Dre' Bly wants to be a Skin?

[Whiskeypeet]

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/2007/03/dre_bly_wants_to_be_a_skin.html#comments

Dre' Bly wants to be a Skin? That's What I Hear
Numerous league sources, including several who have spoken with Denver cornerback Dre' Bly, said that the player is miffed that he was dealt to the Broncos last week instead of Washington. As I have reported, the Redskins were deep into trade and subsequent contract talks with Bly - a Detroit Lion at the time - and were dangling cornerback Shawn Springs in discussions with those teams.

Springs was coveted by Detroit and Denver, and very open to the possibility of a trade, but the Redskins could not match Denver's offer of two players and a draft pick (the Redskins had no suitable picks in the 2007 draft) and the Lions sent him to the Broncos instead. Once it was clear Bly was going to Denver, the Redskins tried to work out a swap with them, but according to a source, the Redskins asked for cap help deferring the costs of trading Springs ($7.5 million) and Denver refuses (the Broncos did not have a ton of space, either).

However, the Broncos have been unwilling to extend Bly's contract, which has one year and $4.2 million remaining. Bly has told numerous other NFL players that Redskins owner Daniel Snyder, in the course of trade talks, was willing to give Bly a new contract including a lucrative signing bonus, and Bly has expressed his concern with remaining a Bronco with several of his new teammates in Denver. He's from Chesapeake, VA, wants to be here and wants that new contract. His agent, Kennard McGuire, initially declined to comment on the matter.

Springs, meantime, has ties to the staffs of both Denver and Detroit, and has said he will not take a pay cut to remain a Redskin this season (he is due to make $6.8 million and carries a high $7.3 million cap figure, which the Redskins have been eager to trim). The team approached Springs about taking a salary cut to remain here earlier this offseason, and he refused; his cap figures are huge each of the next three seasons and some team officials have expressed concerns about his age and injury history.

Sources close to Springs say he remains unsure about his status with the Redskins despite Coach Joe Gibbs saying repeated that he is "counting on Springs" for next season. Denver Coach Mike Shanahan is a big proponent of Springs's play, according to a source, and the Broncos and Redskins have completed trades in each of the past three years and are among the most aggressive teams in the NFL when it comes to swapping players. The Redskins remain very interested in dropping down from the sixth overall pick to acquire additional selections in this year's draft, and the possibility exists of another deal this offseason involving the cornerbacks and/or draft picks.

A trade after June 1 would cost the Redskins just $2.5 million in a cap hit on Springs (with $5 million coming in 2008). Springs is also considering approaching the Redskins about possibility relinquishing several million dollars in deferred payments still owed him in order to facilitate his possible trade or release. Many members of the Redskins staff are thrilled with the possibility of a cornerback trio of Springs, free-agent signing Fred Smoot and youngster Carlos Rogers, but should Bly attempt to force his way out of Denver, the situation bears monitoring, with the huge free agent contracts being thrown around this offseason not going unnoticed by Bly or Springs.

So keep an eye on this one folks. I think there is still a chance for more trade talks to resume. The Broncos are also very high on Ladell Betts, and could make a play in that direction as well as they entertain other RB options. Definitely something I will be monitoring.

By Jason La Canfora | March 4, 2007; 4:09 PM ET

[rovolution]

Just a bitter article. Read the Champ Bailey Article in the RMN.

Champ talked w/ Bly and Bly said he is overjoyed to be teamed up with Champ. There is even an article with Bly's mother saying how happy he is to be in Denver.


The Skins and there stupid fans cannot get over the fact we screw them every offseason. Have fun with your boy Smoot Foreskins.


Blys mom article: http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_5337197

Champ Quote: “He wanted to play with me,” Champ Bailey said of Bly. “I wanted him to come here. <b>When he first told me about the possibility, I couldn’t believe it.</b> How could they get the both of us on the same team? But they worked it out. He’s excited about it.

[TheDave]

Strangest offseason ever!

[Bronx33]

Well well well the skins needing a CB ( i wonder what would cause that?)

[cutthemdown]

that's funny considering we all read the story about Bly supposedly wanting to play along side Bailey etc etc. Blah Blah Blah Blah. I could care less shut up and play!!!!!!!

[Dudeskey]

Maybe he did but that was probably before his agent told him how much cap space the brilliant Dan Snyder had to work with...

[BroncoInferno]

Oh, good lord. Well, if we get Springs, I'd be OK with it.

[sirhcyennek81]

Good grief...


:Broncos:

[NFLBRONCO]

I'd never rule out a Den/Skins trade send us the 6th pick.

[yerner]

Sure give us the 1st rounder, Springs, Betts and we'll talk. Shoot we can even send the lubricant.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

and what exactly would the Skins be throwing in besides Springs to make this hypothetical deal happen?

and Denver has had Bly for all of 48 hours, and this guy thinks it's a big deal that Denver hasn't extended him? La Confora sucked as the Caps beat writer, and it appears nothing has changed after going to the Skins beat.

[eddie mac]

What a load of ****e. Has no-one noticed yet that the Skins re-signed Smoot???

[Bronx33]

Hey maybe it's a good time to get portis for a 6th rounder.. ;D

[eddie mac]

I'd expect a denial from Bly's people tomorrow. Not the kind of thing fans expect to hear from a player we've just acquired.

[Popps]

As much as I like the trade, Bly has always had a mouth... and he's always overestimated his value. It wouldn't totally shock me if there was a little basis of truth here. But, it could very well be nonsense.

More than that, Broncos fans should be prepared to watch Bly get burned on a seme-regular basis. For one, he's a gambler... but he's also going to be thrown at almost exclusively, as people don't want to test Champ.

Top that off with the fact that he's got a rep for not liking to tackle.

Don't get me wrong, I like the trade. I think it's about as good as we can do, given the circumstances. But, he's no Champ Bailey.

[rbackfactory80]

I would do a BLY for Portis and Springs. It just makes 0 sense though. Bly complains for the last 4 years about Detroit and Harrington and how he wants to play for a winner, and then he say he want to go to Washington. Makes no sense.

[usndan]

I heard either through ESPN or NFL Network, just after the trade was official, Denver was in the process of working out a new contract for Bly.

[thumpc]

So, is Snyder really out of cap space this time?

[BroncoInferno]

More than that, Broncos fans should be prepared to watch Bly get burned on a seme-regular basis. For one, he's a gambler... but he's also going to be thrown at almost exclusively, as people don't want to test Champ.

He'll get burned occasionally, but he also has a proven track record as a playmaker, and that nose for ball coupled with the extra activity he'll receive will likely result in a lot of big plays. I think he's gonig to have a 7-10 INT type of year (assuming that this is all bunk and he's actually on the team).

Top that off with the fact that he's got a rep for not liking to tackle.

Hmm, I've read pretty much the opposite, that he doesn't mind putting his hat in on a play.

Don't get me wrong, I like the trade. I think it's about as good as we can do, given the circumstances. But, he's no Champ Bailey.

Nope, but his playmaking makes him the perfect compliment because he'll make teams pay for testing him too much. Also keep in mind that he'll be covering #2 WRs here instead of #1s.

[chaz]

what is the story on shawn springs? scouting report?

[watermock]

Bly did a double take on Clement's contract. I saw this coming a mile away.

Why was the main ESPN station broadcasting in Spanish?

WTF do you expect when a comparable CB signs for 10 times what Bly is due. Fine, give us a first Snyder, and we can just take Dayion Hughes along with Lynch or Pittman in the second.

This is just sour grapes. If he doesn't want to play here, trade him. Washington's secon is fine with me.

[yerner]

Springs was injured much of last year I think . But the season prior he played well.

[Sassy]

As much as I like the trade, Bly has always had a mouth... and he's always overestimated his value. It wouldn't totally shock me if there was a little basis of truth here. But, it could very well be nonsense.

More than that, Broncos fans should be prepared to watch Bly get burned on a seme-regular basis. For one, he's a gambler... but he's also going to be thrown at almost exclusively, as people don't want to test Champ.

Top that off with the fact that he's got a rep for not liking to tackle.

Don't get me wrong, I like the trade. I think it's about as good as we can do, given the circumstances. But, he's no Champ Bailey.

No one is Champ Bailey ;D

[NFLBRONCO]

Lots of this stuff will have alot more merit considering our trading history with the Skins. They only have 1 day one pick so I think 6th pick can be had. Denver is known for multi tier trades so anything is possible.

[wabbit]

There is some truth to this.

I'm not privy to the sentiments of Dre' Bly regarding playing here in Denver, but I do know the Broncos have had their eye on Springs for years. They've just never had the cap room vis-a-vis other player priorities & opportunities (Champ Bailey).

I'm not exactly sure why the staff is so high on the guy, but his name has come up several times on a wish list in the last two-three years.

[rovolution]

If this is true (which i doubt it is), Shanny better sign BOTH KERNEY AND GRAHAM to ridiculously high contracts.

[Paladin]

I always thought Springs was an above average DB, but not much more. My most vivid memory of him was his play in Seattle when he was badly abused by Elway.

[DTBLAS]

Shawn Springs and Ladell Betts and i would do it. But i dont think the skins would give up Betts. Add in the fact that Springs would want to get paid....

[DomCasual]

I always thought Springs was an above average DB, but not much more. My most vivid memory of him was his play in Seattle when he was badly abused by Elway.

:) That was great. I don't know that I have ever seen a better dear-in-the-headlights moment in any sport. His confidence was just shot, and you knew they were going to keep going after him. Those were good times.

In fairness to Springs, I think that was his rookie year. I bet, to this day, it was his worst experience as a pro.

I kind of miss having Seattle in the division. Their fans were like a mix of Chefs fans and Charger fans. They were fairly new to the NFL, so they had very little concept of reality (Chargers). But that never stopped them from spouting off (Chefs).

[DomCasual]

I'd do Bly for Portis, Springs, this year's 1st (#6) and next year's first (probably #1 or so). We'd be overpaying a little, but I figure it would be the least we could do to help make up for the shellacking they received in the last few trades we've done.

Actually, now that I think about it, we might want to make them throw in Sean Taylor, to even things out a bit.

[Lestat]

what player didn't do a double take at Clements deal, heck i was thinking "damn i guess Champ's about to get paid again"

[Northman]

Bly is better than Springs anyway not too mention Shawn has been plagued by injury his entire career.

[cabronco]

I can see some kind of trade in the works here...sending Bly over for Springs and Broncos getting Portis back ( because the skins want to keep Betts) for a potential draft pick. Im not sure we could handle Portis' contract though.

[worm]

I always thought Springs was an above average DB, but not much more. My most vivid memory of him was his play in Seattle when he was badly abused by Elway.

Easy Ed was the one abusing Springs. It wasn't even a contest.

[frerottenextelway]

I hear this was "leaked" from Bly's agent, not Bly himself.

[-Slap-]

I always thought Springs was an above average DB, but not much more. My most vivid memory of him was his play in Seattle when he was badly abused by Elway.

Springs' rookie season, Elway is firing the ball away through the back of the end zone. Experienced defensive backs knew better, but Shawn decides to throw one of his hands in the way. He spent the next six weeks in IR while the bones in his hand knitted themselves back together.

[FloridaResident]

springs hasnt played full season since 2000..SCREW THE TRADE

[youcandoit1687]

Springs is doing a lot of drills to give him better hips, knees, etc. as well as improve his backpedalling and footwork. It should help him be a healthier, all around better corner this year.

I wonder if Snyder would be interested in DomFox or Paymah for like a second rounder next year. I'd like to keep DomFox around after his gutsy performance against Cincinnatti but for that price, it'd be a great deal. The two of them might also want a change of scenery after DWill.

[SpringStein]

Bly is better than Springs anyway not too mention Shawn has been plagued by injury his entire career.

I'm in total agreement. Plus Bly is younger.

[Kaylore]

I hear this was "leaked" from Bly's agent, not Bly himself.

Bingo. This is his agent wanting a new deal for him so he can make some money of the new contract. Agents make their money getting a piece of every new contract; that's what this is about.

[bpc]

I'm sure there is some truth to this article because of Bly growing up in the VA area. Then again, we've heard reports that a long term contract is being finalized for Bly.

I think Bly will be fine and Denver will be three deep again at CB next year.

[Killericon]

Well, wouldn't YOU want to get a grossly oversized contract too?

[Parlett316]

As a Skins fan, I say you guys should keep Bly!

[Atlas]

I always thought Springs was an above average DB, but not much more. My most vivid memory of him was his play in Seattle when he was badly abused by Elway.

That was Spring's rookie year. I think you can forgive him for giving up a bunch of big plays the first time King John went at him. He was probably shell-shocked after that game.

[Atlas]

I remember the 2nd game Denver faced Springs was at Mile High and he said that they could come at him becuase he had learned a lot and was ready for them... Elway burned him for another long TD!! LOL

[Clockwork Orange]

What a load of crap this article or blog or whatever is.

[Willynowei]

Someone signs up to the Orangemane just to put up one thread that links to a blogpost about a fairly sensationalist trade article (yet another) and mysteriously has no opinionated input...

Don't mind the thread but I'm always sceptical of entire threads linked to blogs...

[Hercules Rockefeller]

The link went to the blog of the Skins beat writer for the Washington Post, you're looking for any reason to dismiss what was said if you're skeptical of a blog posting by a team's beat writer.

Just watched Vic Lombardi on News4, he said Bly wasn't happy to be a Bronco. Said he would explain why on All Access, but we're not privy to get that down in the Springs. We only get the regular news broadcast, not the extra sports stuff they show on Sunday night. Of course Vic might only be referencing this same report we're all talking about.

Kudos to you Shanny, looks like you might have traded for a guy who doesn't want to be here.

[youcandoit1687]

The fluff piece about him talking to Champ from the beginning of the process makes it sound like he was ecstatic to be here. Very conflicting reports, both are biased so knowing who to believe is hard...

[BigPlayShay]

The link went to the blog of the Skins beat writer for the Washington Post, you're looking for any reason to dismiss what was said if you're skeptical of a blog posting by a team's beat writer.

Just watched Vic Lombardi on News4, he said Bly wasn't happy to be a Bronco. Said he would explain why on All Access, but we're not privy to get that down in the Springs. We only get the regular news broadcast, not the extra sports stuff they show on Sunday night. Of course Vic might only be referencing this same report we're all talking about.

Kudos to you Shanny, looks like you might have traded for a guy who doesn't want to be here.

They basically reported what was in the blog. Nothing new was said.

[NFLBRONCO]

The link went to the blog of the Skins beat writer for the Washington Post, you're looking for any reason to dismiss what was said if you're skeptical of a blog posting by a team's beat writer.

Just watched Vic Lombardi on News4, he said Bly wasn't happy to be a Bronco. Said he would explain why on All Access, but we're not privy to get that down in the Springs. We only get the regular news broadcast, not the extra sports stuff they show on Sunday night. Of course Vic might only be referencing this same report we're all talking about.

Kudos to you Shanny, looks like you might have traded for a guy who doesn't want to be here.


I watched it and the said, he was unhappy because he thinking going to Wash and get a big deal. Sounded like Denver wasn't going to redo his deal my guess is they are waiting to see if we land either Graham or Kerney maybe. Give him a few days he will be ok with things. They said, Green wanted too much. Travis Henry or McGahee still options but, if Green was too expensive won't Henry be as well?

[Sassy]

Henry...staying another night?

Running back Travis Henry, released by the Titans on Saturday, is spending a second night in Denver as negotiations heat up with the Denver Broncos.

“Travis is going to stay another night, and we expect to talk more [Sunday night] and again in the morning,” Henry’s agent, Hadley Englehard said.

Henry was let go by the Titans after the team did not want to pay an $8 million roster bonus and could not work out a new contract extension with him. Other teams are also negotiating and interested in obtaining Henry. Those include the Oakland Raiders, Green Bay Packers and New York Jets.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

I watched it and the said, he was unhappy because he thinking going to Wash and get a big deal. Sounded like Denver wasn't going to redo his deal my guess is they are waiting to see if we land either Graham or Kerney maybe. Give him a few days he will be ok with things. They said, Green wanted too much. Travis Henry or McGahee still options but, if Green was too expensive won't Henry be as well?

Thanks. I still can't believe Denver hasn't re-done his deal, knocking down that $4.2M cap figure that he's got would be nice.

Also good to see that Henry is staying another night.

[NFLBRONCO]

Henry...staying another night?

Running back Travis Henry, released by the Titans on Saturday, is spending a second night in Denver as negotiations heat up with the Denver Broncos.

“Travis is going to stay another night, and we expect to talk more [Sunday night] and again in the morning,” Henry’s agent, Hadley Englehard said.

Henry was let go by the Titans after the team did not want to pay an $8 million roster bonus and could not work out a new contract extension with him. Other teams are also negotiating and interested in obtaining Henry. Those include the Oakland Raiders, Green Bay Packers and New York Jets.

Maybe they get a deal done but, if Green was too pricey got to expect Henry will want similar numbers. We will see if we come to terms or not.

[Vegas_Bronco]

I'm not convinced we are going to trade Bly. Denver will wait through the year and see how his performance is and then extend or resign him. His cap number looks pretty good after seeing Clements contract. If we trade him it will be to someone with a just plain stupid offer!

[Atlas]

I'm not convinced we are going to trade Bly. Denver will wait through the year and see how his performance is and then extend or resign him. His cap number looks pretty good after seeing Clements contract. If we trade him it will be to someone with a just plain stupid offer!

He might be great trade bait if Denver wants to move up. Who knows. Nothing is setteled yet. I would think Shanny would have plans to extend him if he didn't want to keep his options open.

[rbackfactory80]

Cool, if he wants to be a skin ship him off to Oakland or Arizona.

[bronco militia]

Bly in waiting game to get deal extended
By Bill Williamson
Denver Post Staff Writer
Article Last Updated: 03/04/2007 11:35:05 PM MST


Partly because they are trying to pursue free agents, the Broncos don't have any immediate plans to extend the contract of newly acquired cornerback Dré Bly.

And there are reports Bly is not pleased. Bly has one year remaining on his contract and is set to make $4.2 million. He was acquired Friday along with a sixth-round draft choice from the Detroit Lions for running back Tatum Bell, offensive tackle George Foster and a fifth-round pick.

It appears the Broncos and Bly would like to get a deal done, but that could take time. The Washington Post reported Bly wanted to go to the Redskins because he is from Virginia, and that the Redskins were ready to give him an extension immediately after a trade.

The Washington Post also reported the Redskins still could try to trade for Bly. Denver has worked with the Redskins in the past, and the Redskins have some players, including cornerback Shawn Springs and running back Ladell Betts, who could attract interest from other teams.

But Bly likely will play for Denver this year even if there is no contract extension.

http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_5357077

[Garcia Bronco]

Having grown up in the same town as Bly...wanting to go play for the Skins because he is from Virginia is a bunch of bull****. It's a 4-5 drive to chesapeake from NOVA. LMAO......the washington post...like usual...is FOS.

[BroncoBuff]

Reggie White is the only guy who ever actually WANTED to go to Green Bay, but they've managed to have a few guys play very well for the Packers.

This is ALL about money, and what he saw Clements makes hours after the trade went down.

[Orange_Beard]

He should retire.

[Ratboy]

If Bly comes out and says it himself, than i say we trade him to move up in the draft.

[Ratboy]

I wouldn't be surprised if we ended up trading #21, Bly and another pick to move up into the top 10.

[broncswin]

Maybe they get a deal done but, if Green was too pricey got to expect Henry will want similar numbers. We will see if we come to terms or not.

Maybe Denver thinks It was too much money for Green, but that doesn't automatically mean it is too much money for Henry:wiggle: . I don't think they were real impressed with Green and knew Henry was going to become available. We are going to sign Henry today!!:D

[Ratboy]

I would send Dre Bly + 21st to Buffalo for Willis McGahee + 12.

[Ratboy]

Henry is 1 postive drug test away from a year suspension, screw him.

[broncswin]

If Shanny didn't like Portis, he will really f###ing hate McGahee!!

[watermock]

Why is everyone knobbing Henry? He's average and has two strikes. Players are way too big for their britches in many sports. It's not Denver's fault Washington destroyed it's cap and has few draft picks.

What was Wash going to offer? A Philly steak sandwich and a smoothie? He was on the market and noone made Bly sign! He's just pulling this stunt to get more money in a new contract.

[Requiem]

I think Denver is smart enough to realize that Bly being a one year rental would make a mistake. I don't see why people are all getting nervous and their panties in a bunch.

Denver's looking to get Henry, Graham and Kerney as key free agent signings. They'd love them all, but realistically they can't. Until they finalize deals with their top targets (if they finalize them) - they won't be looking to start negotiating a contract with Bly.

I guess I'm a little nervous too because of what Clements got, but I wouldn't expect a huge deal for Bly. Maybe an extension of three to four years. I'd try and keep him happy though, because if he isn't here next year and Denver can't re-sign Foxworth or Paymah.

Well, now we're back to square one.

Ay, maybe I see why people are worried.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

http://www.extremeskins.com/forums/showthread.php?t=192070&page=1&pp=15

Fun stuff. Guys who think the older, injury prone Springs is worth more than Bly, people who completely overrate Betts' value after one good season, and those who want nothing to do with Denver when it comes to trades.

[Requiem]

Have to love that realistic Skins fan who said that "We should just stay away from anything Denver related."

His butthole is sore!

[Drek]

I think Denver is smart enough to realize that Bly being a one year rental would make a mistake. I don't see why people are all getting nervous and their panties in a bunch.

Denver's looking to get Henry, Graham and Kerney as key free agent signings. They'd love them all, but realistically they can't. Until they finalize deals with their top targets (if they finalize them) - they won't be looking to start negotiating a contract with Bly.

I guess I'm a little nervous too because of what Clements got, but I wouldn't expect a huge deal for Bly. Maybe an extension of three to four years. I'd try and keep him happy though, because if he isn't here next year and Denver can't re-sign Foxworth or Paymah.

Well, now we're back to square one.

Ay, maybe I see why people are worried.

Foxworth and Paymah are RFAs next year, they won't be going anywhere unless someone wants to comp us a first round pick.

[SoCalBronco]

http://www.extremeskins.com/forums/showthread.php?t=192070&page=1&pp=15

Fun stuff. Guys who think the older, injury prone Springs is worth more than Bly, people who completely overrate Betts' value after one good season, and those who want nothing to do with Denver when it comes to trades.

This was one of the posts from that thread that I found interesting to say the least:

Check this out, right from Bly, I found this on a Broncos message board:

I was listening to the Duke-UNC game on XM... since XM provides the home team's feed, I was listening to the UNC announcers... at halftime, they interviewed Bly,who obviously was at the Game... HE is a former tarheel... They asked him about things...

He said it's been a hectic/busy/interesting week... that he was a Bronco. Started off great... The next question: So, how do you feel about the trade and your thoughts about the broncos... This is where things got starnge...

Bly said he couldn't respond and answer that b/c it's free agency and all that and then made a point of adding... I LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING SOME TEAM GET TO THE SUPER BOWL! What? eh? huh?

Why make a point of saying "some" team? Why not say I am pumped to help Denver get to the Super Bowl? Why say he couldn't comment b/c it was free agency? Strange?

Any thoughts?

http://forums.denverbroncos.com/sho...91&page=5&pp=15

[Requiem]

Foxworth and Paymah are RFAs next year, they won't be going anywhere unless someone wants to comp us a first round pick.

They are? How do you know this Mr. Drek!?

[watermock]

Fine, swap their high first rounder and we give them back their 08 4th. We turn Bly into AD.

[BroncoBuff]

Any thoughts?

See Post #60, above.

[watermock]

Fox and Paymah are only in their third years.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

They are? How do you know this Mr. Drek!?

I hope that's sarcasm

[Ratboy]

Bye Bye Bly

[Garcia Bronco]

This was one of the posts from that thread that I found interesting to say the least:

Check this out, right from Bly, I found this on a Broncos message board:

I was listening to the Duke-UNC game on XM... since XM provides the home team's feed, I was listening to the UNC announcers... at halftime, they interviewed Bly,who obviously was at the Game... HE is a former tarheel... They asked him about things...

He said it's been a hectic/busy/interesting week... that he was a Bronco. Started off great... The next question: So, how do you feel about the trade and your thoughts about the broncos... This is where things got starnge...

Bly said he couldn't respond and answer that b/c it's free agency and all that and then made a point of adding... I LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING SOME TEAM GET TO THE SUPER BOWL! What? eh? huh?

Why make a point of saying "some" team? Why not say I am pumped to help Denver get to the Super Bowl? Why say he couldn't comment b/c it was free agency? Strange?

Any thoughts?

http://forums.denverbroncos.com/sho...91&page=5&pp=15


To me, it reads he just doesn't know what's going to happen.

[chaz]

Fine, swap their high first rounder and we give them back their 08 4th. We turn Bly into AD.

yet another way we conive to move up for AD....i dont know how much more my heart can take...sure sounds good to me though

[Drek]

They are? How do you know this Mr. Drek!?

Because, get this, its the NFL rules.

rookies signed to three year deals are RFAs at the end of their contracts, its why the vast majority of middle rounders sign 3 year deals, it gives the team leverage for a 4th season or compensation if they walk. Pretty much every RFA you ever hear about is from a similar situation.

[chaz]

i hope dre bly is not really the little bitch he is starting to look like.

[cambrad8085]

Should have traded for Boss Bailey.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Because, get this, its the NFL rules.

rookies signed to three year deals are RFAs at the end of their contracts, its why the vast majority of middle rounders sign 3 year deals, it gives the team leverage for a 4th season or compensation if they walk. Pretty much every RFA you ever hear about is from a similar situation.

I believe the new CBA limits 3rd round picks and lower to 3-year deals, unlike the previous one where it was the norm but you occasionally had guys sign for longer.

[SouthStndJunkie]

From John Clayton on ESPN Insider:

Bly not happy guy:

The Broncos definitely have problems with cornerback Dre Bly. While he was being shopped by the Lions, the Redskins, Saints and Broncos wanted him. The Redskins were willing to restructure his contract in a way he liked. Unfortunately for Bly, this wasn't free agency. He's upset with the Broncos and won't restructure his contract for them. The Broncos will be reluctant to trade him and the chance might be more difficult because the Redskins signed Fred Smoot to help out at cornerback. Bly may be stuck in Denver. Although the Broncos did call to set up a visit from Cardinals cornerback David Macklin

[Rascal]

This is getting ugly. Was Bly a pain in the ass in Detroit?

[NFLBRONCO]

Trade Bly for a pick

[Rascal]

Denver can't afford to keep rolling over for players that don't like how things are going or went.

[SureShot]

I think of it as just an agent doing what he think is best for his client. Relax. Its not like he is holding out.

[SouthStndJunkie]

Force his ass to play here.

Time to play hardball.

[bpc]

Well... we missed the boat on Kerney, why don't we just resign a solid corner opposite of Champ Bailey? Seems like his major beef is that Washington was willing to give him a long term deal and not make him a rent a player for one season.

[SoCalBronco]

Trade Bly for a pick

That's right...MORE PICKS!!!! MORE PICKS DAMMIT!

[Hercules Rockefeller]

You'd think if the Skins could pick up the phone to discuss what they'd be willing to give Dre', Shanny could pick up the phone and ask if he wanted to come to Denver before the deal went down.

[SureShot]

I would think he would want to play next to Champ in a contract year.

[TheDave]

I think of it as just an agent doing what he think is best for his client. Relax. Its not like he is holding out.

At this point, that is my opinion also... Sure he is probably upset about not getting Nate Clemments money but at this point he is just working on a payday

[rovolution]

i cant believe how strange this offseason has been. Why didnt Shanahan atleast call him and ask him if he wanted to come to Denver?

This offseason has really been up and down so far. I really dont know what to make of it yet.

[SureShot]

At this point, that is my opinion also... Sure he is probably upset about not getting Nate Clemments money but at this point he is just working on a payday

I'm upset about not getting Nate Clemments money. Who wouldn't?

[Drek]

i cant believe how strange this offseason has been. Why didnt Shanahan atleast call him and ask him if he wanted to come to Denver?

This offseason has really been up and down so far. I really dont know what to make of it yet.

Seeings how Champ had a conversation with him in which Bly said he was looking forward to playing with us I'd be real surprised if Shanahan wasn't at least in communication at some point.

I think its a case of Washington putting a fat contract on the table while they were in the negotiations with Detroit and now Bly's and his agent are angling for a similar payoff from us.

I'd rather hold firm, one year him (its pretty much all we were going to get out of Foster and Tatum), and extend Foxworth and Paymah when they're RFAs. If Bly wants his big pay day he can earn it next season, otherwise accept a more reasonable deal. We've got Champ and we aren't giving that kind of money to a #2 CB.

If Washington was interested though I'd be all for Bly and #21 to move up to #6. :~ohyah!:

[*WARHORSE*]

Send him to Atlanta for the 10th pick. He should fit right in there if he really doesnt want to play here.

Hello Landry.

[eddie mac]

Fvck this cry-baby piece of ****. Ashley Lelie Mark II.

[-Slap-]

I wouldn't mind flipping Bly as part of a package to move up to 6, but I know little Danny Snyder loves the limelight too much to pass up having a top ten pick on draft weekend.

[i4jelway7]

This is getting ugly. Was Bly a pain in the ass in Detroit?


fvck Bly... Shanny get a deal done w/ the skins.. you would think they would be getting tired of getting raped by us but oh well... give him what he wants send his sorry ass to Washington.. see how he really likes it... hey d*ckhead ask Champ what it was like playin for washington.. champ HATED it.. ask him how glad he was to come to DENVER... all this tells me is what I already knew about Dre' he is a classless bum that is simply playing for the money.. send him synders way let him overpay... I'm comfortable w/ Nique playing opposite Champ.. and to answer your question Rascal yes Dre was a problem in Detroit.. remember when he threw Harrington under the bus when the Mooch got fired.. if not here is a link

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2240566

[Dedhed]

There has got to be a way to fleece the Skins here. Bly wants to be in DC, and the Skins wanted bly, the Broncos own Bly. That has to be a perfect recipe to A$$ pound Snyder again.

How about Andre Carter and Adam Archuleta for Bly? Or maybe Bly and #21 for #6. I'd listen to whatever Snyder has to say, at some point he's bound to offer something stupid and Shanahan, with a sly grin, can say "well, I guess I can go for that seeing as Bly really doesn't want to be here in Denver".

[Ratboy]

Dre + 1st + 2nd for #6

would do it for me :)

[ND Bronco Fan]

What picks does Washington have left? Would have to think any deal they do will include Springs.

[eddie mac]

Dre + 1st + 2nd for #6

would do it for me :)


That would give Dre mid 2nd rd value.

[BroncoFiend]

f*** Bly... Shanny get a deal done w/ the skins.. you would think they would be getting tired of getting raped by us but oh well... give him what he wants send his sorry ass to Washington.. see how he really likes it... hey d*ckhead ask Champ what it was like playin for washington.. champ HATED it.. ask him how glad he was to come to DENVER... all this tells me is what I already knew about Dre' he is a classless bum that is simply playing for the money.. send him synders way let him overpay... I'm comfortable w/ Nique playing opposite Champ.. and to answer your question Rascal yes Dre was a problem in Detroit.. remember when he threw Harrington under the bus when the Mooch got fired.. if not here is a link

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2240566

Lets ease up a little bit and see how things play out. It's hard to fault a guy for wanting financial security in the form of a multi-year deal. From what I've heard, the Broncos may very well give him just that but they just need to get the FAs in that they want first.

News sources blow things like this up way bigger than they are. I think if he stays here, once he starts playing with Champ opposite him, he'll get happy real fast.

[fontaine]

Let's not get carried away.

There would be legitimate concerns if the Skins were still looking for a CB, but they signed Smoot so any offer they had to Bly in terms of a new contract via trade is long OFF the table.

The FO and Bly's agent are just calling each other's bluff. The agent wants more money (pr'bly matching what the skins offered) and the FO knows the skins can't do jack about it because Bly is under contract with the Broncos and they already signed Smooty.

Given the market conditions it was always going to be tough to sign this guy to an extension, luckily we don't need the salary cap space so they could let him play for $4.2million this year, franchise his azz next year if need be.

[-Slap-]

For that matter, we could let him walk after this year. Lots of good CBs in the draft this year we can develop. I would fine with grabbing the best one that drops to 70 or 85.

[ludo21]

I cant believe he would blow a legit opportunity to win the SB for a few million more.

IDIOT!! Get a deal done and get this douche off the team.

[footstepsfrom#27]

News sources blow things like this up way bigger than they are. I think if he stays here, once he starts playing with Champ opposite him, he'll get happy real fast.
Or maybe the opposite happens. Maybe he realizes he's going from the guy to stay away from to the guy opposite Champ with a target painted on his back and he figures after a year of working twice as hard for less glory he'll have lost market value. If I was his agent that might be exactly what I'd be telling him. Team's are going to throw at somebody and it won't be Champ.

[Steve Sewell]

I think this whole thing revolves around the fact that he'd be a #1 corner on most other teams, making #1 corner money. He knows that Denver has pulled a fast one here...they trade their marginal players away to Detroit, and land a #1 cornerback on his old contract to be their #2 cornerback for a season. This is holding him up from getting that fat contract that he could on any other team. Come to think of it, I'd be kinda pissed too if I were in his situation.

[Steve Sewell]

I cant believe he would blow a legit opportunity to win the SB for a few million more.

IDIOT!! Get a deal done and get this douche off the team.

When will people get it through their heads that this is a business and it's all about the almighty dollar? Championships are great but you got to make your money while you can!

[chaz]

Dre + 1st + 2nd for #6

would do it for me :)

maybe get them to throw in archuleta? hes just a bench player in DC right? ;)

[Hercules Rockefeller]

There's a reason Archuleta is on the bench in DC, he flat-out sucks

[fontaine]

There's a reason Archuleta is on the bench in DC, he flat-out sucks

I agree. We don't need a one dimensional safety who's a liability in coverage and a concussion case to boot with a draft rich in safeties.

What's more is that he's due $5 Million in a bonus the next few days!

After the way they treated him and benched him there is no way in hell he's going to restructure for them. Also Springs' cap charge this season is $7.5 million. I'm going to love watching the bloodletting in DC this offseason.

[DarkHorse]

What a great off season we're having.


Trade for a DT that is on his last leg

Trade for a DB that doesn't want to play here

Overpay for a good RB that is on the edge of a 1 year vacation.


We're on a freaking roll - the fact that we have Cutler keeps me in good spirits about next year, but i'm seriously not seeing what direction we're going in here.

Shanny puts an emphasis on getting back to being a Top 5 offense and we're going to get there by bringing in Travis Henry?

[Steve Sewell]

What a great off season we're having.


Trade for a DT that is on his last leg

Trade for a DB that doesn't want to play here

Overpay for a good RB that is on the edge of a 1 year vacation.


We're on a freaking roll - the fact that we have Cutler keeps me in good spirits about next year, but i'm seriously not seeing what direction we're going in here.

Shanny puts an emphasis on getting back to being a Top 5 offense and we're going to get there by bringing in Travis Henry?

Travis Henry is going to be a stud in our offensive system...he's the best back we've had since Clinton Portis.

[shakenbake]

I would not want to play opposite Champ in a contract year. You know you are going to get picked on. But Bly needs to quite crying, he wasn't a free agent. Therefore, he doesn't get to choose where he plays, end of story.

[Drek]

What a great off season we're having.


Trade for a DT that is on his last leg

Trade for a DB that doesn't want to play here

Overpay for a good RB that is on the edge of a 1 year vacation.


We're on a freaking roll - the fact that we have Cutler keeps me in good spirits about next year, but i'm seriously not seeing what direction we're going in here.

Shanny puts an emphasis on getting back to being a Top 5 offense and we're going to get there by bringing in Travis Henry?

This from a person sporting an avatar of the one good thing Stephen Alexander has done in two years as a Bronco.

Henry is a perfect fit for our running system and in every season he's been a full time starter he's averaged over 4 yards per carry. He was a very good signing.

Wilkinson is on a dirt contract compared to what FA DTs are landing, only cost us a later 6th round pick, and is the ideal run stopper this team has been missing on first and second downs. If he was brought in to be the answer opposite Warren a la the big contracts given to Gardener, McGlockton, Dalton, etc. I'd be worried but the FO was pretty open with the fact that they were bringing Wilkinson in to be a role player.

And it isn't a DB who doesn't want to be here, its CB who's pro bowled in three of the last four years in exchange for a 10 carry a game back, an OT who can't block, and moving down 13 spots on the second day. Bly is a very talented player and he wants to be paid like one. He and his agent are just posturing for a contract extension, which I'm sure Denver will address after the major FA signings are out of the way.

We also added a big 320 pound OG with starting experience, good strength, and capable pulling and trapping skills. He doesn't have quite the mobility we typically ask our OGs to have but on a one year deal he makes great competition with Kuper and Myers for the starting RG spot.

Along with that we've added a FB who is a quality special teamer, something we need more of.

Overall I think we've been much more agressive and productive than anyone should have expected, if we land Graham this has been one hell of a big off-season and thats before even getting to the '07 draft where we hold four first day picks.

[Steve Sewell]

Yeah, this dude sucks:

http://www.youtube.com/share?v=Ld-KMwGybLg&embed=1

[DarkHorse]

This from a person sporting an avatar of the one good thing Stephen Alexander has done in two years as a Bronco.

Henry is a perfect fit for our running system and in every season he's been a full time starter he's averaged over 4 yards per carry. He was a very good signing.

Wilkinson is on a dirt contract compared to what FA DTs are landing, only cost us a later 6th round pick, and is the ideal run stopper this team has been missing on first and second downs. If he was brought in to be the answer opposite Warren a la the big contracts given to Gardener, McGlockton, Dalton, etc. I'd be worried but the FO was pretty open with the fact that they were bringing Wilkinson in to be a role player.

And it isn't a DB who doesn't want to be here, its CB who's pro bowled in three of the last four years in exchange for a 10 carry a game back, an OT who can't block, and moving down 13 spots on the second day. Bly is a very talented player and he wants to be paid like one. He and his agent are just posturing for a contract extension, which I'm sure Denver will address after the major FA signings are out of the way.

We also added a big 320 pound OG with starting experience, good strength, and capable pulling and trapping skills. He doesn't have quite the mobility we typically ask our OGs to have but on a one year deal he makes great competition with Kuper and Myers for the starting RG spot.

Along with that we've added a FB who is a quality special teamer, something we need more of.

Overall I think we've been much more agressive and productive than anyone should have expected, if we land Graham this has been one hell of a big off-season and thats before even getting to the '07 draft where we hold four first day picks.


I didn't choose the avatar bro - I could care less what picture is under my name. If you would like i'll take the time to actually go in and change it to something more 'meaningful'.

So we brought in some guys - and?

Any RB we would have brought in would have been "perfect" for our system - that's the way it goes once the bandwagon starts rolling and people guzzle the kool-aid.

Sure, he'll do fine here, certainly he's an upgrade over Tatum Bell. Personally I wouldn't have given him the signing bonus that he got - I would rather have pony'd up and drafted a back in the first rnd. Shanny and the FO have pretty much lost their touch for finding late round gems - and that's not a bust on their talent evaluation, it's just that they are stuck in this mode where they feel 1 back can't get the job done. I disagree, there are plenty of teams that rock 1 back and they do well on crappy teams ie KC for one. If we would stick to 1 back and let them get on a roll i'd be happy, but to pay out 12 million for a back that is going to split time? Whatever.

What has changed so much from the time we used to run 1 back to the game today? IMO not enough has changed to warrant moving away from what we did best, run the football. Hard to get into a groove when you're constantly being spotted.

As far as him being the best back since Portis - that's not saying much. Who have we had since then that really opened your eyes?