Rice wants to end career with Broncos - The Orange Mane

Ballhawk · 05-26-2005, 08:45 PM

Rice wants to end career with Broncos
Associated Press
National Football League News Wire

DENVER -- After years in the spotlight, Jerry Rice wants to enjoy the twilight.

More concerned with having fun than trying to live up to the expectations thrust upon football's greatest receiver, Rice was hungry for a 21st season.

That's why he signed with the Denver Broncos, who aren't rolling out the red carpet, but are simply asking him to come in, try to make the team and, if he does, to help them win a Super Bowl.

"For so many years there was so much pressure on me," Rice said Thursday in a telephone interview with reporters in Denver. "I had to set a certain standard and I still carry on that standard. But I had a lot of weight on my shoulders. I had blinders on. I couldn't hear the crowd. I couldn't hear them chanting my name and I couldn't see little kids in the stands. I was so focused on what I had to do."

The last couple of years, though, he has been more of a role player.

"The ball was not coming my way every down and I'm really enjoying the game and having fun," he said.

Rice, who agreed to a one-year contract with Denver on Wednesday, concedes that at 42, he'll never play at the level that made him the most productive receiver in NFL history. But there are signs things might not be over. Last year, splitting time between Oakland and Seattle, he averaged 14.3 yards a catch, which was only a half-yard less than his career average.

He is still in shape. Can still get open. The legs have lost some of their zip, but his heart certainly hasn't. Many times during his engaging, 30-minute long conversation Thursday, he sounded more like an excited rookie than a grizzled veteran.

"I don't think it really has set in yet," he said. "With everything that is going on, the excitement, is great. ... I'm not sleeping right now. I am working out hard. I'm trying to get myself ready and I can wait to get reacquainted with Mike Shanahan."

Rice will begin working for Shanahan when he reports to a voluntary minicamp next Wednesday.

Shanahan was Rice's offensive coordinator at San Francisco from 1992-94 -- a span that included three playoff berths and one Super Bowl win, the third of Rice's career. Like the other coaches in the league, Shanahan received the e-mail from Rice's agent, Jim Steiner, letting everyone know that the "GOAT" -- Greatest Of All Time -- was available and wanted to play in 2005.

How good might Rice be? Even Shanahan isn't sure of that, which is why he made it clear that no roster spot is guaranteed, a caveat Rice agreed upon without hesitation.

"I don't think you know what anybody can do until they are actually in," Shanahan said. "Being around him enough, I know how dedicated he is and how he takes care of himself and how he played last year. Now, I have a chance to see him firsthand. He will be a plus for our team and hopefully he can still play at the level that can help us win."

Shanahan views the Broncos as a team on the cusp of a championship, and it's why he has spent the offseason plugging a few holes here and there instead of revamping. He doesn't view Rice's presence as a possible distraction, only as a possible help for a team that has missed a productive third and fourth receiver over the past few seasons.

Rice, meanwhile, doesn't want to be the center of attention, wants "to keep this low-key as possible." One of the most-asked questions since his signing is whether he would ask Rod Smith, Denver's all-time leading receiver, for jersey No. 80.

"I'm not going to fight for that jersey," Rice said. "Rod is the guy there and deserves to keep that number."

Smith also will continue to be Denver's No. 1 receiver and it's likely Ashley Lelie will be No. 2.

"He's someone to learn from," Lelie said. "He's been there and done it. He's been doing it at a high level for such a long time.

"If he asked for my number, I'd give it to him."

Really, though, it's not about the number -- or the numbers. Rice has, indeed, already been there and done that.

This is about taking a final lap around the league, and doing it with a team he thinks has a good chance of making it a victory lap.

"It's the enjoyment of it," Rice said. "People walking up to tell me how I bring excitement to their day. I take pride in that, and the competition."

Jason in LA · 05-26-2005, 08:51 PM

If he makes the team he'll get a good send off. I was at the final game at the old Mile High. It was Rice's last game as a Niner. The entire crowd chanted his name as he ran off the field. It was a good jesture. Who knew he'd come back to hurt us the next year with the Raiders?

Think about it like this. Every play he makes, he breaking the records. A Bronco is will be breaking the records for receiving yards, receptions, and TDs. I can go with that.

-Slap- · 05-26-2005, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Rice wants to end career with Broncos

He would just prefer it not end in August.

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:23 PM

I think Rice will get at least 30 grabs this year. If you look at his stats, they are great for his age right now.

Rigs11 · 05-26-2005, 09:26 PM

And all you guys made such a big deal about the number

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

I think Rice will get at least 30 grabs this year. If you look at his stats, they are great for his age right now.

Too many people cite his receptions for last year as if it woud be an indicator for this year. Well, last year, against some of the worse defenses around and with a great offense he catched a grand total of how many balls in the last 4 games?

Zero. In the playoff game, against the lambs he caught _nothing_, not even a cold. So I would not be so quick to base any predictions on his total catches for the year.

Merlin

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Merlin

Too many people cite his receptions for last year as if it woud be an indicator for this year. Well, last year, against some of the worse defenses around and with a great offense he catched a grand total of how many balls in the last 4 games?

Zero. In the playoff game, against the lambs he caught _nothing_, not even a cold. So I would not be so quick to base any predictions on his total catches for the year.

Merlin

Remember the 8 grabs for 100+ yards and a couple TDs, one was a sweet one-hander. Not bad for a 42 year old.

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

Remember the 8 grabs for 100+ yards and a couple TDs, one was a sweet one-hander. Not bad for a 42 year old.

As I said, in his final 4 games his grand total receptions equal zilch, nada, niente.

Merlin

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Merlin

As I said, in his final 4 games his grand total receptions equal zilch, nada, niente.

Merlin

He can't help it if the QB doesn't throw to him. Besides, before that, K. Robinsion was hurt and suspended. When he came back, thats when Rice wasn't getting any.

Odysseus · 05-26-2005, 09:43 PM

When was the last time the Broncos had a legitimate three WR threat? If the rookies get the right workout ethic from this deal then it's a win. Maybe he can share some stuff with Tuten.

Jerry is intent on enjoying this year so despite all the chatter about him not helping other players I think this represents something new. He's like a WR coach on the field. Maybe he's looking at coaching since he can't turn the motor off. Singletary is coaching for the 49ers. I think it might be a good addition depending on his attitude.

I was checking some fantasy football sites and I see Plummer's name popping up in the top ten for this year. I think that is realistic given some of the maturation on offense.

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by quiettiger

When was the last time the Broncos had a legitimate three WR threat? If the rookies get the right workout ethic from this deal then it's a win. Maybe he can share some stuff with Tuten.

Jerry is intent on enjoying this year so despite all the chatter about him not helping other players I think this represents something new. He's like a WR coach on the field. Maybe he's looking at coaching since he can't turn the motor off. Singletary is coaching for the 49ers. I think it might be a good addition depending on his attitude.

I was checking some fantasy football sites and I see Plummer's name popping up in the top ten for this year. I think that is realistic given some of the maturation on offense.

After this season, and Rice retires, wouldn't it be amazing if he became our WR coach.

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

After this season, and Rice retires, wouldn't it be amazing if he became our WR coach.

There is absolutely no evidence that he would be any good as a coach or that he would want to have anything to do with it.

Merlin

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

He can't help it if the QB doesn't throw to him. Besides, before that, K. Robinsion was hurt and suspended. When he came back, thats when Rice wasn't getting any.

If he can't catch any balls competing with the Seattle receivers and against the teams he played in the last 4 games (especially in the lambs), there is little reason to think he would do better here (although KC and OR defence would probably oblige

)

Merlin

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Merlin

There is absolutely no evidence that he would be any good as a coach or that he would want to have anything to do with it.

Merlin

NO EVIDENCE! This guy is the greatest person in the world who ever played WR. Tell me again thats not evidence.

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

NO EVIDENCE! This guy is the greatest person in the world who ever played WR. Tell me again thats not evidence.

Tell me, how many of the greats in any sport have gone into coaching and done well. I appreciate you being a

and loving your Broncos, but being the greatest athlete at any position has rarely if ever translated into becoming a good coach. And we have not even addressed matters of his ego into this discussion.

Merlin

Blueflame · 05-26-2005, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

NO EVIDENCE! This guy is the greatest person in the world who ever played WR. Tell me again thats not evidence.

Being able to play the game well does not necessarily automatically translate into the desire or ability to coach other athletes. And vice-versa... sometimes guys are very successful at coaching despite not having the physical gifts to play the game.

BroncoManCanuck · 05-26-2005, 09:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blueflame

Being able to play the game well does not necessarily automatically translate into the desire or ability to coach other athletes. And vice-versa... sometimes guys are very successful at coaching despite not having the physical gifts to play the game.

But this guy knows everything about being a WR. I say perfect coach.

Merlin · 05-26-2005, 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

But this guy knows everything about being a WR. I say perfect coach.

Why? Being great at any athletic endeavor has NEVER guaranteed a person making a great coach. Have you ever coached any sport at any level? Do you know anything about coaching?

Merlin

Blueflame · 05-26-2005, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

But this guy knows everything about being a WR. I say perfect coach.

Again, having the skill to do something (like play WR at the pro level) and having the patience and ability to teach others how to do it are two different things.

Odysseus · 05-26-2005, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blueflame

Being able to play the game well does not necessarily automatically translate into the desire or ability to coach other athletes. And vice-versa... sometimes guys are very successful at coaching despite not having the physical gifts to play the game.

Man! You really hate this guy. Listen. You are absolutely correct on this. Having skills and teaching skills are two different skills. The Broncos train coaches. I'll pick on Dennison since that is consistent for me. Can Rice train WR? Don't know. He hasn't even suited up yet. Will he be given the chance? That is up to Rice whether he shows an aptitude for this or not.

I don't think Rice is the greatest WR ever. I don't care what the record books say. I don't think he's that big of an impact player (Edit: Today) or even worth the attention we are showering on him. I originally thought it was a joke that he would play for us. I looked into the reasoning and don't think it's a bad deal. He wins. We win. He loses. We don't care.

When the Broncos faced the 49ers that year I told everyone I was picking Broncos but I had the right to change my mind in the first five minutes of the game. I had a $500.00 bet down and cancelled it when the Broncos came out out of the tunnel. The look in John Elway's eye is all I needed. I said "All bets are off." I got my beer and went into the other room. They came looking for me around the half and wanted to know how I knew. If you take the time and read a book entitled Blink you will know what I know.

Hogan11 · 05-27-2005, 05:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blueflame

Again, having the skill to do something (like play WR at the pro level) and having the patience and ability to teach others how to do it are two different things.

See Bart Starr for another example of this........great QB, lousy coach.

bloodsunday · 05-27-2005, 06:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rigs11

And all you guys made such a big deal about the number

It could still be a big deal. There could be an implied pressure on Rod to at least consider offering it to Rice. Look at how much the Avs kissed the water that Ray Borque walked on. Sakic offered him the captancy and would have offered him his number had he worn 77. Sakic had as much credibility as Rod does.

bloodsunday · 05-27-2005, 06:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoManCanuck

I think Rice will get at least 30 grabs this year. If you look at his stats, they are great for his age right now.

I doubt he grabs 30, unless somehow he unseats Watts. How many #4 WR in the league caught 30 balls? When was the last time a Denver #4 WR caught 30 balls? Watts only caught 30 as our #3 last year.

bloodsunday · 05-27-2005, 06:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Merlin

As I said, in his final 4 games his grand total receptions equal zilch, nada, niente.

Merlin

His role dimenished when K-Rob got back on the field. There are many Seattle fans that wish the pass in the endzone (to win that playoff game) was to Rice instead of D-Jack. Rice wasn't even on the field. I think Rice is a great addition in 3rd downs and the redzone. But, truthfully if the rest of our offense comes along the way I hope, I am not sure our #4 will get on the field much. I'd like to see our tightend play improve from Alexander and Putz before we start using 4 WR sets.

baja · 05-27-2005, 06:28 AM

Rice could be a go to kind of guy on third down or at least be a decoy that would have to be watched closely

05-26-2005, 08:45 PM	#1
Ballhawk Ring of Famer Join Date: Mar 2004 Posts: 4,132	Rice wants to end career with Broncos Rice wants to end career with Broncos Associated Press National Football League News Wire DENVER -- After years in the spotlight, Jerry Rice wants to enjoy the twilight. More concerned with having fun than trying to live up to the expectations thrust upon football's greatest receiver, Rice was hungry for a 21st season. That's why he signed with the Denver Broncos, who aren't rolling out the red carpet, but are simply asking him to come in, try to make the team and, if he does, to help them win a Super Bowl. "For so many years there was so much pressure on me," Rice said Thursday in a telephone interview with reporters in Denver. "I had to set a certain standard and I still carry on that standard. But I had a lot of weight on my shoulders. I had blinders on. I couldn't hear the crowd. I couldn't hear them chanting my name and I couldn't see little kids in the stands. I was so focused on what I had to do." The last couple of years, though, he has been more of a role player. "The ball was not coming my way every down and I'm really enjoying the game and having fun," he said. Rice, who agreed to a one-year contract with Denver on Wednesday, concedes that at 42, he'll never play at the level that made him the most productive receiver in NFL history. But there are signs things might not be over. Last year, splitting time between Oakland and Seattle, he averaged 14.3 yards a catch, which was only a half-yard less than his career average. He is still in shape. Can still get open. The legs have lost some of their zip, but his heart certainly hasn't. Many times during his engaging, 30-minute long conversation Thursday, he sounded more like an excited rookie than a grizzled veteran. "I don't think it really has set in yet," he said. "With everything that is going on, the excitement, is great. ... I'm not sleeping right now. I am working out hard. I'm trying to get myself ready and I can wait to get reacquainted with Mike Shanahan." Rice will begin working for Shanahan when he reports to a voluntary minicamp next Wednesday. Shanahan was Rice's offensive coordinator at San Francisco from 1992-94 -- a span that included three playoff berths and one Super Bowl win, the third of Rice's career. Like the other coaches in the league, Shanahan received the e-mail from Rice's agent, Jim Steiner, letting everyone know that the "GOAT" -- Greatest Of All Time -- was available and wanted to play in 2005. How good might Rice be? Even Shanahan isn't sure of that, which is why he made it clear that no roster spot is guaranteed, a caveat Rice agreed upon without hesitation. "I don't think you know what anybody can do until they are actually in," Shanahan said. "Being around him enough, I know how dedicated he is and how he takes care of himself and how he played last year. Now, I have a chance to see him firsthand. He will be a plus for our team and hopefully he can still play at the level that can help us win." Shanahan views the Broncos as a team on the cusp of a championship, and it's why he has spent the offseason plugging a few holes here and there instead of revamping. He doesn't view Rice's presence as a possible distraction, only as a possible help for a team that has missed a productive third and fourth receiver over the past few seasons. Rice, meanwhile, doesn't want to be the center of attention, wants "to keep this low-key as possible." One of the most-asked questions since his signing is whether he would ask Rod Smith, Denver's all-time leading receiver, for jersey No. 80. "I'm not going to fight for that jersey," Rice said. "Rod is the guy there and deserves to keep that number." Smith also will continue to be Denver's No. 1 receiver and it's likely Ashley Lelie will be No. 2. "He's someone to learn from," Lelie said. "He's been there and done it. He's been doing it at a high level for such a long time. "If he asked for my number, I'd give it to him." Really, though, it's not about the number -- or the numbers. Rice has, indeed, already been there and done that. This is about taking a final lap around the league, and doing it with a team he thinks has a good chance of making it a victory lap. "It's the enjoyment of it," Rice said. "People walking up to tell me how I bring excitement to their day. I take pride in that, and the competition."

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05-26-2005, 08:51 PM	#2
Jason in LA Gimmie that rep fool! Speaking of Butts & Boob Mojo Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: LA Posts: 12,252	If he makes the team he'll get a good send off. I was at the final game at the old Mile High. It was Rice's last game as a Niner. The entire crowd chanted his name as he ran off the field. It was a good jesture. Who knew he'd come back to hurt us the next year with the Raiders? Think about it like this. Every play he makes, he breaking the records. A Bronco is will be breaking the records for receiving yards, receptions, and TDs. I can go with that.

05-26-2005, 09:23 PM	#4
BroncoManCanuck Solid Starter The Champ Is Here Join Date: May 2005 Location: Canada Posts: 195	I think Rice will get at least 30 grabs this year. If you look at his stats, they are great for his age right now.

05-26-2005, 09:26 PM	#5
Rigs11 Ring of Famer Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 7,818	And all you guys made such a big deal about the number

05-26-2005, 09:43 PM	#10
Odysseus Fan of the home team Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Durango, Colorado Posts: 12,107 Adopt-a-Bronco: Mark Schlereth	When was the last time the Broncos had a legitimate three WR threat? If the rookies get the right workout ethic from this deal then it's a win. Maybe he can share some stuff with Tuten. Jerry is intent on enjoying this year so despite all the chatter about him not helping other players I think this represents something new. He's like a WR coach on the field. Maybe he's looking at coaching since he can't turn the motor off. Singletary is coaching for the 49ers. I think it might be a good addition depending on his attitude. I was checking some fantasy football sites and I see Plummer's name popping up in the top ten for this year. I think that is realistic given some of the maturation on offense.

05-27-2005, 06:28 AM	#25
baja It is what it Is. Pay attention. Join Date: Apr 2001 Posts: 53,791 Adopt-a-Bronco: Buy My Book	Rice could be a go to kind of guy on third down or at least be a decoy that would have to be watched closely