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Horse Tracks - 3/13/10 - Champ collects his bonus

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Good Morning Broncos Country!  One week into the new NFL calendar year - which means several players received a nice check in the mail.  For the Broncos, that meant Champ Bailey got a crisp $3 million roster bonus.  He wasn't the only one.  Running back Knowshon Moreno ($3.775 million), linebacker D.J. Williams ($3 million) and receiver Brandon Stokley ($500,000) were other Broncos players whose bonuses were exercised this week.  Mike Klis gave a list of Broncos in the 'Millionaire's Club' and the list was quite shocking to me.  The Top-5 Broncos in terms of 2010 salary - Champ($13.5 mil), Knowson Moreno ($8.44 mil), Justin Bannan ($7 mil), Jamal William ($6 mil), D.J. Williams ($6 mil).  A 2nd year running back, 2 free agent signees and D.J. Williams round out the Top-5 after Champ.  How about the 'lowest' paid millionaires on the Broncos?  Here's the list - Brandon Lloyd($1.26 mil), Tony Scheffler($1.18 mil), Russ Hochstein($1.13 mil), Ryan Clady($1.02 mil), Mario Haggan($1 mil).  Yes, you read that right, Ryan Clady, perhaps the best LT in football, will make $1.02 million this season.  In these economic times it is hard to feel bad for anyone making $1 million, but in the world of the NFL Clady is obviously underpaid.  We haven't heard Clady complain, however, haven't heard any threats of holding out of mini-camp, or OTAs.  It's refreshing to know some people focus on going about their business - knowing that the reward for that effort will come in time.  On to the Tracks!

American Football in London
Both Broncos and 49ers head coaches and players talk about playing at London's Wembley Stadium next season.

Champ Bailey still on top of Broncos' salary pile - The Denver Post
As Champ Bailey's once-record, seven-year contract with the Broncos enters its final months, the left cornerback on Tuesday collected one more $3 million roster bonus. Running back Knowshon Moreno ($3.775 million), linebacker D.J. Williams ($3 million) and receiver Brandon Stokley ($500,000) were other Broncos players whose bonuses were exercised this week.

Champ, Lynch to help Darrent Williams Teen Center | All Things Broncos
Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey and former Broncos safety John Lynch will co-chair a fundraiser for the Darrent Williams Teen Center in September.

Star-divide

Broncos' millionaire club: who makes at least $1 million for Denver | All Things Broncos
With the Broncos giving cornerback Champ Bailey a $3 million signing bonus this week, Mike Klis on Saturday will breakdown the roster by salary. Look for it overnight.

Chiefs sign former Broncos center Wiegmann - The Denver Post
Veteran center Casey Wiegmann is returning to Kansas City.

The disconnect in scouting | National Football Post
NFL scouting is not a perfect science. Tony Mandarich and Ryan Leaf were high first-round draft picks. Defensive tackles John Randle and La’Roi Glover went undrafted. Tom Brady was a sixth-rounder. So why is the scouting system only about 60- to 70-percent accurate? I have some theories.

Behind the times: MLB short-shuttle | National Football Post
With college pro days now taking center stage in the draft process, terms such as "40 times," "straight-line speed" and "workout warriors" are becoming familiar in scouting communities across the country.

The meaning behind the words | National Football Post
Welcome to our third edition of "What They Say, What They Mean." Today, we deal with the comings and goings of the early NFL free agency period:

Could LT's New York visit affect Washington's Jets future? | National Football Post
I am curious about the Jets’ interest in former Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson, because I just don’t see what the plan is by swapping out one RB in his thirties in Thomas Jones — who was very productive as a Jet — for LT.

Bradford bumps back pro day | National Football Post
Quarterback Sam Bradford has pushed back his pro day workout to March 29 due to the annual NFL owners meeting, according to Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network.

Welker also recovering from torn rotator cuff | National Football Post
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker underwent surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff, an offseason procedure that's less serious than the torn anterior cruciate ligament he shredded in the final game of the season.

Cleveland Browns cut Steve Heiden | National Football Post
The Cleveland Browns cut tight end Steve Heiden, a transaction executed after signing tight end Ben Watson to a free agent deal.

Buccaneers land Jon Alston | National Football Post
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed unrestriced free agent linebacker Jon Alston today, a move that follows his recent visit with the New York Jets.

Packers sign Pickett, Collins | National Football Post
They signed defensive tackle Ryan Pickett, the team's franchise player, to a four-year, $28 million deal that includes $10 million in the first year and also agreed to terms on a three-year, $24.3 million deal with safety Nick Collins.

Larry Johnson is a Redskin | National Football Post
The Washington Redskins signed running back Larry Johnson to a three-year deal with a maximum value of $12 million.

Tomlinson leaning toward the Jets? | National Football Post
Veteran running back LaDainian Tomlinson might make his decision tonight, and there are signs pointing toward him potentially signing with the New York Jets.

Big day for Vuna Tuihalamaka | National Football Post
University of Arizona linebacker Vuna Tuihalamaka had a strong Pro Day workout with a 4.61 time in the 40-yard dash.

Adam Terry signs with the Colts | National Football Post
Former Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Adam Terry has agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts, a league source confirmed.

Holmgren: Quinn’s future ‘depends’ on Browns’ moves - NFL.com
It appears Brady Quinn is nothing more than the Browns’ last resort at quarterback.

Walker healthy, hungry for another chance after release by Raiders
Multiple injuries and incomparable tragedy have derailed Walker's career since he caught 69 passes for 1,084 yards and eight touchdowns with the Denver Broncos in 2006. However, Walker professed Friday on NFL Network that after several surgeries — including an experimental procedure on his right knee — he's 100 percent healthy and ready to play for whatever team is willing to give him a chance.

Roethlisberger's attorney hires private investigator for assistance
An attorney for Ben Roethlisberger has hired a private investigator to look into a 20-year-old Georgia college student's sexual-assault allegation against the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback.

Panthers lack of free-agent aggression makes task ahead tough
With the vast majority of top free agents off the market, the big spending is just about over. Although unsigned players aren't necessarily on the verge of panic, you can rest assured that they're calling their agents about getting a deal done now.

Need for playmakers has receivers going fast this offseason
In the week since teams began their shopping spree for proven talent, one clear trend is that wide receivers are in high demand.

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Happy Weekend and Thanks John!

-Stick to the fight when you are hardest hit - it's when things seem worst that you must not quit!

by BroncoSense72 on Mar 13, 2010 7:40 AM MST reply actions  

THanks, John.

Funny how Brandon Marshall isn’t “going fast.” T.O. and Marshall seem to be the lone receivers nobody wants. Hmmmm…..

-Harvey J. Neptune

"Practice doesn't make perfect. PERFECT practice makes perfect." - Vince Lombardi

by HarvJNep2n on Mar 13, 2010 7:44 AM MST reply actions  

Thanks John!

Didnt see that video about the London game yet. Awesome! Even more stoked to go now, will have to wait till October…

Bleeding Orange & Blue in The Netherlands

by BroncosNL on Mar 13, 2010 7:59 AM MST reply actions  

Hey John, I was wondering...

If you might be planning to share your opinions any time soon on how you think that things might shake out with regards to our RFA, their tender offers, and ultimately what can we expect to see as far as contracts for them…I find it hard to believe that we won’t sign at least a few of them to some sort of contract, as opposed to forcing them to play for their tender offer…Will they most likely wait until after the draft to work on these issues or are they (maybe) working on them even now (Doom, Orton, Kuper???)

Thanks

-Stick to the fight when you are hardest hit - it's when things seem worst that you must not quit!

by BroncoSense72 on Mar 13, 2010 7:59 AM MST reply actions  

Thanks for the Tracks!

I hope KnoMo earns his pay next year. Not that he was bad, per se, last year. He just didn’t live up to his draft slot and play lights out.

Also interesting that Stokely got the bonus, eh? Seems there were rumors off and on that Denver might not keep him this year. 500K pretty much solidifies that, correct? Same as Brandon Lloyd IIRC.

by Gristle McThornbody on Mar 13, 2010 8:20 AM MST reply actions  

After being drafted by Denver, Clady signed a six-year deal worth $17.5 million. So he is averaging nearly $3MM per year over the life of the contact. I’m sure he got several million dollar signing bonus. Clady can also void the 6th year of his deal.

When you guys get all fussy over having two 1st round picks in a single draft,that is ridiculous. Just remember what a bargain Clady is. Clady was the 12th overall pick and we traded Alphonso Smith for the 14th overall pick. Financially, the 14th overall pick is a really damn good deal for the team if you believe your scouts will pick talents like Clady, Pouncey, McClain or even Moreno.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 9:14 AM MST reply actions  

good point

Regarding Clady

You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace is it?....Did Caesar live here?

You know where I wanna go? I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen

by johnnystarr on Mar 13, 2010 9:15 AM MST up reply actions  

yeah Moreno probably just has a contract that is structure a lot differently than Clady’s

by black_knight101 on Mar 13, 2010 9:40 AM MST up reply actions  

I think the "fussiness" is more about having to deal with a top 10 pick.

Where the signing bonuses seem to be more astronomical, especially in light of the fact that, for every Clady, there are just as many Tony Mandariches (Mandarichi?).

- Nick

"Know the enemy, know yourself, and victory is never in doubt, not in a hundred battles."
- Sun Tzu

by ncm42 on Mar 13, 2010 10:46 AM MST up reply actions  

wasn't Mandarich a #1? Quite different. And didn't Clady get paid for his draft position? It's not like he took a pay cut for us, he's simply received a large chunk up front and likely expecting another later...

Money is SO much less the issue here than the point (pick) at which the ‘sure thing’ talent drops off and an extra mid round pick becomes worth dropping down a few slots.

by Whidbey Bronco on Mar 13, 2010 1:31 PM MST up reply actions  

wow

I know its the system but do you seriously expect Marshall to sign his tender knowing a guy like Bannan is going to be making almost 2.5x what he is..

You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace is it?....Did Caesar live here?

You know where I wanna go? I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen

by johnnystarr on Mar 13, 2010 9:16 AM MST reply actions  

any of our RFA playing on a one year tender is not good for them and probably not good for us either. I think they will get long term contracts for less money than they would get on the open market

by black_knight101 on Mar 13, 2010 9:49 AM MST up reply actions  

Sign his tender? Probably not, but the reported offer from the Broncos earlier this year is probably looking quite a bit better. And not signing his tender means no money at all, not playing at all for a year, maybe two.

"My job description is to win football games. I'm a hard worker. I'm not flashy by any means, but my job is to play football and win and I plan to do that." Kyle Orton

by odarol on Mar 13, 2010 12:56 PM MST up reply actions  

I do and he should

He would have had his big time contract already if he hadn’t been hitting women….

Owning the Patriots since September 9, 1960

by Darin H on Mar 13, 2010 7:23 PM MST up reply actions  

10 yard penalty

for hitting below the belt..

Regardless of how you feel Marshall his only league imposed suspension was shortened by the NFL commissioner despite of attempts by ESPN to make him look bad.

I dont condone what he is doing or has done, but if the commissioner is willing to reduce the penalty the charges must not be that severe.

You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace is it?....Did Caesar live here?

You know where I wanna go? I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen

by johnnystarr on Mar 13, 2010 7:45 PM MST up reply actions  

Holy cats

$1.06 million this year for Ryan Clady? Good point above, McGeorge, but for his year… that’s almost yard-sale, beat-up-old-lamp money! Let’s all pitch in and start our own league! Heck, we spend that every year on gas money in Montana! ; )

How about Brian Dawkins coming in 19th/27 at $1.82 million? Poor safeties seem ever undervalued.

Wow, is Klis trying to cause a locker room revolt with this crap, or what?

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 9:17 AM MST reply actions  

It is a great shame that Clady’s cap hit would be just $1MM this year. Would be nice to roll up more money into this uncapped year.

But Cutler was only a $1MM cap hit in 2008. Those per year salary numbers are really misleading since NFL players receive such massive signing bonuses.

Clady will have a cap hit in the $10MM per year range when he signs his next deal.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 9:20 AM MST up reply actions  

Wow, that's an interesting point

Seems like the uncapped year could open the door to a whole slew of front-heavy restructurings this year. Wonder if we’ll see that??

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 9:22 AM MST up reply actions  

We already have. Peppers 2010 salary is $20MM. His 2011 salary is something like $7MM.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 9:24 AM MST up reply actions  

This contract wasnt restructured he signed as a UFA. It has a ton up front just like any other big NFL contract.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 2:48 PM MST up reply actions  

His is different. He put a huge cap hit upfront (no cap so no hit). Most UFA contracts spread the cap hit out pretty evenly over the life of the deal, but not so with the deal Peppers just signed. It is not an even distribution. It is front loaded for the uncapped year.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:09 PM MST up reply actions  

No its front loaded because its a 3 year deal, that appears to be a 6 year deal. All big NFL contracts have about 40%-50% the first year. Thats standard for any big deal any year.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 6:08 PM MST up reply actions  

Trouble is 2011

Does it make sense to front-load contracts and pay a lot now for the future services of a talented player if he will not be playing next year? Pay now, have no revenue in 2011 because there is no football? Remember what NFLPA chief said – they want a lockout (in his words, chances of lockout are 14 on 1-10 scale).

by si_ice on Mar 13, 2010 10:06 AM MST up reply actions  

Anytime you pay a big or even moderate NFL deal

l you have to pay about 40-50% upfront, thats how football works.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 2:50 PM MST up reply actions  

You have really missed the point of what SI Ice and I are discussing. Both of us know very well that a huge part most NFL contracts is the signing bonus. This may shock you, but most of us at MHR even understand proration of bonus money over the life of an NFL contact.

SI Ice made a great point about the dangers of stroking a large check before the 2010 season because the owner may get ZERO return on those dollars if we don’t have football in 2011.

I think we’ll have football in 2011, but I’d be a fool to say that is a certainty. I think there is a "really decent – Pork Chop" chance 2011 is a shortened seasoned or not played at all. Sounds like the owners are really pissed about the current CBA and sharing of revenue. The players are going to have to give a lot more than they want to or maybe should.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:59 PM MST up reply actions  

yeah that might be why Moreno’s number is so high this year, management knew an uncapped year was highly likely so they paid him a lot during this year.

by black_knight101 on Mar 13, 2010 9:51 AM MST up reply actions  

I have said for a long time...

That the salary number for Cutler in 2008 – $1 million – was a major reason he got so pissed when Shanny fired. I believed then, as I do now, that Shanny was going to give Cutler a fat extension last off-season. It affirmed it for me when the Bears, despite Cutler’s questionable play, gave him $30 million.

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 12:43 PM MST up reply actions  

er, 1.02… : /

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 9:20 AM MST up reply actions  

As most NFL contracts are disclosed, every NFL player knows what his teammates make.

I’d worry a lot more about what Elvis thinks about Bannan and Williams deal as he makes less than half of what those guys get. If Elvis doesn’t get a new deal between now and maybe week 4 of the 2010 NFL season, we’re going to have an angry OLB on our hands.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 9:23 AM MST up reply actions  

angry OLB

and not in a good way. : )

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 9:24 AM MST up reply actions  

Angry OLB as in, “I’m signing somewhere else in 2011” way.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 9:30 AM MST up reply actions  

exactly. Here’s hoping that the first/third tender is just step 1 to a phat new contract for a guy who clearly earned one.

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 9:31 AM MST up reply actions  

Misrepresenting Salaries..

A couple of things -

These are not ‘cap hits’ as some have suggested. There is no salary cap.

Secondly, before going off about Clady’s, Dawkins’ or anyone else’s salary, keep in mind that the salaries do not include amounts received at time of signing, guaranteed money, bonuses within the contract or anything else. There are a number of players who sign, say, a $50 million contract over five years and receive as much as $30 million up front leaving their ‘salary’ at $4 million a year.

And, as far as Dumervil and others playing elsewhere in 2011, because the owners opted out of the CBA, RFA’s remain that way for 2 years, not just in 2010. Of course, if there is a lockout (and, personally, I hope there is) that second year melts away.

All professional athletes, government officials and corporate executives are just like the Hollywood types – they make so much money they have lost touch with reality. Don’t bother telling me the average career is only 3 years. I would love to make $1 million a year for 3 years. For most average Americans, $3 million is what they will earn over a 40 to 60 year period.

by Pinkster on Mar 13, 2010 9:58 AM MST reply actions  

Your point about signing bonus is exactly why Bena’s intro is misleading and elementary.

Bena, your intro today is Klis or Paige type pandering.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 10:02 AM MST up reply actions  

I didn't read any comments until I posted below

Well, other than AirNorval’s that popped up while I was typing. We’re going to have to go back to disagreeing more often, or they’ll think we’re in cahotes (sp?), instead of the voices of reason =)

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 11:04 AM MST up reply actions  

You are not going to hear me pat Clady on the back for sticking to the terms of his high 1st round pick slotted contract he signed in the go-go days of overpaying 1st round picks. Isn’t 1st round draft pick overcompensation one of the main drivers behind the owner’s exiting the CBA? Contracts like the slotted one Clady, Jarvis Moss and Moreno sign?

Sorry, but I don’t think that makes Clady some kind of poor sap for playing out his high 1st round pick rookie deal. MHR is always pointing out the opportunity cost of paying 1st round picks because they are expensive. Now we are supposed to praise Clady for living up the terms of a slotted 1st round pick contract signed in 2008 and not whining a about money?

PLEASE! Give me a freaking break.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 11:30 AM MST up reply actions  

Don't ever compare me to those guys...

Or find somewhere else to go… 100% serious in that statement.

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
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XBox Gamertag - MileHighReport
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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 11:37 AM MST up reply actions  

Grow some thicker skin dude

He has a very valid point. Your intro is very narrow in focus and some people will be misled by it. Not everyone that reads MHR is smart enough to think outside of the picture that is handed to them.

Regardless of the validity of the point, I will say McGeorge’s comment was VERY trollish.

(You could make your point without putting John in the same sentence with those two A—Hats though, McGeorge. Trolling the site owner is not your wisest move.)

"Precipitation, which side are you on?
Are you on the rise? Are you falling down?
Let me know, Come on let's go, yeah
Got some if you need it!" -EV

by sadaraine on Mar 13, 2010 12:54 PM MST up reply actions   1 recs

Notice -

I said nothing about his criticism of what I wrote – I was broad because I wasn’t trying to push an agenda. I wasn’t trying to say the Broncos were cheap, or that they weren’t cheap. I simply pointed out Clady’s number because it surprised me. Brandon Marshall made $2.5 million last year and many said he was underpaid.

I care little if people agree with my opinions. I spent 2 years writing on this site for a very few people – sometimes I miss those days…

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
or
Call Me! (303)731-5605

Follow MHR on Twitter!
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XBox Gamertag - MileHighReport
Playstation Gamertag - TheSportsGuru

by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 12:58 PM MST up reply actions   1 recs

Cheers

Appreciate the effort mate. I am newer than some around here, and I really hope you continue. :)

Great job, great site.

the more you practice the luckier you get

by dextermilo on Mar 13, 2010 2:30 PM MST up reply actions  

I agree with you John and way too many smartellics these days...including me!

I have to confess that I sometimes get so aggrevated at a post, and I want to tear their head off and spit down…But, I try to keep calm when childish chiding slithers in…

by bfree2bronc on Mar 13, 2010 2:49 PM MST up reply actions  

Fair enough. I’m actually glad you don’t want to be compared to Klis.

So I’ll just stick to criticizing your intro. IMO, it was elementary and misleading. I’ve come to expect better (much smarter) at MHR. You and your staff write much higher level pieces most days, so what you wrote today really stands out like a sore thumb. It reads like a collection of facts without any thought behind those numbers.
 

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:23 PM MST up reply actions  

There was a reason it was the Intro to HT...

Intros to HT are reactions to the articles I read that I post links to. Nothing more – not deep indulgences into the subject….People are looking for a quick ‘cup of coffee’ as I like to say. The lack of depth is on purpose – HT is not a deep feature of this site….

I was simply stating the salaries. Stop. Nothing More. Stop. Did I take a shot at Marshall’s 2009 antics, I did, but nothing more.

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
or
Call Me! (303)731-5605

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XBox Gamertag - MileHighReport
Playstation Gamertag - TheSportsGuru

by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 8:36 PM MST up reply actions  

I gotchyo back JB ...exactly right on the quick cup/quick story/basic fan reaction No deep indulgences to be found the except for the slow news day trolling....

and I’ve been guilty of the same so I know! (I’m pretty sure I’ve never used that term before now…I don’t love the name calling but …sorry? True?)

by Whidbey Bronco on Mar 13, 2010 10:28 PM MST up reply actions  

John

I love the site and all the work you put into it. Its the best Broncos site on the web bar none. . But we’re all allowed to be criticized. What MCG said was within context. No politics or religion were brought up. No threats needed to be made.

You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace is it?....Did Caesar live here?

You know where I wanna go? I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen

by johnnystarr on Mar 13, 2010 7:55 PM MST up reply actions  

People can criticize the words...

all they want – to personally compare me to anyone, ummm, no thanks.

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

Questions, Comments...E-Mail Me!
milehighreport@gmail.com
or
Call Me! (303)731-5605

Follow MHR on Twitter!
Follow MHR on Facebook!

XBox Gamertag - MileHighReport
Playstation Gamertag - TheSportsGuru

by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 8:37 PM MST up reply actions  

i dont know

I’ve never seen you compared to anyone.. if I’m wrong I apologize.

Either way its a great site and you should be proud :)

You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace is it?....Did Caesar live here?

You know where I wanna go? I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen

by johnnystarr on Mar 13, 2010 8:45 PM MST up reply actions  

It wasn't misleading.

Bena wrote in part: " The Top-5 Broncos in terms of 2010 SALARY" (emphasis mine). You have a good point about the signing bonuses, but it seems clear to me he is only talking about base salary for 2010.

- Nick

"Know the enemy, know yourself, and victory is never in doubt, not in a hundred battles."
- Sun Tzu

by ncm42 on Mar 13, 2010 12:07 PM MST up reply actions  

And that is really misleading when the structure of NFL contracts comes into play. I expect better at MHR. It’s a blessing and sometimes a curse.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:24 PM MST up reply actions  

These figures are not secret and can be found as a public record on the internet.

Klis isn’t trying to start any locker room revolt, he is just making noise in a silent room. At least it got some of your goats! Job well done Mike…

by bfree2bronc on Mar 13, 2010 10:31 AM MST up reply actions  

WOW

Denver looks to be printing money these days

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 10:54 AM MST reply actions  

Right or wrong, I feel you just oversimplified a lot of information to twist a story... like MSM does

We haven’t heard Clady complain, however, haven’t heard any threats of holding out of mini-camp, or OTAs. It’s refreshing to know some people focus on going about their business – knowing that the reward for that effort will come in time.

RFA’s accross the league are whining and complaining and many, if not most are expected to hold out. The reasons for which, you fully understand – I’ll not bore with the details. Instead, I’ll just say that it’s more likely than not, that if Clady were in his fifth year and all of the sudden a RFA, also… Then he’d complaing too.

Nothing in your opening is surprising, nor should it be let out there in the world as if Denv’er’s printing money (Air Norval’s quote).

I’m sure you’ve got some way to explain yourself away, but you make it look like Denver is throwing money all around, and in some cases, to the wrong people. Some real context instead of twisting of information would have been nice to help people understand.

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 10:57 AM MST reply actions  

As far as I can tell, so far...

WIth just a quick estimate from a “payout” sheet I made a month ago, detailing all actual cash due to be paid to players… We’re still going to be UNDER the amount we paid last year.

Sometime in the next week, I’ll update the list and post it, maybe then, these payouts will have some context… and it will become more apparent that the Denver Broncos didn’t just become the Denver mint. Respectfully, of course.

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 11:01 AM MST up reply actions  

What the hell are you talking about??

Do not place what you inferred by what I said onto everyone else! ‘Throwing money around’?? Where did I say that…

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 11:39 AM MST up reply actions  

It wasn't said, it was inferred

Narrowly focused stuff will do that to you

"Precipitation, which side are you on?
Are you on the rise? Are you falling down?
Let me know, Come on let's go, yeah
Got some if you need it!" -EV

by sadaraine on Mar 13, 2010 12:56 PM MST up reply actions  

You inferred it...

I’m sorry I didn’t explain the salary structure of the NFL when pointing out the Broncos salaries in 2010.

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 1:00 PM MST up reply actions  

HAHA

Wow. Tough crowd to please over here I guess. You mention the salaries, and comment that it is surprising some of the names on the highest 2010 salary hits. Then mention Clady is underpaid.

Straights facts, and two opinions that are sound in logic. An then you get roasted for somehow implying the Broncos are throwing money to the wrong people. Talk about under appreciated, and over worked. Maybe you should have mentioned ALL teams have overpaid vets, and underpaid stud young guys on rookie deals; but that can be said for any job. Thats how the world works.

I think you might be the most underpaid member of the Broncosphere, your tender was the right of refusal tender I think. Maybe the Chargers should make you an offer since it wouldnt cost a draft pick.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 2:04 PM MST up reply actions  

Thanks...

I’ll take bashing from Broncos fans over compliments from Chargers fans any day – though I don’t think you complimenting me…

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 2:48 PM MST up reply actions  

Its a great blog you guys run here

Thats not a compliment though, its popular consensus.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 2:52 PM MST up reply actions  

I do appreciate that...

Thank You…

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 2:53 PM MST up reply actions  

+1. I agree.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:29 PM MST up reply actions  

I don't twist stories...

To twist a story, there has to be an agenda behind it. What is my agenda? I’m simply putting out there what the salaries are for the Broncos this season.

Again, the RFA thing is a LEAGUE-WIDE ISSUE. The players, on every team, are pissed at the owners. These guys are losing the chance to make millions of dollars. I don’t blame Dumervil or Orton for staying away from ‘voluntary’ workouts.

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 11:42 AM MST reply actions  

But you praised Clady for not doing it, without mentioning the difference

Easy killer. I don’t know why you’re getting so pissed. Your intro gave no context and didn’t differentiate between why Clady isn’t complaing, versus why the others are. Instead it gave Clady a back pat (for not being in a year where he’s due a roster bonus, like some of the other guys just happen to be in), then continued with, “some people focus on going about their business”. Slap to the other players?

Do not place what you inferred by what I said onto everyone else! ‘Throwing money around’?? Where did I say that…

Where did I say you did?

I’m not the only one above, and I’m not just talking about McGeorge, that inferred your intro to be misrepresentative of the situation. It lacked context, allowing people to take the numbers wrong.

Take a breath. I don’t hate you, didn’t call kick your dog, not launching a campaign against you. But you’re not above criticism, well at least I thought not until you threatened to boot McGeorge for it. I guess it’s your site and you can do the same to me.

I’ll gladly accept the ban if you’re going to start policing such innocent criticism’s with such harsh threats and tone.

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 12:14 PM MST up reply actions  

Maybe the back pat for Clady was in contrast to the last 2+ years of whining out of Marshall about his contract?

- Nick

"Know the enemy, know yourself, and victory is never in doubt, not in a hundred battles."
- Sun Tzu

by ncm42 on Mar 13, 2010 12:35 PM MST up reply actions  

But you assumed I was attacking

certain guys. I wasn’t. To my knowledge we have just one player, a guy you defend, that has complained about his contract prior to this season. My opinion on the RFA situation this year is well stated – I don’t blame those guys for doing what they are doing.

As for threats? All I said was find somewhere else to go. If that is his criticism – that I am Woody Paige or Mike Klis, than I have little time for it. I’m sure they don’t appreciate it either.

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 12:38 PM MST up reply actions  

Not one player.

I would consider holding out of OTA’s as a way of complaining. Some have already said they will do that, and theywon’t likely be the last. I wasn’t defending Marshall, btw. And I usually don’t. For the record, I have no broad cut-and-dried black and white idea of how he should be dealt with. I would defend or condemn any action relating to him based on my own opinion, not a black and white agenda. My opinion generally sides with the team and McDaniels far more often than with Brandon Marshall.

I was really more defending Dumervil. He’ll be holding out of OTA’s, perhaps Kyle too. And my point was that I don’t put Clady on a pedestool for not holding out, nor do I think less of Dumervil for doing so. The situations are night and day.

My other point was about the money you listed. You can see from looking at the comments above and below, that after reading your intro, people get the idea that we’re on a spending spree. And that’s partially because there was no context within the numbers you gave.

For example, there was no mention to how absolutely normal it is for multiple roster bonuses to be paid in any one contract year, or that Knoshon Moreno won’t make the huge salary he’s making this year, at any other time throughout the life of his contract. Not to mention, the fact that Clady just isn’t in a bonus year, like he was the past two years, and that that is the reason his contract lookds so low.

Tensions are up this morning, not my intent. I’ll give you the last word on this.

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 1:53 PM MST up reply actions  

I support Dumervil...

His ‘holdout’ if that is what we want to call it, is more about the system in place right now than an unhappiness with the Broncos. I completely understand where he, Orton, Kuper, et al, are coming from…

Anyway, I just finished my workout so I feel much better! Can I buy you a beer!?! [_]

-TSG

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 2:50 PM MST up reply actions  

haha

A little early yet, but cheers nonetheless!

Good luck with the Redskins Mr. Mike! I'll be watching and cheering for a non-Bronco team for the first time in my life. Well, except when they play the Broncos!

by Alex on Mar 13, 2010 2:56 PM MST up reply actions  

My criticism was that I expect (due to the excellence of your past work) much better from you than the type of dimwitted stuff Woody and Klis put out on a daily basis.

IMO, your intro today was not even close to your best work. It was out of character and if you told me someone else wrote it, I’d believe you.

In my opinion.

by McGeorge on Mar 13, 2010 5:33 PM MST up reply actions  

Some people here woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning

Hah.

I’m gonna go back to watching Hull City vs Arsenal on FSC.

There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.

by underdog on Mar 13, 2010 11:43 AM MST reply actions  

champ stays

that is excellent news, in my opinion. i feel dj is overpaid and a bad fit right now, but still a very good player. just overpriced, that’s all. same with graham. those are for the “trade champ” crowd, there are better options, if we must cut salary somewhere. i wonder what moss is costing us, versus being released. do we keep him again?

dl are not cheap, and i am just giddy we are putting some money there now. should be well spent, though bannan was a little surprising. here’s hoping he earns it. clady will get his, and is a class act. he’ll be here for the long haul, and yes, we will have to pay him accordingly. well worth it, again.

taste my blitzkrieg!
sign doom now

by davecheffy on Mar 13, 2010 12:27 PM MST reply actions  

I know it all relative but....

With all due respect, they are all overpaid and the fact that any of them complain about it is just proof of the prima-dona attitude of most professional athletes!

"you can lead a moron to the facts but you can't make him think"

by discgolfin' on Mar 13, 2010 1:12 PM MST reply actions   1 recs

Wow!! I believe we hit the touchy subject of the week.

When we were signing these guys last week I made a post in regard to how thrilled I was but at the same time wondered what kind of message it sent to Doom, Kuper, Orton, BM & our other RFA’s and was rebuked rather quickly I might add. I believe it was something along the lines of this is the current state of the NFL & how business is being conducted in regard to the CBA or soon to be lack of one. Although some of these guys like the NFL sack leader are hand cuffed so to speak, the club still has the ability to sign him to a new contract without forcing the issue of having pissed off players and holdouts for the upcoming season. One mans opinion go ahead pile on.

by Terry8377 on Mar 13, 2010 1:24 PM MST reply actions  

It is strange to note

The Chargers and Broncos both have big name RFAs that are at least in theory suppose to say with their respective teams.
In fact the Chargers and Broncos are said to be the two of the top three teams that benefit from all the available RFA tags this year. If you consider the RFAs on both clubs it becomes apparent there’s some names that were due for a major pay day if they went UFA.

The strange this is the two teams for better or worse, look to be headed in different directions money wise at least this year. Now yes there is no cap this year, but its still weird to see.

by AirNorval on Mar 13, 2010 2:31 PM MST up reply actions  

This is all part of building a team.

and figuring it all out hopefully for long term competitiveness. We have no choice but to trust and hope that the Bronco brain trust knows what they are doing. It cannot be an easy thing trying to figure out what to pay players and hopefully keep them happy. I hope that they are successful because it is a lot more fun to cheer for a winning team.

I could have been a Rhodes Scholar, except for my grades.
-- Duffy Daugherty

by discgolfin' on Mar 13, 2010 1:57 PM MST reply actions  

Don't attack Guru

I’m probably younger than most of you guys but I was on this sight when a fan post would stay on the side bar for 10 days. I was here when Guru began forming the staff of the sight. I even received a ban warning during the cutler debacle.

That said, I think I can say this is the only time I have seen people attack Gurus writing. All these years and it’s his first mistake. Calm down. All of us have had a bad post before.

by broncodude793 on Mar 13, 2010 5:23 PM MST via mobile reply actions   1 recs

rec your comment

What I saw when I read the intro was a brief synopsis of an article about the Broncos and their payroll. That’s all I didn’t think anything else. I have noticed that he tends to give a little highlight of what each article is about. It’s that brief writing that lets me know if I want to read it or not.

GOOD WORK JOHN. Yeah I wanted to yell that It takes a lot of work and effort to put these links together.

Thanks John I appreciate your effort and work

by papasteven on Mar 13, 2010 7:00 PM MST up reply actions  

Good gravy

Why so serious, guys? Lighten up already. Spring is nearly upon us! It’s the offseason! We just got a D line! We’re not the Raiders! So many reasons to feel good right now! Stop harshing our mellow! LOL

"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.

by broncosmontana on Mar 13, 2010 5:27 PM MST reply actions  

Hey

what happened to the formatting here. This isn’t going to work at all.

Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks

by KaptainKirk on Mar 13, 2010 6:45 PM MST reply actions  

Don;t know...

I only have the problem in Fire Fox…

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 8:38 PM MST up reply actions  

Thank you

Now responding with Google Chrome. All is well.

Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks

by KaptainKirk on Mar 13, 2010 10:40 PM MST up reply actions  

The Concept of Horse Tracks...

Guys, guys, guys..Please understand what HT is about and what my intro’s mean. Horse Tracks is an ‘Orange and Blue cup of coffee’ in the morning. Light reading to start your day. I was simply commenting on the salary article. As McGeorge said, more is expected at MHR – I understand that, I built the site with that in mind – but I also go into it with the thought that there is more expected from the reader as well.

That’s not a shot at anyone, but it works both ways. In the case of HT, you will not see indepth analysis of anything. Simply my thoughts – usually very early in the morning – about the previous day’s stories. I hope that makes sense. If you are looking for depth, HT is not for you.

Carry on!

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 8:42 PM MST reply actions  

I guess what I am saying is...

If I am going to get criticized for an opinion, make it for something more important than HT. :)

-TSG

SBNation's Denver Broncos Blogger
MileHighReport

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by John Bena on Mar 13, 2010 8:43 PM MST up reply actions  

Keep up the good work.

This is a great site. I’ve had my warpaths but then again I don’t have the understanding or experience that the staff (present and past) have.

With that said I don’t see any reason for them to criticize your hard work. I’m with papigrande. I read it as a tidbit not an indepth analysis. Heck, I wouldn’t have even thought of the other things if there hadn’t been an argument.

MHR is such an awesome site that I don’t think some realize it. A few ungrateful trolls get everyone in an uproar. Would you guys rather be reading ESPN or PFT for an indepth look at the Broncos? Not me.

Remember how much time and effort is being put in. I don’t have it. Be greatful for those who do.

by broncodude793 on Mar 13, 2010 9:00 PM MST via mobile up reply actions   1 recs

You can't please everyone John and I wouldn't even try it...It ain't worth it.

You do a wonderful job with this site and I appreciate it very much…Thanks!

by bfree2bronc on Mar 13, 2010 10:47 PM MST up reply actions  

Please

don’t in any way take any of this to mean HT is not the best part of MHR. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea(or coffee), but it was and is the reason I think MHR is #1. I get up early and this is the first place I go. The funny part is I came to this site for over a year every morning to check out HT and read the excellent articles by the staff. I never even knew anything about the fanposts and that any and everybody is capable of publishing them. Now I have become a member and participate in the comments, but days like today I wish I still didn’t know about the comments at all, just read the main page and left.

by Digger24 on Mar 13, 2010 9:35 PM MST up reply actions  

Very intersting reading above.

so I’ll go in a different direction. First of all thanks for HT John. It is perfect for me because I don’t have to do a lof of searching for Bronco related info. I get it all rolled into one. Thanks for this site, I can’t imagine having to listen to the MSM daily instead of getting my news from here.

Ok, now to som thoughts. Very interesting to see the Jets going after Tomlinson when they could have just signed Thomas Jones. They try to get him for a cheeper price and miss out on it so now they get a RB that despite being the same age as Jones, isn’t as good as he is.

One Walker saying he is 100% healthy and ready for a team to give him a shot. He has been through quite a lot over the past several years, so if he is physically and emotionally ready to play then I wish him all the best.

Floyd Little: HOF Class of 2010.

2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant

by weazel on Mar 13, 2010 11:57 PM MST reply actions  

John

I would just like to say thank you for everything you do on this site. I have gone to many places, but I have not enjoyed a broncos site more then this one. The free agency threads were so much fun. I look forward to the future communication with everyone. So Thanks again.

by Nick Cast on Mar 14, 2010 1:54 AM MST reply actions  

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