The Transition Year Begins

[epicSocialism4tw]

Mike Shanahan never rebuilds. In his tenure as coach, we have seen transition years from time to time. Welcome to a Broncos Transition Year.

Under Shanahan, the Offense is Being Retooled...

It starts under center.
Jay Cutler enters year 2. Cutler showed his delicate touch and his rifle arm in every game he played last season. It's evident that the tools are there for Jay to become one of the top QB's in the NFL. As expected, the rook made some ill-advised throws and neglected to come through in a couple of different pressure-laden circumstances that could have made the difference between making and missing the playoffs. I do think it is unfair to lay the entire burden of those shortcomings on him, as the Broncos defense continued to fail the team late in the season. Jay was surprisingly efficent and showed a propensity for the big play. He did not show the ability to master the scramble as we expected to see from him due to his reliance on and execution of it in college. Hopefully, he will get the offense down enough to where he can trust his team and himself enough to move around in and out of the pocket more. This isnt the year that we should expect the playbook to click for Jay, but he should show us glimpses at what our offense will look like when he does become a master of the playbook, and the team's leader on the field.

In the Trench
There are a couple of significant changes here. The Broncos relieved themselves of the burden that has been George Foster. The chronic underachiever and the biggest liability on the offensive line will not be back, and will be replaced by one of probably three guys: Adam Meadows, Erik Pears, or rookie Ryan Harris. I think that that position is up for grabs and will come down to the player who can excel in pass pro. The offense has changed a bit in that it's strength will likely be in the intermediate passing game. Another significant change is at guard where the Broncos let Cooper Carslile find a job elsewhere and have 2nd year player Chris Kuper and practice squad vet Myers waiting in the wings. Ben Hamilton will play the other guard, Tom Nalen will be back to play center, and veteran Matt Lepsis will rejoin the squad after suffering a ligament tear last season. The offensive line has been infused by new talent over the past three seasons and is primed to take a tangible step forward this season. Kuper has the tools to really shine as a pulling guard and carries the athleticism of a premier Bronco offensive lineman. If Kuper wins the job, he will have won over some stiff competition. Myers and rookie Harris could also end up in Carslile's old spot. I am looking forward to seeing how Ryan Harris plays in Denver. I think that he might just be the surprise of the draft. He comes from a pro style offense, is intelligent, and is technically refined enough to be effective in both phases of the Denver offense, especially pass pro. If he is as good at staying square and active against speed edge rushers in the pros as he was in college, he'll start over Meadows/Pears this year at RT. This kid has a real future in Denver. Its up to him as to how good he wants to be. He comes in here with an advantage that few rookies have in having performed for years in a pro-style offense that mirrors that of Denver. Denver also brings in a proven vet that can block in both phases and catch the ball very well in Dan Graham. He will do the little things that this team hasnt seen at the position in years, and should help to shore up the edge in pass and run blocking. He could be the most significant addition to the Broncos' offense this season because of the proficient versatility that he will provide.

Skills
Travis Henry provides the biggest boost to the offensive skill positions. He is a natural zone blocking back who is coming off of an exceptional season at Tennessee where he looked flat out dominant at times. Vince Young received much of the praise for the turnaround of the franchise last season, but Henry was the heart of it. All I can say here is thank goodness that we have a real back for this offense. He is a great one-cut-go back with great vision and toughness. He will be the best back here since TD left. He can catch the ball well and is a decent pass blocker. His addition will be the biggest boost to the offense of any single skill player. Dan Graham will also have a significant role as a skill player. Cutler loves to dump the ball over the linebackers, and that's where Graham and Sheffler should make their living. Javon Walker is arguably the best player at any position on the team, and he should be fully recovered and ready to go. Brandon Marshall showed flashes of brilliance last season and should be more familiar with both Cutler and the offense. If he avoids the sophomore slump, his role will be more significant. I would expect him to win the #2 WR spot next to Walker. Rod Smith is losing ground quickly, but who wouldnt want Rod as a #3? He'll show up to camp ready and will battle for catches all season. If his body holds up, he'll get alot of passes thrown his way on little slants and curls.

[bronco militia]

2006 was a transition year....

super bowl or bust baby!

[BlaK-Argentina]

Skills
Javon Walker is arguably the best player at any position on the team, and he should be fully recovered and ready to go.

Nice read, though I have to say that Champ is without a doubt the best player on our team. Javon is second though, and I expect a HUGE season from him.

I think Cutler will be ready, and at least have a season similar to Jake's 2004. (lot's of big plays, but quite a few mistakes as well)

Travis Henry... man, I'm excited about him! I want to see what he does in Denver's system. 1700 yards is not out of the question.

[TheChamp24]

I think this team may have too many questions to be a Super Bowl contender this year, but we'll see. I honestly think it might take another year before we can make another serious run at the Super Bowl. Give the new guys a season in Denver, Cutler a full year at starter, let the rookies develop, acquire another good LB, but then some guys might not be around in 2008 like Nalen, Lynch and Rod.

[Smiling Assassin27]

Nice read, though I have to say that Champ is without a doubt the best player on our team. Javon is second though, and I expect a HUGE season from him.

I think Cutler will be ready, and at least have a season similar to Jake's 2004. (lot's of big plays, but quite a few mistakes as well)

Travis Henry... man, I'm excited about him! I want to see what he does in Denver's system. 1700 yards is not out of the question.

the problem will not be javon's knee but could be between his ears. after watching d-will die and realize that bullets probably sped right by him, he may have mental issues.

[Beantown Bronco]

Javon Walker is arguably the best player at any position on offense on the team

Fixed it (hopefully the author just forgot about Champ and didn't knowingly say Javon was better). Otherwise, I really liked the post.

[Odysseus]

This the year when the Broncos are going to live or die on trenches.

The OL has to give Jay more time and make holes for the running back...period.

The DL has to hold the line on 3rd down and/or stop laying down under pressure...period. Everything else that happens is going to key off of that.

If they don't fix their lines right now things cannot improve later.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The Defense Recovers from Tragedy, and Moves on From the Al Era...

It Aint the Same Without Darrent
We will miss Darrent Williams. He was a great lockerroom guy, and a very talented starter. Hopefully, his teammates will honor him somehow this season. The BBT spent some dough replacing Darrent with a Darrent look-alike in Dre Bly. These two guys have very similar styles. Look for Bly to take the same types of gambles that Darrent did, and to ballhawk in the secondary like Champ. Darrent was very good in run support and a quality blitzer. I'm not sure that Bly will be able to do those things as well as Darrent. The only upgrade that he can provide us over Darrent is the ability to play the #2 WR tight off of the line and to give the QB some difficult looks when pressured. #2 WR's gave us fits in big games last year. Can Bly do things better? I would expect about the same result. I love Bly's attitude and leadership though. He will be a good guy to have in an already great defensive backfield as far as leadership and personality go. Foxworth will play nickel back, giving the Broncos a great nickel package. Ferguson will be back from injury to play FS next to all-pro Lynch who is coming off of an excellent season.

It Aint the Same Without Big Al
Al Wilson was a warrior for this franchise. He was arguably the best two-phase backer in the league. His leadership and talent will be maybe the biggest loss for the Broncos this season. DJ Williams will now become the leader and the MLB of the backer unit, and we will welcome a newcomer at his old spot. Ian Gold will be back, and he will bring his speed and playmaking ability to the unit. Overall, it is really hard to know what to expect from this unit, because it's really going to have quite a different look. I dont expect it to improve, though. The loss of Al Wilson is a pretty big deal.

[cmhargrove]

Nice read, though I have to say that Champ is without a doubt the best player on our team. Javon is second though, and I expect a HUGE season from him.

I think Cutler will be ready, and at least have a season similar to Jake's 2004. (lot's of big plays, but quite a few mistakes as well)

Travis Henry... man, I'm excited about him! I want to see what he does in Denver's system. 1700 yards is not out of the question.

I believe the Javon comments related to skill players on the offense (WRs, TEs, and RBs).

Good article, this should be posted on the front page of OrangeMane instead of "The Broncos Hire Jim Bates as Defensive Coordinator." That one's getting a little dusty...

[Jens1893]

Llama, clear out your inbox.

[kmartin575]

You better hope this isn't a transition year because over half of your starters are over 30 or very close to it. It's super bowl this year or next or not for another 4 or 5 years for you guys.

[Jens1893]

You better hope this isn't a transition year because over half of your starters are over 30 or very close to it. It's super bowl this year or next or not for another 4 or 5 years for you guys.

Lynch and Nalen are the only starters who are gonna retire within the next 2 years and we have Nalen´s replacement in either Eslinger or Hamilton already. We also have a very nice group of younger players who should be here for the foreseeable future.

[kmartin575]

Lynch and Nalen are the only starters who are gonna retire within the next 2 years and we have Nalen´s replacement in either Eslinger or Hamilton already. We also have a very nice group of younger players who should be here for the foreseeable future.

Rod Smith?

Even if a player isn't going to retire as he gets older his skills are going to decline.

Within about a year and a half or so both of Denver's corners will be over 30. Nick Ferguson is about 33. Ian Gold will be 30 soon. Daniel Graham will be 30 soon. Matt Lepsis can't have much left in his tank. Warren will be 30 soon. Adam Meadows is about 33.

Point is, Denver is just about the oldest team in the division.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Boon or Bust
Any dedicated Bronco fan knows what has been the achilles heel of the team since Elway left the turf. The defensive line has been a mix-n-match bunch of retreads that come and go like a McDonald's cashier crew. The line has not generated any sort of pass rush in years and has even failed at it's main duty as a gap-maintinance unit. There are some decent players on the line, but the overall unit has been ineffective and has been out executed by nearly every offensive line in the league, and especially under pressure late in games. The BBT finally addressed this issue this offseason by spending considerable draft resources on players that fit the new defensive scheme. Rookies Moss, Crowder, and Thomas are all super talented players and proven college performers. The hope of any postseason improvement rests in the bellies of these young men. Marcus Thomas should enter camp as the favorite to supplant veteran newcomer Alvin McKinley at DT opposite Gerard Warren. Thomas is a Warren Sapp starter kit with a Bob Marley rap sheet. Thomas is fast off of the snap, has quicker feet than most NFL DT's and is great in pursuit. He's patient, uses angles well, and tackles fiercely. He has arguably the best skill set of any Bronco rookie. Jarvis Moss is a unique talent, and should be ready to compete with Kenard Lang at DE. He'll be the fastest player on the line and has a burst that is rare. Tim Crowder could be the rookie that surprises us this season and earns the starting job opposite Ekuban. Crowder is a better two-phase player than Moss and is another skilled and fast end with good instincts. Crowder reminds me alot of Ekuban, actually. Ekuban is coming off of a year where I think he was the best player on the line. Gerard Warren should be healed up and ready to play up to his nickname. He quit on the team at times last season, but I understand how badly a severe toe injury could hamper an athletic DT like Warren. The wild card this season is Dumervil. He proved to be the best pass rusher on the team last season, and was really the only playmaker we had on third and long situations. Dumervil is a natural. With experience and training, he could become an unexpected contributor in more ways than he did last season. This season is a big transition year for the line, but it offers Bronco fans much hope. The line is infused with young blue-chip talent and has some hungry old vets in Ekuban and Warren. If a couple of the youngsters prove to be able to contribute, the line will have taken a dramatic step forward and will open up the secondary to really do some damage in the turnover department. If the youngsters do not pan out, this unit is worse than it ever was. The success and legitimacy of the team rests in the performance of this unit. It's definately a boon or bust situation.

[Jens1893]

Rod Smith?

Even if a player isn't going to retire as he gets older his skills are going to decline.

Within about a year and a half or so both of Denver's corners will be over 30. Nick Ferguson is about 33. Ian Gold will be 30 soon. Daniel Graham will be 30 soon. Matt Lepsis can't have much left in his tank. Warren will be 30 soon. Adam Meadows is about 33.

Point is, Denver is just about the oldest team in the division.

I don´t think Rod will start next season and we have a nice, young WR in Brandon Marshall who could develop into a good WR. The only 2 guys I am concerned about in the short term are Lynch and Nalen. The rest should be able to give us another 3-4 years. Especially corners can easily play on a high level until their mid 30s.

Ferguson and Gold are replaceable.

I think we have a nice mix of youth and experience and I don´t think it´s boom or bust this year.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Llama, clear out your inbox.

Okay...it's cleared out.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Good article, this should be posted on the front page of OrangeMane instead of "The Broncos Hire Jim Bates as Defensive Coordinator." That one's getting a little dusty...


Taco's welcome to it. He might want someone to edit it for grammatical errors.

[DivineLegion]

Rod Smith?

Even if a player isn't going to retire as he gets older his skills are going to decline.

Within about a year and a half or so both of Denver's corners will be over 30. Nick Ferguson is about 33. Ian Gold will be 30 soon. Daniel Graham will be 30 soon. Matt Lepsis can't have much left in his tank. Warren will be 30 soon. Adam Meadows is about 33.

Point is, Denver is just about the oldest team in the division.

except if you do the math then the oldest team in the LEAGUE is KC...Bitch:thumbsup:

[Garcia Bronco]

2006 was a transition year....

super bowl or bust baby!

I agree. If we don't win it...or come damn close in the next two seasons, I'll be very disappointed.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

You forgot Holland at OG, Myers has not bee on the practice squad - he has been on the 53 man squad both years. Harris was a liability in college against the speed rushers. Anthony Spencer and LaMarr Woodley this year and Ray Edwards last year plain embarrassed him.

[Popcorn Sutton]

Rod Smith?

Even if a player isn't going to retire as he gets older his skills are going to decline.

Within about a year and a half or so both of Denver's corners will be over 30. Nick Ferguson is about 33. Ian Gold will be 30 soon. Daniel Graham will be 30 soon. Matt Lepsis can't have much left in his tank. Warren will be 30 soon. Adam Meadows is about 33.

Point is, Denver is just about the oldest team in the division.

The oldest team in the division?

Ty Law
Patrick Surtain
Donnie Edwards
Tony Gonzalez
Damon Huard
Eddie Kennison
John Welbourn
Casey Weigman
Brian Waters
Alfonso Boone
Chris Bober
Jason Dunn


All over 30...

[Odysseus]

I agree. If we don't win it...or come damn close in the next two seasons, I'll be very disappointed.

I think you should be a fan of the Lions for a couple of years. You will have renewed gratitude about what you really have. Follow the Colorado Rockies if you want an example in futility.

My greatest fantasy would be to see the Denver Broncos win every single game including the Superbowl. If for nothing else but to never hear another Nick Bonneconte (sp) interview about that perfect season ever again.

[Odysseus]

Ty Law
Patrick Surtain
Donnie Edwards
Tony Gonzalez
Damon Huard
Eddie Kennison
John Welbourn
Casey Weigman
Brian Waters
Alfonso Boone
Chris Bober
Jason Dunn

Just to name a few over 30...

Hilarious!

[Bladerunner]

nice post...

IRG to the transition...Denver did bring in a lot of new people, and the starting squad, particularly on offense, will be quite different than it was at the beginning of last year. I do think that last year was a partial transition year as well, so I'm hoping this squad will come around more quickly than it otherwise would.

Champ is the best player on the team, if you weren't meaning offensively.

Clinton Portis may be better than Henry, but we'll soon see who puts up bigger numbers here.

I doubt Harris makes the starting squad. Pears, Lepsis, Meadows, will likely all be ahead of him. Eslinger isn't looking so swell out in Europa right now. The key to success here is health, we all saw what losing one quality guy like Lepsis did to our line.

I agree with your defensive assessment as well, but would add that the prophesized emergence of Hamza Abdulah is due. We ended up way too thin at safety last season and have only added a rookie UDFA. The safeties are adequate if they stay healthy, but Denver proved not nearly as adept at patching the backfield as New England last season.

[AboveAverage]

Kansas City actually has the oldest team in the NFL, as of the draft. That may have changed though.

[epicSocialism4tw]

You forgot Holland at OG, Myers has not bee on the practice squad - he has been on the 53 man squad both years. Harris was a liability in college against the speed rushers. Anthony Spencer and LaMarr Woodley this year and Ray Edwards last year plain embarrassed him.

You're right, I did forget Holland. I still like Kuper to win the job there.

Ryan Harris' strength is supposed to be pass blocking. I have heard talk about his ability to stay square while moving laterally with quick players. I wouldnt underestimate him in this system. Shanny loves smart linemen with technique and athleticism. Harris might be the best thing going for us in those regards.

[GoHAM]

I doubt Harris makes the starting squad. Pears, Lepsis, Meadows, will likely all be ahead of him. Eslinger isn't looking so swell out in Europa right now. The key to success here is health, we all saw what losing one quality guy like Lepsis did to our line.

I don't see Harris even sniffing the field this year, with the provision that Lepsis, the most underrated LT in the NFL, returns to at least 90% of his former self. With Lepsis healthy I see it as (L to R) Lepsis, Hamilton, Nalen, Kuper, & Pears.

If Lepsis isn't fully recovered I could see it as (L to R) Pears, Hamilton, Nalen, Kuper, & Meadows to start with Harris maybe making an appearance by mid season.

Truthfully it would not surprise me to see Myers win LG over Kuper.

[Rascal]

Another significant change is at guard where the Broncos let Cooper Carslile find a job elsewhere and have 2nd year player Chris Kuper and practice squad vet Myers waiting in the wings.

Actually RG will be decided between Holland and Kuper not Myers.

Myers and Eslinger will compete for a starting position when Nalen calls it good (depending if Hamilton moves over or stays at LG).

Plus Harris won't be anything more then depth this year, so don't expect anything out of him. He was owned repeatedly by Spencer so his pass protection needs some work but the tools are there. Give him 1-2 years at least.

IMO the starting lineup at o-line will be:
Lepsis, Hamilton, Nalen, Kuper/Holland, Pears.

[Rascal]

I don't see Harris even sniffing the field this year, with the provision that Lepsis, the most underrated LT in the NFL, returns to at least 90% of his former self. With Lepsis healthy I see it as (L to R) Lepsis, Hamilton, Nalen, Kuper, & Pears.

If Lepsis isn't fully recovered I could see it as (L to R) Pears, Hamilton, Nalen, Kuper, & Meadows to start with Harris maybe making an appearance by mid season.

Truthfully it would not surprise me to see Myers win LG over Kuper.

Hamilton plays LG. Kuper will be battling Holland at RG.

[Rascal]

Taco's welcome to it. He might want someone to edit it for grammatical errors.

And accuracy.

[broncs2bowl]

i dont care if I didnt read this thread....this is NOT a transition year...i repeat this is NOT a transition year!!

[Rascal]

Rod Smith?

Even if a player isn't going to retire as he gets older his skills are going to decline.

Within about a year and a half or so both of Denver's corners will be over 30. Nick Ferguson is about 33. Ian Gold will be 30 soon. Daniel Graham will be 30 soon. Matt Lepsis can't have much left in his tank. Warren will be 30 soon. Adam Meadows is about 33.

Point is, Denver is just about the oldest team in the division.

The players that will retire or have a declining skill set are:
Rod-replacement found in Marshall
Lynch-S Brandon is probably the replacement
Ferguson-replacement not identified
Nalen-replacement is Hamilton, Eslinger, or Myers
Meadows isn't a starter
Ian Gold probably won't be on the team next year
Lepsis replacement is probably Harris

So the only starters we need to worry about finding replacements are Ferguson and Ian. And I fully expect the Broncos to address LB and S in FA and the draft next year. And Champ at 33 will probably still be the best CB in the league.

BTW, I wouldn't be talking about age concerns if you are a chief fan.

[elsid13]

The players that will retire or have a declining skill set are:
Rod-replacement found in Marshall
Lynch-S Brandon is probably the replacement
Ferguson-replacement not identified
Nalen-replacement is Hamilton, Eslinger, or Myers
Meadows isn't a starter
Ian Gold probably won't be on the team next year
Lepsis replacement is probably Harris

So the only starters we need to worry about finding replacements are Ferguson and Ian. And I fully expect the Broncos to address LB and S in FA and the draft next year. And Champ at 33 will probably still be the best CB in the league.

BTW, I wouldn't be talking about age concerns if you are a chief fan.

I actually believe Pears will slide back over and take the LT spot when Matt goes

[Rascal]

I actually believe Pears will slide back over and take the LT spot when Matt goes

That is probably what will happen, but it's also 2+ years away IMO (at least I hope so).

[elsid13]

That is probably what will happen, but it's also 2+ years away IMO (at least I hope so).

I figure at least 4 more seasons, unless Shanahan can get a good draft pick or two for Matt in season or two.

[epicSocialism4tw]

And accuracy.

Thanks for your input. :thumbsup:

[Rascal]

Thanks for your input. :thumbsup:

glad I can help :)

[epicSocialism4tw]

glad I can help :)

I wrote that whole thing in about 10-15 minutes and forgot completely about Holland. I agree that he will have a shot at the starting position. Shanny likes experience.

[watermock]

This is NOT, I repeat NOT an old team. I don't know why 30 is some magic number.

[ZONA]

I don't know that I would be looking for a replacement for Lynch next year. He played at a very high level last year and will only improve his play once we get some damn pressure on the ball. Lynch is solid at his sport for 2 more years I would say.


Also - I would like to note that most people don't realize how good Henry is going to be for us. That is one sharp cutting, physical, low pads running bad ass right there. I have loved his game from college. You want a guy who can give you tough yards on 3rd and short but not give up his big play ability, it's Henry. Look up the word PRODUCTION in webster's and you will see his picture. :strong:

[Rascal]

I don't know about that Zona, Lynch is huge liability in space and against teams that spread the ball and pass (ala colts).

[Kaylore]

You better hope this isn't a transition year because over half of your starters are over 30 or very close to it. It's super bowl this year or next or not for another 4 or 5 years for you guys.

You're such an idiot. This is one of those myths that our division rival fans have been telling themselves that a closer look reveals it's not true. Unlike the chiefs who've traditionally had the worst depth in the league, we have been grooming replacements for years. This "you're team is old and it will take years to rebuild" is a total joke.

Our o-line will look something like this:

LT - Lepsis (33), Pears (25)
LG - Ben Hamilton (30)
C - Tom Nalen (36) Chris Myers (26) Eslinger (24)
RG - Chris Kuper (25)
RT - Adam Pears (25) Ryan Harris (23) Adam Meadows (33)

30 isn't old for a lineman. Linemen usually go until about 35, and with Harris drafted we are very young and deep at tackle. Hamilton or Myers replaces Nalen when he hangs up the cleats. The average age of our offensive line is 28. When Nalen retires it will fall to 26. So this "you guys are old and screwed doesn't make sense there.

What about the rest? Well our D-line just got a bunch of rookies. Not old there. Our QB is the ripe old age of 24. Brandon Marshal and Javon Walker, our two starting receivers, are 23 and 29. Rod Smith is indeed old, but he's not going to be a starter, so who cares? Danial Graham and Tony Scheffler: 29 and 24 respectively. Champ and Bly: 29 each. Our safeties are older with Lynch at 36 and Ferguson at 33, but we have other young safeties who are going to challenge for the starting spot this year, and if it's a problem we'll draft one.

So really this "the Broncos are old" thing is a bunch of crap. Shanahan has always been good about finding and keeping solid, young depth to push veterans. Essentially the old loses that you've stupidly tried say are about to kill us are:

Lynch, Nalen, Rod Smith, Nick Ferguson.

Sure, they're not scrubs but to suggest they're the key to this team and their leaving will send our team in the tank is just a bunch of crap you're telling yourself. It's going to be funny three years from now when Herm has run your franchise into the ground and We're still a team with depth and talent. Have fun with that.

[watermock]

Noone said Lynch, Nalen or Lepsis were spring chickens. Or Rod. The fact is we have been quietly revising the OL.

You can't do everything at once. Both Lynch and Nalen played at a high level. We needed DL help and some OL help and did both. We also got a young backup QB that is much better than people think. He's lost some confidence. We got Bly to replace the murdered DWill, Graham to be a relatively young blocker/reciever, and Henry, not young, not old either.

We also get the walking wounded back. After a relatively injury free 05 the bug bit us in the ass last year. We get back Lepsis, Fergie, Brandon, Cecil back as well.

We took a rookie crop of DL and Harris. If two of the 4 pan out I'm satisfied. 3 of 4 is great, If we roll quadruple 7's, we hit the jackpot.

[maven]

Mike Shanahan never rebuilds. In his tenure as coach, we have seen transition years from time to time. Welcome to a Broncos Transition Year.

Under Shanahan, the Offense is Being Retooled...

It starts under center.
Jay Cutler enters year 2. Cutler showed his delicate touch and his rifle arm in every game he played last season. It's evident that the tools are there for Jay to become one of the top QB's in the NFL. As expected, the rook made some ill-advised throws and neglected to come through in a couple of different pressure-laden circumstances that could have made the difference between making and missing the playoffs. I do think it is unfair to lay the entire burden of those shortcomings on him, as the Broncos defense continued to fail the team late in the season. Jay was surprisingly efficent and showed a propensity for the big play. He did not show the ability to master the scramble as we expected to see from him due to his reliance on and execution of it in college. Hopefully, he will get the offense down enough to where he can trust his team and himself enough to move around in and out of the pocket more. This isnt the year that we should expect the playbook to click for Jay, but he should show us glimpses at what our offense will look like when he does become a master of the playbook, and the team's leader on the field.

In the Trench
There are a couple of significant changes here. The Broncos relieved themselves of the burden that has been George Foster. The chronic underachiever and the biggest liability on the offensive line will not be back, and will be replaced by one of probably three guys: Adam Meadows, Erik Pears, or rookie Ryan Harris. I think that that position is up for grabs and will come down to the player who can excel in pass pro. The offense has changed a bit in that it's strength will likely be in the intermediate passing game. Another significant change is at guard where the Broncos let Cooper Carslile find a job elsewhere and have 2nd year player Chris Kuper and practice squad vet Myers waiting in the wings. Ben Hamilton will play the other guard, Tom Nalen will be back to play center, and veteran Matt Lepsis will rejoin the squad after suffering a ligament tear last season. The offensive line has been infused by new talent over the past three seasons and is primed to take a tangible step forward this season. Kuper has the tools to really shine as a pulling guard and carries the athleticism of a premier Bronco offensive lineman. If Kuper wins the job, he will have won over some stiff competition. Myers and rookie Harris could also end up in Carslile's old spot. I am looking forward to seeing how Ryan Harris plays in Denver. I think that he might just be the surprise of the draft. He comes from a pro style offense, is intelligent, and is technically refined enough to be effective in both phases of the Denver offense, especially pass pro. If he is as good at staying square and active against speed edge rushers in the pros as he was in college, he'll start over Meadows/Pears this year at RT. This kid has a real future in Denver. Its up to him as to how good he wants to be. He comes in here with an advantage that few rookies have in having performed for years in a pro-style offense that mirrors that of Denver. Denver also brings in a proven vet that can block in both phases and catch the ball very well in Dan Graham. He will do the little things that this team hasnt seen at the position in years, and should help to shore up the edge in pass and run blocking. He could be the most significant addition to the Broncos' offense this season because of the proficient versatility that he will provide.

Skills
Travis Henry provides the biggest boost to the offensive skill positions. He is a natural zone blocking back who is coming off of an exceptional season at Tennessee where he looked flat out dominant at times. Vince Young received much of the praise for the turnaround of the franchise last season, but Henry was the heart of it. All I can say here is thank goodness that we have a real back for this offense. He is a great one-cut-go back with great vision and toughness. He will be the best back here since TD left. He can catch the ball well and is a decent pass blocker. His addition will be the biggest boost to the offense of any single skill player. Dan Graham will also have a significant role as a skill player. Cutler loves to dump the ball over the linebackers, and that's where Graham and Sheffler should make their living. Javon Walker is arguably the best player at any position on the team, and he should be fully recovered and ready to go. Brandon Marshall showed flashes of brilliance last season and should be more familiar with both Cutler and the offense. If he avoids the sophomore slump, his role will be more significant. I would expect him to win the #2 WR spot next to Walker. Rod Smith is losing ground quickly, but who wouldnt want Rod as a #3? He'll show up to camp ready and will battle for catches all season. If his body holds up, he'll get alot of passes thrown his way on little slants and curls.

This thread is 1 year too late. Where have you been the past year? Crying in you Cheerios because Dirk failed the Mavericks vs the Heat?

[GoHAM]

Hamilton plays LG. Kuper will be battling Holland at RG.

Too true!! My left and my right are mixed up. :hitself: I of course was referring to RG as indicated by my original post, although not stated.

You correctly point out that I did forget about Holland. Still I will not be surprised to see Myers start at RG over Holland and Kuper due to additional experience in the system. Although if I had to put money down, I'd have to go with Kuper at RIGHT Guard (not left), as Rascal so eloquently pointed out.

[Kaylore]

Too true!! My left and my right are mixed up. :hitself: I of course was referring to RG as indicated by my original post, although not stated.

You correctly point out that I did forget about Holland. Still I will not be surprised to see Myers start at RG over Holland and Kuper due to additional experience in the system. Although if I had to put money down, I'd have to go with Kuper at RIGHT Guard (not left) as Rascal so eloquently pointed out.
Myers is a Center that is primarily depth at the guard spot. A lot of lineman learn another position (Guard, center, long snapper) to increase their value. I know he wants to play center. It will be an interesting camp and camp is always full of surprises. :)

[azbroncfan]

You better hope this isn't a transition year because over half of your starters are over 30 or very close to it. It's super bowl this year or next or not for another 4 or 5 years for you guys.

KC is in a transition year every year. No QB or OL will make for about 7 wins.

[GoHAM]

Myers is a Center that is primarily depth at the guard spot. A lot of lineman learn another position (Guard, center, long snapper) to increase their value. I know he wants to play center. It will be an interesting camp and camp is always full of surprises. :)

Like I've already stated I believe that Kuper will be starting RG. But at the same time, Myers has made the active roster for (mostly) two seasons now. Meaning that the BBT feel he has value to the scheme we are running. He obviously flashes skills and qualities ideal to what we are trying to accomplish on the O Line.

For now Nalen is the dictator/Emporer of the C spot for obvious reasons... however plans have to be in the works for his eventual replacement and I was under the impression, rightly or wrongly, probably the latter, that Hamilton would slide over to the C position when that time came. At which time the need for a LG will be filled by Myers/Holland/Kuper, provided Eslinger never develops into a worthy replacement at center.

So in response to Kaylore I respond that, if I recall correctly Hamilton was a center at Minn and was drafted as the heir-apparent to Nalen and he turned out to be a decent guard in our system. Myers too is obviously more suited to a center position, but as long as Nails is on the roster, has a better chance at seeing the field on Sundays at a guard than he does at center. A Long-winded response to say that: Yes, Myers is more suited to the center position than at guard. Yet to see him win a guard spot to at least begin the season over Holland and Kuper would not come as the greatest surprise in the world to me.

[GoHAM]

Both lines will definitely be the story of training camp this year!!

I can't wait!!!

[chaz]

Actually RG will be decided between Holland and Kuper not Myers.

Myers and Eslinger will compete for a starting position when Nalen calls it good (depending if Hamilton moves over or stays at LG).


I wouldnt be surprised if myers backs kuper up at RG...he has more experience in the system than holland does and could still move over to C next year....i wouldnt count him out as he just must surprise a few

[Natedogg]

Really nice post. I also think that Sam Brandon's injury was really big for us last year. He does a good job in the "big nickle"

[Traveler]

The following is just conjecture:

Surprise trade will be Hamilton. If the teams efforts to "bulk up" the OL remains a priority, then Hamilton seems like the odd man out. Although he was asked to add weight during the offseason, he already looked maxed out weight wise.

Add the fact that the team spent big free agent dollars on Holland. They aren't paying him millions to sit on the bench. Lastly, the team also want to get kuper into the starting five also.

Something's got to give...

[Odysseus]

The following is just conjecture:

Surprise trade will be Hamilton. If the teams efforts to "bulk up" the OL remains a priority, then Hamilton seems like the odd man out. Although he was asked to add weight during the offseason, he already looked maxed out weight wise.

Add the fact that the team spent big free agent dollars on Holland. They aren't paying him millions to sit on the bench. Lastly, the team also want to get kuper into the starting five also.

Something's got to give...

Interesting. I don't think Hamilton is going anywhere because the Broncos have invested a lot in him as well but you are right there is a lot of pressure to get this OL on a long road.

[Atwater His Ass]

The only way the team would trade Hamilton is if they are sold on Eslinger taking over at Center for Nalen. I have heard, although haven't watched, that Eslinger is having a rough time of it in NFL Europe currently.

I wouldn't expect the team to move Hamilton until next year if Nalen retires and they like Eslinger at the center position.

[Traveler]

The only way the team would trade Hamilton is if they are sold on Eslinger taking over at Center for Nalen. I have heard, although haven't watched, that Eslinger is having a rough time of it in NFL Europe currently.

I wouldn't expect the team to move Hamilton until next year if Nalen retires and they like Eslinger at the center position.

I'd prefer Myers to take over for Nalen when he decides to hang it up. Not good news about Eslinger. And correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't it Hamilton the was consistently getting blown off the LOS last year?

[Atwater His Ass]

I'd prefer Myers to take over for Nalen when he decides to hang it up. Not good news about Eslinger. And correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't it Hamilton the was consistently getting blown off the LOS last year?

I forgot about Myers. So you could be right, depending on how the organization feels they want to go with the center position.

And yes, Hamilton was having some issues controlling at the point last season. But Nalen was as well.

[Traveler]

I forgot about Myers. So you could be right, depending on how the organization feels they want to go with the center position.

And yes, Hamilton was having some issues controlling at the point last season. But Nalen was as well.

Which might indicate a switch to Myers by midseason.

What are your thoughts on the following lineup:


LT-Lepsis LG- Holland C- Myers RG- Kuper RT-Pears

[BroncoInferno]

Hamilton is probably our 2nd best lineman after Nails. One of the best technicians in football. He does have problems at times with big DTs in pass protection, but the good definitely exceeds the bad.

[watermock]

This is stupid, we just gave him a new contract. He graded out higher than Nalen.

Or second, can't remember. I think it was highest.

[Atwater His Ass]

Which might indicate a switch to Myers by midseason.

What are your thoughts on the following lineup:


LT-Lepsis LG- Holland C- Myers RG- Kuper RT-Pears

I still like Hamilton at LG over Holland. I agree with Inferno that the good does out weigh the bad in Hamilton's case. However, I am up for some great competition during camp, but I don't think Holland will beat out Hamilton. He may push Kuper more, although a lot of people are really high on Kuper as well.

I don't think you will see anyone at center other than Nalen barring injury. He may not be the player he was a few years ago, but he's still a top tier center, imo.

Tackle seems to be the biggest question mark for our OL. Will Lepsis be able to come back at 100%? I like Pears, but how will he respond this year? Our depth seems lacking with Meadows (injury prone/age is 33) and Harris (rookie). I also don't see a future LT on our roster. Is it Pears or Harris? Could be, but I'm not sold yet.

[Odysseus]

I like what I am seeing on OL this year. I hope they finally get some push on the running game. People are showing clips of the Travis Henry taking off but what I see on those tapes is a large hole made by the OL.

[2KBack]

I like what I am seeing on OL this year. I hope they finally get some push on the running game. People are showing clips of the Travis Henry taking off but what I see on those tapes is a large hole made by the OL.

I think people are forgetting that when the fabled Denver running attack was at it's best, the O-line was making huge holes and cutback seams, it wasn't just the back running the ball. Those holes have been shrinking the last couple seasons. For Henry, Bell, or any new guy those holes need to be there to succeed. I think the FO has noticed that drop off too, and thats why the o-line shake up. It's one of the hanges I'm really looking foreard to watching.

[TheChamp24]

I just got thinking, that in 4 years or so, Champ might not be able to play CB anymore, but what about him becoming a FS ala Rod Woodson? He isn't afraid of contact, and I'm sure he has the smarts and ability to make the transition, but what does everybody else think?

[Atwater His Ass]

Champ would make a great safety later in his career. He would still have great coverage skills for the position, speed, and his tackling is solid.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Hamilton is probably our 2nd best lineman after Nails. One of the best technicians in football. He does have problems at times with big DTs in pass protection, but the good definitely exceeds the bad.

I thought that Hamilton was the best player on the line for the entire season. He wont be going anywhere.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I think people are forgetting that when the fabled Denver running attack was at it's best, the O-line was making huge holes and cutback seams, it wasn't just the back running the ball. Those holes have been shrinking the last couple seasons. For Henry, Bell, or any new guy those holes need to be there to succeed. I think the FO has noticed that drop off too, and thats why the o-line shake up. It's one of the hanges I'm really looking foreard to watching.

Totally agree.

What many forget about those great Bronco teams in the late 90's is that the offensive line was the best part of the entire team. That team was filled with great players at skill positions and the line outshone them all.

Zimmerman, Schlereth, Nalen, Habib, Jones. Awesome.

That right there is one of the greatest lines in the history of the league.

The Broncos will re-enter the elite class when they shore up the O-line. The reason that I have been so adamant about fixing the defensive line with dominant players before all else is because the defense is closer to being a dominant unit than the offense. All the defense needs is one or two pieces, and that's it. Two solid, two-phase, disruptive playmakers on the interior and this defense is a force.

[Odysseus]

Totally agree.

What many forget about those great Bronco teams in the late 90's is that the offensive line was the best part of the entire team. That team was filled with great players at skill positions and the line outshone them all.

Zimmerman, Schlereth, Nalen, Habib, Jones. Awesome.

That right there is one of the greatest lines in the history of the league.

The Broncos will re-enter the elite class when they shore up the O-line. The reason that I have been so adamant about fixing the defensive line with dominant players before all else is because the defense is closer to being a dominant unit than the offense. All the defense needs is one or two pieces, and that's it. Two solid, two-phase, disruptive playmakers on the interior and this defense is a force.

I think our OL is going to be better than it's been in awhile just because they finally have some experienced rotational guys. I think Cutler is going to get a chance to whip up on some teams.

I think our DL is going to be better than it's been in awhile and finally threatening on being dominant. Our new guys are just rotational. Even if they pop a few plays they truth comes out after the OC starts to account for them.

Our biggest improvement was in Special Teams. Coach O'Brien is going to be huge over last year's manure.

[Drek]

The only way the team would trade Hamilton is if they are sold on Eslinger taking over at Center for Nalen. I have heard, although haven't watched, that Eslinger is having a rough time of it in NFL Europe currently.

I wouldn't expect the team to move Hamilton until next year if Nalen retires and they like Eslinger at the center position.

In Sundquist's recent Q&A he mentioned Eslinger as doing quite well first off when asked about the NFL Europa crew. I think its important to note that its very hard to accurate judge anyone's play in NFLE, especially linemen. Eslinger is not in our system (which is the system he's been in for the past five years) and is in a strange country with new teammates. OL work is very much about system and unit coordination. He doesn't get that over there.

If he's making mental lapses but is showing himself physically capable of handling NFL level DTs thats good enough for me. He won't make mental lapses in our system we just need him to prove that he's got the strength and power to go man to man on 300+ pound DTs.

I think he has a good future, but we're sitting pretty well at C with him and Myers both.

I wouldn't tag this a transition year, but we aren't totally there yet either. We've refitted on the fly by bringing in some veterans who can give immediate contributions and rookies who even as inexperienced players will be an upgrade over the scrubs we sent out last season.

There will be some growing pains as the new locker room jells together and system changes are made (not just on defense, O'Brien will surely change our special teams methods and I wouldn't be surprised if the passing attack takes a big overhaul, flashing back to the late 90's, vertical seam routes from both slot WRs/TEs and all). Thats not so saw we can't be a competitive team next year.

We just have an even brighter future. Our age risks are pretty much restricted at safety and the OL.

The DL just got an infusion of youth and Warren, a big bodied gap filler, could easily play into his mid 30's. The linebackers are being overhauled as it is, to center around DJ. Gold probably doesn't have more than a year or two left on the roster as is. We've got some 20 something veterans to fill gaps for the next couple seasons while we get younger through the draft.

At CB we have two elite starters backed up by two quality guys in their early 20's. I expect Champ to be the best CB well into his mid 30's, he's the single greatest athlete to play the position and has dedication and a cerebral understanding of the game on par with anyone. Bly is probably good for three or four more years.

At RB we have a starter in his mid 20's and a backup who was just a rookie last year and is dedicated to being a Denver Bronco. We'll continue to add cheap youth and develop them at the position, no worries there. Sapp and Johnson are both mid 20's solid FBs, no issues there.

Our WR and TE position is pretty healthy too. Javon is going to make a few pro-bowls in the next couple years, and while Rod is getting old Marshall is very talented. Kircus and Hixon provide young slot receiver types as well. TE is even better off, Graham is a versatile player who I think will be invaluable throughout his contract into his early/mid 30's. Scheffler is still young and a dynamic receiver. Mustard and Trusty give us two guys to develop for one spot, a #3 blocking TE.

At safety we're getting old, I wouldn't be surprised if Ferguson lost his job this year to Brandon or one of the kids. Lynch is still good for another year or two but we need someone to step into that role before too long.

At OL we're looking at similar issues. Lepsis and Nalen are both getting long in the tooth. They're excellent players and likely can give us a couple more good years each, but replacements need to be in line. Thankfully we now have them. Myers and Eslinger are a good duo to vie for center with the other being the interior OL backup until Hamilton moves on. Harris is a talented, athletic OT who should be a good fit for LT if he can keep his weight at 300 and add some strength. As it is we'll likely see two young guys take over starting OL spots in Kuper and Pears this year, so the youth movement is already underway.

We're a middle of the pack team in terms of average age, but its got a very large standard deviation. Lots of old vets with promising young guys stepping into roles. I'd hate to think of where we'd be if it wasn't for the last three drafts, but Shanahan and Sundquist turned our drafting around when we were on the brink and now we've got a bright future ahead of us.

[TheChamp24]

Totally agree.

What many forget about those great Bronco teams in the late 90's is that the offensive line was the best part of the entire team. That team was filled with great players at skill positions and the line outshone them all.

Zimmerman, Schlereth, Nalen, Habib, Jones. Awesome.

That right there is one of the greatest lines in the history of the league.

The Broncos will re-enter the elite class when they shore up the O-line. The reason that I have been so adamant about fixing the defensive line with dominant players before all else is because the defense is closer to being a dominant unit than the offense. All the defense needs is one or two pieces, and that's it. Two solid, two-phase, disruptive playmakers on the interior and this defense is a force.

Yeah, that OL was awesome, amazing holes opened up. I'm starting to feel that our OL is going to get back to that elite level.

Also, I have a question about your sig and avatar. How does it feel to have a huge, gigantic choke artist in your sig and avatar? I mean, he only went 2-13 from the field in a must win game of a series, had more turnovers than field goals and all. Yup, a surefire MVP to me.