Evolution of an already great franchise

by BroncoCUbuffs on Mar 12, 2010 9:51 AM MST

After observing two years worth of free agency acquisitions thoughts are generated as to current Bronco philosophy re "building" a team over time. The first phase seems to be building a base of competence throughout the roster with an eye towards grabbing potential stars in the draft as talent presents itself. The second phase may mirror New England in terms of moving superior talent BEFORE value drops and stock piling picks that are more designed to take draft shots at what could develop into superior talent.

With the exception of one or two offensive linemen and a backup quarterback it looks like the Broncos have secured a base of competence throughout meaning they have proven, albeit somewhat aged in some cases, personnel at every position. Knowshown and Ayers arguably fit the concept of "shots" at drafting superior talent and others like Bruton, McBath, A. Smith, and Quinn could develop into like talent. Drafting for need rather than talent breeds mediocrity unless one is lucky. Filling initial roster with serviceable FAs gives us an opportunity to win now, buys time to develop raw talent, and allows McX to focus on drafting for potential stardom. Eventually, free agency may play a notably less important role as the roster assimilates draft picks into the active rotation.

The second phase appears much more farsighted and conducive to building a perennial contender. We are hearing that this year's draft is perhaps THE most stocked with talent in history. N.E's acquisition of high picks for this year's draft appears to reflect a degree of thought and planning head and shoulders above the other franchises. Couple last year's youth overhaul with this year's bounty and I'm predicting that N.E. will be revisiting the Super Bowl within two years. By divesting themselves of malcontents or misfits, read that Cutler, Marshall, and Schefler, and stock piling our own high round picks, the Broncos could position themselves in a similar fashion.

The 3rd phase evolves into evaluating the present worth of current stars, such as Baily and Graham, against future worth and deciding when to trade in order to perpetuate the Bronco's ability to focus the draft on bringing in potential stars. Bowlen's track record documents and validates an already superior organization. It appears he and the McX factor are taking the organization to the next level. What a privilege to witness the birth and development of this metamorphosis! It is a good time to be a Bronco fan!

This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR

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Great analysis

Although I look at getting rid of the high profile talent like Graham and Bailey and cringe I completely agree that it would be far better to get value for these players before they get past the point where they have a worth to us.

by JALefor on Mar 12, 2010 11:24 AM MST reply actions

Very well stated CUbuffs and thanks.

Just watching “The Path To The Draft” where the analyst’s were profiling Taylor Mays as a versitile type player who may fit in as an ILBer as well as Safety or Cornerback. he has the size and speed to close in on coverage and make plays. He would have to work on his footwork though. Jerry Hughes is another tough, physical player we might take a look at. I believe McD will get players who fit the system and are smart, physical and versitile whether it’s a DT, DE, LB or CB with the first pick. I don’t think we will trade out of #11. There are so many possibilities in this draft that it makes one’s head a little queasy, it just leaves some folks rattled with the selections McD makes. I trust his instincts as our Head Coach to make the right decisions even though I felt at #18 last year he should have taken an ILBer and addressed the OLBer and DE this year. Oh well, they know better than I do or anybody else on here or in the media.

by bfree2bronc on Mar 12, 2010 12:33 PM MST reply actions

Knowshon

While many were disappointed with Knowshown last year I saw a man learning in the face of adversity if not outright physical abuse. What’s the saying “trial by fire”. Give the offensive line a couple of new bodies and some time to gel and I think we’ll see a solid running game that forces defenses to play all phases of the game. Mike Mayok stated Ayers was perhaps the best defensive pick in the draft. I just have this gut feeling this year will be a breakout for him as the new D-line opens up the pursuit lanes for our lbs.

If we don’t pick up extra picks from Marshall and Schefler I could see us moving back in the draft. As deep as the draft is I think an extra 2nd round pick could be the equivalent of a 1st from last year’s. If you like the idea of drafting for star potential this is the year to acquire more picks.

"Peace, a journey without distance to a place we have never left."

by BroncoCUbuffs on Mar 12, 2010 12:59 PM MST up reply actions