouble last season. He has to earn the benefit of the doubt, and he hasnt done that yet.

Our line was horrible last season, especially in pass protection. Pears wasnt the exception, he was part of the problem. He and Big George were pillars of suckiness.

[Broncojef]

If we move into a position where we could draft AD, we had better take Alan Branch or Jamaal Anderson, or Gaines Adams, or Laron Landry, or Amobi Okoye.

I'd take AD and team him up with Cutler, Sheffler, Walker, Marshall and let the rest of the AFC West get scared. A running game with Cutler's arm and we are in business. Please no washed out Jamal Lewis or make me suffer through more huge holes opening up and having to watch Tatum fumble or stumble. I remember when 3rd and one's were a given, recently they have been passing downs. Last year was the first in sometime that Shanny was way proactive and dictated where he was going to get the guys he wanted in the draft . I expect more of the same this year. Sorry man I don't see a DT/DE in the first.

[Dedhed]

I'd take AD and team him up with Cutler, Sheffler, Walker, Marshall and let the rest of the AFC West get scared. A running game with Cutler's arm and we are in business. Please no washed out Jamal Lewis or make me suffer through more huge holes opening up and having to watch Tatum fumble or stumble. I remember when 3rd and one's were a given, recently they have been passing downs. Last year was the first in sometime that Shanny was way proactive and dictated where he was going to get the guys he wanted in the draft . I expect more of the same this year. Sorry man I don't see a DT/DE in the first.
I think you're minimizing the difference between moving from #15 to #11 and moving from #21 into the top 5. It is night and day. To get that high in the frist round is brutally expensive, and it's not likely that Plummer, Foster, and Tatum would be enough.

I think you're over focused on what will make the running game better, and not looking at what will improve this team the most.

[Drek]

I'll believe it when I see it. Pears had alot of trouble last season. He has to earn the benefit of the doubt, and he hasnt done that yet.

Our line was horrible last season, especially in pass protection. Pears wasnt the exception, he was part of the problem. He and Big George were pillars of suckiness.

Really? Because I didn't see all this blind side pressure coming down on Jake and Jay while Pears was at LT. Meanwhile Foster was doing his best matadour impression and Carlisle was getting spun like a top by even average DTs.

We had some serious OL problems but Pears wasn't one of them. Is Lepsis better? Yeah, but Lepsis is a great LT. Pears was out of position and had no preseason time with the first unit.

I'll enjoy watching him play a quality RT, you can keep looking for the replacement to a young, capable lineman.

[Mediator12]

So much for the Micahel Bush thread ;D

I really like Pears as he played exceptionally well last year getting thrust into the LT spot despite the fact that he was playing RT for almost all of Camp last year and not getting any time with the #1 OL until Lepsis got Hurt.

Meadows was very good until his fitness, or lack thereof, fianlly caught up to him. He was much more consistent than the guy who played there the last three seasons. Realistically, I think the OT's are going to be better next year with more time and experience.

Lepsis might even come back better than before as ACL rehab is really demanding in today's world. I know I came back more explosive in short area quickness and a lot stronger too from both my Rehab experiences. The rehab Process is all about the skill of the surgeon, the quality of the rehab, and the Mental toughness of the player to push themselves farther than they think they can go. I am sure Lepsis will have a great advantage in those three areas.

What continues to concern me is the OL execution against LARGE DL's, including 3-4 DL's. They continually get pushed out of their zone before they slide laterally. That needs to be coached better and they need to get more nasty up front. Rick has been way too soft on them the last two years, focusing on finesse and technique and not enough punch at the POA.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

[QUOTE=Mediator12;1488656]So much for the Micahel Bush thread ;D

QUOTE]

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, Mr. Mediator is to provide a detailed assessment of Michael Bush's health when you see him at the combine.

This tape will self destruct in five seconds. ;D

[Drek]

What continues to concern me is the OL execution against LARGE DL's, including 3-4 DL's. They continually get pushed out of their zone before they slide laterally. That needs to be coached better and they need to get more nasty up front. Rick has been way too soft on them the last two years, focusing on finesse and technique and not enough punch at the POA.

I think our struggles against 3-4 fronts is also largely a product of poor scheming. None of our TEs or RBs can consistently block any linebacker, let alone talented 3-4 OLBs, yet we frequently ask that of them along with asking our OTs to be able to step out and pick them up at times as well.

Our recent history against 3-4 defenses strikes me as a line operating in a state of confusion with many guys trying to do jobs that are well over their heads and the end result is total collapse followed by a jail break for the QB.

Things like Lepsis standing in space not engaging anyone for fear of a blitzing OLB, Carlisle trying to hold up a 300+ pound 3-4 DE, and Alexander trying to block a LB are things we've seen far too often for this team to be successful against the now en vouge 3-4 defensive front.

Replacing Carlisle with Kuper will be a helpful size upgrade and I think he's very likely a better pass blocker, so that should help. Signing Daniel Graham or at the least utilizing Mustard over Alexander should help as well, but its not a cure all. Hamilton and Nalen will still be fighting guys with 20+ pounds on them in the interior, our FBs are mediocre pass blockers, and our HBs are downright bad at it. We need to add some size and toughness to the offensive side of the ball, that is already in motion to some degree with the OL, Kuper is a size upgrade, Myers and Eslinger will be as well if they replace Hamilton and Nalen, and Pear at 305 is big enough to do well at RT.

In an ideal world to me we add Graham through FA, draft Corey Anderson out of Tennessee to provide us with a powerful FB, and get Jamal Lewis at RB. That trio would completely overhaul the way we can implement pass protection against a 3-4 as any of them can pick up a blitzing linebacker, allowing the OL to focus heavily on winning the battle at the LOS.

[Rohirrim]

I think our struggles against 3-4 fronts is also largely a product of poor scheming. None of our TEs or RBs can consistently block any linebacker, let alone talented 3-4 OLBs, yet we frequently ask that of them along with asking our OTs to be able to step out and pick them up at times as well.

Our recent history against 3-4 defenses strikes me as a line operating in a state of confusion with many guys trying to do jobs that are well over their heads and the end result is total collapse followed by a jail break for the QB.

Things like Lepsis standing in space not engaging anyone for fear of a blitzing OLB, Carlisle trying to hold up a 300+ pound 3-4 DE, and Alexander trying to block a LB are things we've seen far too often for this team to be successful against the now en vouge 3-4 defensive front.

Replacing Carlisle with Kuper will be a helpful size upgrade and I think he's very likely a better pass blocker, so that should help. Signing Daniel Graham or at the least utilizing Mustard over Alexander should help as well, but its not a cure all. Hamilton and Nalen will still be fighting guys with 20+ pounds on them in the interior, our FBs are mediocre pass blockers, and our HBs are downright bad at it. We need to add some size and toughness to the offensive side of the ball, that is already in motion to some degree with the OL, Kuper is a size upgrade, Myers and Eslinger will be as well if they replace Hamilton and Nalen, and Pear at 305 is big enough to do well at RT.

In an ideal world to me we add Graham through FA, draft Corey Anderson out of Tennessee to provide us with a powerful FB, and get Jamal Lewis at RB. That trio would completely overhaul the way we can implement pass protection against a 3-4 as any of them can pick up a blitzing linebacker, allowing the OL to focus heavily on winning the battle at the LOS.

Brian Leonard kills all these birds with one stone. Blocks, runs, catches. :wiggle:

[azbroncfan]

Brian Leonard kills all these birds with one stone. Blocks, runs, catches. :wiggle:

You've gone Jakie 4 life or mock for Cutler on Leonard.

[Rohirrim]

You've gone Jakie 4 life or mock for Cutler on Leonard.

Makes it fun. We'll see in a couple of years if I'm right, or not. :)

[Drek]

Brian Leonard kills all these birds with one stone. Blocks, runs, catches. :wiggle:

I like Leonard, but it'd be replacing Jamal Lewis. We need a guy who can block 3-4 OLBs like Porter and Merriman, I don't see Leonard doing that consistantly.

Graham can though, and Corey Anderson could very well develop into an FB capable of that as well. I'm picturing Lorenzo Neal with hands.

[Rohirrim]

I like Leonard, but it'd be replacing Jamal Lewis. We need a guy who can block 3-4 OLBs like Porter and Merriman, I don't see Leonard doing that consistantly.

Graham can though, and Corey Anderson could very well develop into an FB capable of that as well. I'm picturing Lorenzo Neal with hands.

Nobody is going to block those guys consistently. But another way to deal with the rush is to burn it with screens. I see no reason the Broncos couldn't bring in Graham and also draft Leonard. Either (or both) of those guys could block, or burn you. The key is, I don't think the Broncos scheme has ever been as successful as when they had Howard Griffith in the backfield. IMO, Leonard has that same caliber.

AZ makes fun of me for getting worked up over one player in the draft. I was also worked up over Polamalu and Tommie Harris, and thought the Broncos should do what it took to get them. That would have worked out.

[Drek]

Nobody is going to block those guys consistently. But another way to deal with the rush is to burn it with screens. I see no reason the Broncos couldn't bring in Graham and also draft Leonard. Either (or both) of those guys could block, or burn you. The key is, I don't think the Broncos scheme has ever been as successful as when they had Howard Griffith in the backfield. IMO, Leonard has that same caliber.

AZ makes fun of me for getting worked up over one player in the draft. I was also worked up over Polamalu and Tommie Harris, and thought the Broncos should do what it took to get them. That would have worked out.
I wouldn't expect anyone to stop star OLBs every down, but I'd expect them to significantly impair their ability to pressure the QB.

My dream situation to defeat the 3-4 front would be much like you're describing though. A TE, FB, or HB going out on a screen or slant to give Cutler a release valve left wide open by a blitzing LB coupled with another one of those three positions in to block should the dump out be taken away and Cutler needs more time.

Leonard would play great into that as he gives us an all in one weapon against agressive defenses. He can block pretty well, catch, and run. My favorite vision of Leonard in Broncos' orange and blue is him tearing through the middle of the Chargers' DL on a draw play ran to perfection. I like him as an RB in our system myself, I think his 40 time will open some eyes now that he's dropped down to the 220-230 range, helping to validate him as a true running back.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Looks like Michael Bush will run at the Louisville Pro Day

[ludo21]

when is there pro day?

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

when is there pro day?

Wednesday - 3/14

[That One Guy]

Hasn't March 14th Passed? I'm gonna assume he didn't run?

[elsid13]

The pro day is on the 26th

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Looks like Bad News for Bush. Broncs should take a shot in the 6th or 7th and put him on IR.

http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news?slug=ap-michaelbush&prov=ap&type=lgns

Former Louisville RB Bush undergoes surgery

March 21, 2007

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Former Louisville running back Michael Bush underwent surgery Tuesday on the leg he broke during the first game of last season.

Bush, who entered the upcoming NFL draft as a junior, had a new rod inserted and was expected to be released from a Louisville hospital on Wednesday, spokesman Rocco Gasparro said.

Gasparro said Bush sought another medical opinion when his bone didn't heal quickly enough. He's expected to be out another couple of months and won't be able to work out Monday during Louisville's pro day, Gasparro said.

Bush decided to skip his senior season, despite playing in only one game as a junior. In his sophomore year, Bush ran for 1,183 yards and an NCAA-leading 23 touchdowns.

He scored three touchdowns in the first half of the season-opener against Kentucky last year before breaking his leg early in the second half.

The Cardinals went on to finish 12-1, beating Wake Forest in the Orange Bowl.

[bendog]

Plummer for Bush ... the irony.

[Drek]

Looks like Bad News for Bush. Broncs should take a shot in the 6th or 7th and put him on IR.

http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news?slug=ap-michaelbush&prov=ap&type=lgns

Former Louisville RB Bush undergoes surgery

March 21, 2007

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Former Louisville running back Michael Bush underwent surgery Tuesday on the leg he broke during the first game of last season.

Bush, who entered the upcoming NFL draft as a junior, had a new rod inserted and was expected to be released from a Louisville hospital on Wednesday, spokesman Rocco Gasparro said.

Gasparro said Bush sought another medical opinion when his bone didn't heal quickly enough. He's expected to be out another couple of months and won't be able to work out Monday during Louisville's pro day, Gasparro said.

Bush decided to skip his senior season, despite playing in only one game as a junior. In his sophomore year, Bush ran for 1,183 yards and an NCAA-leading 23 touchdowns.

He scored three touchdowns in the first half of the season-opener against Kentucky last year before breaking his leg early in the second half.

The Cardinals went on to finish 12-1, beating Wake Forest in the Orange Bowl.

I bet he's still taken in the late 3rd or as a sandwich comp.