Who Is Fighting For Their Jobs On Thursday?
by Nick Cast on Sep 1, 2010 3:35 AM MDT
Email
PrintOn Thursday night, the Denver Broncos will play against the Minnesota Vikings. The result in the contest won't matter in the slightest. The Bronco starters are expected to play about a quarter, maybe less. The purpose of Thursday's game is to fill out the roster. The starters of each position are already known. Even most of the backups have been decided. However, it is the final 5-8 roster spots that are being fought over. Thursday is the final game of the pre season, and with teams required to be down to 53 by Saturday, it truly is the last chance for players to make their case to stay with the team.
More after the jump
Before we can talk about who is in danger of making the team, we have to talk about who is assured to make the team.
Below, is the depth chart provided to us by Denver Broncos.com. All players in bold are players I consider "Uncuttable" and all players with () around them indicate their secondary position.
Offense
QB- Kyle Orton, Brady Quinn, Tim Tebow
RB- Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, LenDale White, Bruce Hall, Lance Ball
FB- Spencer Larsen
TE- Daniel Graham, Richard Quinn, Marques Branson, Riar Greer, Nathan Overbay, Kory Sperry
WR 1- Brandon Lloyd, Demayrius Thomas, Alric Arnett
WR Slot- Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley
WR 2- Jabar Gaffney, Matthew Willis, Eric Decker, Britt Davis
LT- Ryan Clady, D'Anthony Batiste, (Zane Beadles)
LG- Zane Beadles, Seth Olsen, Eric Olsen
C- J.D. Walton, Russ Hochstein
RG- Chris Kuper, (D'Anthony Batiste), Stanley Daniels
RT- Ryan Harris, Paul Duncan
In total, 16 offensive players who are Uncuttable.
Defense
LDE- Ryan McBean, Jarvis Green, Marcus Thomas, Ben Garland
DT- Jamal Williams, Ronald Fields, Chris Baker, (Marcus Thomas)
RDE- Justin Bannan, Le Kevin Smith, Jeff Stehle, (Chris Baker)
OLB 1- Jarvis Moss, Baraka Atkins, Jammie Kirlew, Elvis Dumervil
MLB- D.J. Williams, Wesley Woodyard, Worrell Williams
MLB- Mario Haggan, Joe Mays, Johnny Williams
OLB 2- Robert Ayers, Kevin Alexander, Jason Hunter, Darrell Reid
CB- Champ Bailey, Perrish Cox, Alphonso Smith, Cassius Vaughn
CB- Andre Goodman, Nate Jones, Syd'Quan Thompson
SS- Renaldo Hill, David Bruton, Kyle McCarthy, (Nate Jones)
FS- Brian Dawkins, Darcel McBath
In total, 14 defensive players who are Uncuttable.
Special teams
K- Matt Prater
P- Britton Colquitt
LS- Lonnie Paxton
In total, 3 special team players who are Uncuttable.
So in total, 33 people are assured a roster spot. Now, those who are not in bold, are not bad players. Far from it. It just means that they aren't as valuable and irreplaceable as those who are in bold. So with 33 players in bold, that leaves 20 spots up for grabs. Here is how many players were kept at each position last year:
QB-3, RB-4, TE-3, WR-6, OL-9, DL-7 (2 DT, 5 DE), LB-9, CB-4, S-5, ST-3
Below, is another depth chart. However, this is my depth chart. It includes all of the people that I believe will make the team regardless of what happens on thursday.
Depth Chart Featuring All Players Who Will Be On The Team Regardless Of Thursday's Game
Offense
QB- Kyle Orton, Tim Tebow, Brady Quinn
RB- Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, LenDale White, Lance Ball
FB- Spencer Larsen
TE- Daniel Graham, Richard Quinn, Marques Branson,
WR 1- Demayrius Thomas,
WR Slot- Eddie Royal,
WR 2- Jabar Gaffney, Matthew Willis, Eric Decker,
LT- Ryan Clady, (Zane Beadles)
LG- Zane Beadles, Stanley Daniels
C- J.D. Walton, Russ Hochstein
RG- Chris Kuper, (Stanley Daniels)
RT- Ryan Harris, (Zane Beadles)
In total, 23 offensive players will make the team regardless of what happens on Thursday.
Defense
LDE- Ryan McBean, Jarvis Green,
DT- Jamal Williams, Ronald Fields, (Marcus Thomas)
RDE- Justin Bannan, Marcus Thomas
OLB 1- Jarvis Moss, Baraka Atkins,
MLB- D.J. Williams, Wesley Woodyard,
MLB- Mario Haggan, Joe Mays,
OLB 2- Robert Ayers, Jason Hunter,
CB- Champ Bailey, Perrish Cox, Alphonso Smith,
CB- Andre Goodman, Syd'Quan Thompson
SS- Renaldo Hill, David Bruton,
FS- Brian Dawkins, Darcel McBath
In total, 23 defensive players will make the team regardless of what happens on Thursday.
Special teams
K- Matt Prater
P- Britton Colquitt
LS- Lonnie Paxton
In total, 3 special teams players will make make the team regardless of what happens Thursday.
So this puts our total players at 49. Currently we have this many players at each position:
QB-3, RB- 4, TE-3, FB-1, WR-5, OL-7, DL-6, (DT-2 DE-4), LB- 8, CB- 5, S-4 ST- 3
So this brings us to our dilemma. We have 4 spots left. We are 1 WR, 2 OL, 1 DL, and 1 LB off from last year. At first, my numbers were thrown off because we didn't have a designated FB last year, but we do this year. So we are going to be 1 less at 1 position then we were last year. My bet is it's going to be LB.
So here are the players that were not above, and hence, will be fighting for their lives on Thursday:
Players Fighting For Their Jobs On Thursday
Offense
RB Bruce Hall, TE Riar Greer, TE Nathan Overbay, TE Kory Sperry, WR Brandon Lloyd, WR Alric Arnett, WR Brandon Stokley, WR Britt Davis, LT D'Anthony Batiste, G Seth Olsen, G Eric Olsen, RT Paul Duncan,
Defense
DE Ben Garland, NT Chris Baker, DE Le Kevin Smith, DE Jeff Stehle, OLB Jammie Kirlew, OLB Elvis Dumervil, MLB Worrell Williams, MLB Johnny Williams, OLB Kevin Alexander, OLB Darrel Reid, CB Cassius Vaughn, CB Nate Jones, SS Kyle McCarthy
In Total, 25 players are fighting for their jobs on Thursday.
25 players are fighting for 4 spots. So who gets those spots?
Well, this is all a matter of opinion. However, here is how I see those final 4 spots being filled:
Who Fills The Final Roster Spots
WR Brandon Lloyd
We are either going to keep Lloyd or Stokley. Lloyd has performed very well in the pre season. He has developed a very nice rapport with Orton. However, he has a history of being a great pre season performer, but disappearing when the regular season starts. On the other hand, Stokley is a great 3rd down receiver and one of Denver's most beloved players. However, he has been frequently injured during pre season and we need someone to step up until Demayrius is fully healed. It's a touch choice, but Stokley is going to have to have an amazing game on Thursday to change the coaches' minds.
LT D'Anthony Batiste
At one point in time, he was the tackle projected to start until Clady was fully healed. However, Zane Beadles has outplayed him and Stanley Daniels has played well enough at G to give Zane the green light at starting left tackle. Despite all of that, Batiste beat out Polumbus and we need depth at tackle. Zane can't be our only back up. So Batiste gets the nod. By the way, Stanley Daniels could end up being our smartest off season pick up. He is the best back up G we have and he could play a huge part of the o-line if Clady has any set backs.
G Seth Olsen
It is the same reason we are keeping D'Anthony Batiste. Seth hasn't been able to overtake any of the starters, but Stanley Daniels and Russ Hochstein cannot be our only depth at the position. It comes down to Seth Olsen and Eric Olsen. In all likelihood, seniority remains supreme and Seth makes the team. However, pay attention on Thursday. If Eric has a better day then Seth then Eric could easily make the team ahead of Seth.
CB/S Nate Jones
Nate Jones has gotten a lot of hype this off season. Plenty of people have complimented Jones due to his ability of playing safety. We brought him in to compete for time at the nickel. With Dawkins being advanced in age and McBath's lingering arm issue, we might have no other choice but to keep Jones.
So here is....
Nick Cast's Final Depth Chart
Offense
QB- Kyle Orton, Tim Tebow, Brady Quinn
RB- Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, LenDale White, Lance Ball
FB- Spencer Larsen
TE- Daniel Graham, Richard Quinn, Marques Branson,
WR 1- Demayrius Thomas, Brandon Lloyd
WR Slot- Eddie Royal,
WR 2- Jabar Gaffney, Matthew Willis, Eric Decker,
LT- Ryan Clady, (Zane Beadles), D'Anthony Batiste
LG- Zane Beadles, Stanley Daniels
C- J.D. Walton, Russ Hochstein
RG- Chris Kuper, Seth Olsen
RT- Ryan Harris, (D'Anthony Batiste)
Defense
LDE- Ryan McBean, Jarvis Green,
DT- Jamal Williams, Ronald Fields, (Marcus Thomas)
RDE- Justin Bannan, Marcus Thomas
OLB 1- Jarvis Moss, Baraka Atkins,
MLB- D.J. Williams, Wesley Woodyard,
MLB- Mario Haggan, Joe Mays,
OLB 2- Robert Ayers, Jason Hunter,
CB- Champ Bailey, Perrish Cox, Nate Jones
CB- Andre Goodman, Alphonso Smith, Syd'Quan Thompson
SS- Renaldo Hill, David Bruton,
FS- Brian Dawkins, Darcel McBath, (Nate Jones)
Special teams
K- Matt Prater
P- Britton Colquitt
LS- Lonnie Paxton
Practice Squad Eligible Players
RB Bruce Hall, TE Riar Greer, TE Nathan Overbay, WR Alric Arnett, WR Britt Davis, LG Eric Olsen, RT Paul Duncan, DE Ben Garland, DE Jeff Stehle, NT Chris Baker,OLB Jammie Kirlew, OLB Kevin Alexander MLB Worrell Williams, MLB Johnny Williams, CB Cassius Vaughn, SS Kyle McCarthy.
Final 8-Man Practice Squad Team
RB Bruce Hall
TE Riar Greer
OLB Jammie Kirlew
OLB Kevin Alexander
LG Eric Olsen
MLB Worrell Williams
CB Cassius Vaughn
SS Kyle McCarthy
Possible Surprise Cuts
DT Ronald Fields
He has not been impressive this pre season. In fact, there have been quite a few times I've seen him miss easy tackles. He could be cut in exchange for NT Chris Baker who is also pegged as a DE on the DenverBroncos.com depth chart.
SS Nate Jones
He has been brought in to play the nickel position. However, Perrish Cox has the nickel position locked up. I would also argue that we would be better suited to put Phonz ahead of Nate Jones. Jones is not our future at CB. Phonz (possibly) is. We should put Phonz at 4th on the depth chart, get him in there and get him valuable playing time. If Nate falls to 5th on our CB depth then we might cut Jones loose. Even better we might trade him. New England just put their starting CB on IR. They are weak on talent at the position. We might want to make a call to our favorite trade partners. Now, if we cut or trade Jones, we will have to put McCarthy on our PS. Nate Jones was our reassurance at safety. With Dawkins being advanced in years, and McBath having problems with his arm again, we need to have new reassurance if Jones is gone. If one of them has to miss extended time, we can elevate McCarthy from our PS. He is a very solid ST player.
OLB Baraka Atkins
Atkins has been seeing extended time at OLB. So why would we cut him? Well, it depends on how strongly McD feels about Darrell Reid. Reid is recovering from off season knee surgery. Reid is a veteran and has valuable experience in the 3-4. Additionally, Jammie Kirlew and Kevin Alexander are two young players who were performing well, but have disappeared a little bit recently. Atkins appears to have the inside track to win the back up job, but I am not 100% certain the job is his.
So there is your # 1 storyline heading into the game on Thursday. 25 players are fighting for about 4 spots on Thursday. Particularly pay attention to Nate Jones. His situation is very intriguing. He has been complimented all off season on how he is versatile. He had full articles written about him on the front page. Does that ring any bells for you? It should. It reminds me a lot of J.J. Arrington whose versatility (running back, special teams player) we complimented all the way up till we traded him to Philadelphia. Until next time, MHR brethren...
This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR
162 comments
|
14 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Is Dumervil on IR?
Otherwise, I don’t see any holes. There will be at least one or two surprise cuts, though, which will cause much gnashing of teeth. Watch other Broncos boards on cut day — when (if) Stokely gets the axe, there will be rioting. Even though most of us are predicting it, they will act like McDaniels waltzed in and personally punched their mothers in the face. :)
Stokes would be a free agent if released
No waver wire. We could sign him to a coaching job any day, if both sides were interested. He could just retire as a player and sign on for a job. Or, he could test the free agency market and see if anyone was interested in him as a player first. Of course, all that is assuming that either he, the Broncos, or both are interested in this type of arrangement.
I hate to see him go, but it will happen one day.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 7:28 AM MDT up reply actions
Yes Dumervil is on IR
I forgot to add that. My apologies.
Stokley is a great guy, but football is a business. Everyone knows that and anyone who has been following the Broncos at all knows that there is no room for him.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
He costs too much
Dangle him for for a late round pick in next year’s draft (6th or 7th?) before releasing him outright.
Washington might be interested
Shanny always loved Stokley…
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
If Doom to IR official?
Last I heard they were still waiting to establish a time-table for his recovery before making that decision, but maybe I missed some news…
You didn't miss anything
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
by 3nS on Sep 1, 2010 3:45 PM MDT up reply actions
Solid/practical picks
I’m betting you’ve nailed the roster pretty well.
"Peace, a journey without distance to a place we have never left."
thanks BroncoCUbuffs
I am betting there will be a couple surprises. I have an odd feeling we will keep Le Kevin Smith…
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Final roster looks right to me
Doesn’t the team have an “open” roster spot during LenDale’s suspension? I think it does — and it wouldn’t surprise me if the Stokely/Lloyd decision gets put off until then, at which point it could become a Stokely/Lloyd/Ball decision.
I don't think we can afford to let go of Ball
Knowshon hasn’t been healthy a whole year. Neither has Buckhalter. We need to keep Ball. I actually wouldn’t mind a LenDale/Ball pairing in the event both Knowshon and Buck were to miss a game.
We might keep Stokley on until White’s suspension is up. Although, I could easily see that spot being given to Chris Baker and letting him fight with Ronald Fields for that spot.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
White
will be on the reserved/suspended so you need to add a player.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
Baker/Stokley
immediately come to mind.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
NC..understand your Stokley want..but how do you keep him over another need?
Stokley would be 7th wr IMO. No st.
Vaughn with st, Kirlew/Alexander st and lb, Olsen?
This is tough huh?
Dumervil and Woodyard are uncutable...in my opinion. :)
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
We won't cut Doom
but I do believe IR is the best thing for him.
Woodyard isn’t quite at the level that D.J. and the others are at.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
argument against Dumervil on IR
IF he is 100% later in the season not only would he contribute but it would help him to get some game action in 2010. Otherwise he goes a year and a half with no live action. Yes we have to sacrifice another player but I think it’s worth it. Of course if the medical staff puts low odds on a full in season recovery, then IR would be smart.
I agree that Elvis should go on IR. No need to keep a guy on the roster that “might” in a best case scenario play in four games.
The Phonz needs to play a hell of a lot smarter and better on ST if he wants to see the field in the regular season. Cox is going to get the nickel action so our 4th CB is only going to see the field in dime and ST play. This is where Squid jumps to mind with his punt return skills.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
Or injury
If Champ or Goody has to miss a game here or there, he’ll be the 4th in line at worst, even with Squid ahead of him. I wonder who would move into the starting nickel spot in that case. For that matter, what will the actual depth chart look like?
Champ / Cox / Smith
Goody / ? / ?
Cox / Smith / Squid
Who is the backup #2? Is it Cox? And I’m not necessarily talking about just on paper, but the real-life depth (e.g., who plays if Goodman misses a game).
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 7:31 AM MDT up reply actions
Cox is the 3rd CB. Period. I don’t pigeon hole CBs in RCB, LCB or nickel CB. It’s covering a WR, it can be done on either side of the field or in the slot. The job is the same. It’s not like playing OT vs OG or ILB vs OLB.
Cox is the man for the #3 CB job. Thompson is the man for the dime spot and punt return. Both can play ST in coverage.
The Phonz has proven he sucks at ST play (can’t return kicks or punts, can’t diagnose trick plays and can’t stay onsides on the kickoff).
The only reason we should keep Phonz around is in case lighting strikes him, forcing him to wake up realizing that he is supposed to be a NFL caliber CB. He needs to prove he can cover WRs and make plays on the ball. Maybe more practice will help?
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
I disagree
Alphonso is the #4 CB based on his performance. I’d hope based on what Denver gave up to get him that he’d be pushing for a starting position. I accept that the draft choice was a bad choice. Yet, Smith hasn’t played as bad as some perceive. He is a solid backup, he has played better than Squid, Vaughn, and Jones. They also have been out of position and whiffed some tackles.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
by 3nS on Sep 1, 2010 12:43 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah
I think he’s in competition for #4, and I’d give it to him right now just on the fact that he has some regular-season in-game experience. Not much, but a little. Let Squid take that job if he wants it, though.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 1:23 PM MDT up reply actions
If Phonz didn’t suck at ST, I’d probably agree. But Phonz does suck something awful at ST and the #4 CB needs to be good at ST play because he won’t see the field much as a CB.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
have we seen him on kickoffs?
I don’t remember seeing him on kick coverage. Maybe he should try him out as a gunner?
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
He was offsides on the RETURN TEAM during a kickoff!
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
he isn't going to be on the return team
He can play the gunner on punt teams. It’s worth a shot. Cassius Vaughn is the gunner right now, but he likely won’t make the team. Phonz should try out for that gunner spot.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
We'll just have to disagree on Phonz...
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
Yeah the Dumervil question is a testy one
I tend to agree with you McG, but then the idea of a fully healthy Doom joining the party for the stretch run surfaces again and I’m sorely tempted to keep a chair warm for him. I just worry that given his style, there’s no way he’ll be fully effective this year coming off a torn pec. He, more than anyone on the team, except maybe the OL guys, needs that muscle impeccably functional to do his job.
Orton to Gaffney, all day long...
Right. What is the point of having a Elvis at 72% in December. He is crap vs the run so this scares me.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
So he can be 100 percent for early February
follow me on Twitter: @Sayre_Bedinger
Check me out on Facebook also
XBox LIVE gamer tag as suggested by XBox: SoppiestKibbles
yep....that's for real
by Sayre Bedinger on Sep 1, 2010 11:21 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I disagree completely on Elvis.
He is the one guy WORTH having back for four games and playoffs. The Phonz needs to be cut
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
I can’t lie, your distaste for the Phonz puts a smile on my face.
Even if I try to see him playing well, the reality is that Phonz is just playing okay. Even on his best days – like the Pitt game. The kid bats down a pass, misses a few tackles, makes no big plays of consequence (for good or bad) and everyone praising him.
Even with all the good MHR vibes and everyone rooting for the guy – in the end, I still don’t ever see this dude turning into anything more than an average nickel CB in the NFL. He has NEVER shown anything in the NFL to suggest his ceiling is higher than this.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
True
But that’s not worth being cut. He is still an NFL quality CB. Even if his ceiling is being a Nate Jones, who has already reached his ceiling, and Denver thought he was good enough to sign.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
I agree
We just don’t give up a guy in one season. Even McDaniels said it take two season for a player to adjust in the NFL. I’d say keep Phonz and Squid.
by OrangeBroncos on Sep 1, 2010 4:43 PM MDT up reply actions
Also...
FootballOutsiders did some research on how long it takes various positions to “click”. For CBs it was typically season 3… its probably part of the reason they are high on KC (Flowers, etc. taking the step from above average to very good)
As for Elvis. He “might” make it back for four games. It’s not worth it. Shut him down and see ya next year.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
agree
The way things are shaping up with injuries and depth, sixteen weeks of the 54th best player on the team could be more helpful to us this year than four weeks of Doom. I may be wrong, but I don’t see four weeks of Doom making the difference in getting us into the playoffs.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Sep 1, 2010 1:45 PM MDT up reply actions
Agree #2
Because all of the Dumervil talk is predicated on IF he can come back for 4 games (or even 2 or 3 games), which is still very questionable. And IF he can be at or very close to 100%, which he probably won’t be. And IF the Broncos are even in contention and need to risk bringing him back for 4 or fewer games, which I hope we are but is still an unknown as far as this conversation is concerned. So unless
We signed this guy to be our elite pass rusher for years to come. Not hold a very valuable spot on the team for this year in the hopes of rushing him back from injury to play in a handful or less of what could ultimately be meaningless games. So unless all of the scenarios above line up correctly (can come back in time to matter, is at or close to 100%, the Broncos are still in contention for the playoffs to make the risk worth it), and no one can say that they will, then give his spot to someone who can make a difference on the team this year (all year), even if the impact of that player is far less than Dumvervil’s, which it obviously would be.
Unless the coaches/management know something we don’t, this is a no brainer. “Shut him down and see ya next year.”
"Reality continues to ruin my life." - Calvin (Calvin & Hobbes)
by RockyMtnHigh on Sep 1, 2010 10:44 PM MDT up reply actions
The best argument that I could see for keeping him active.
I think that the only way I would be happy with the reason for taking up a roster spot is if they have a good reason to believe he’ll be back to practicing at closer to mid-way through the season. The way it’s been presented by experts so far is that 3 or maybe 4 weeks is the best we could hope for, though. I agree — bring him back dominant next season.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 2, 2010 5:05 AM MDT up reply actions
We play too many important games
in the beginning of the year to save a spot for Doom. We need all 53. I hope they shut him down for the year.
Doom coming back in December not in football shape isn’t going to do anything except increase his chances of getting hurt again.
Phonz needs a big play. Nobody was talkin about Syd’Quan until the game against Pittsburgh. Most people weren’t even sure he was gonna make the team. But he gets a pick six, has explosive returns and now he is likely to make the team. If Phonz can get an interception or a forced fumble or something, I believe the perspective on him will definitely change.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
So you'd rather have Phonz for 16+ games than Dumervil for 4+ games? :)
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
Dumervil for maybe 4 games playing at 70%, 74%, 78% and 83% doesn’t sound as good as Elvis for 4+ games.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
Ok, so you'd take Phonz for 16 games over Elvis at 70% for 4+ games? :)
I really don’t think that will change anyones mind. :)
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
I would rather have Phonz for 16+ games then a 75-85% Dumervil for 4+games. Even if he recovers from the injury, he wont’ be in football shape.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Really? I haven't seen anything from Phonz that inspires me this preseason...
I was quite hopeful too, but its time to move on.
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
It would be foolish
to move on after 1 injured season and 2 off seasons. He hasn’t even had time to mature yet.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
He hasn't even progressed...
I guess we keep him like we kept Jarvis Moss…still not too confident he has “IT”
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
That’s 16 penalties on special teams you don’t need to take.
Your 2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche: Reaching Up to the Cap Floor
by Bob in Boulder on Sep 1, 2010 5:58 PM MDT up reply actions
he has had 1 special teams penalty
it was incredibly stupid, but it’s not fair to say he will get penalties every game.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
To be even more fair, he was the first person in NFL history to commit this penalty. lol
Don’t fact check…I am judging by only the small sample of NFL games I have watched in my lifetime(which is only a couple thousand). ;P
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
Iirc, he had two in one quarter last season. Both on special teams.
Your 2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche: Reaching Up to the Cap Floor
by Bob in Boulder on Sep 1, 2010 10:38 PM MDT up reply actions
honestly
that penalty wasn’t as bad as it looked. on other kickoffs, even in the most recent game, other players have run up to the 10-yard-mark and then curved parallel same as alphonso did. Alphonso just misjudged it by a yard. Mistake, sure, but it’s not the dramatic “block the kickoff!” numnutz move that some have made it out to be.
I wish I could have seen that play live so that I could judge for myself
Smith detractors present it like a mentally challenged kid was allowed to run a play with his favorite team and had no idea what the object was, but apologists (of which I am one) downplay it as a slight distance misjudgment or not that big of an issue. Anyone have a video of that play to share?
by BroncosBassist on Sep 2, 2010 5:08 AM MDT up reply actions
If you want honesty. It was that bad.
There are white lines on the field and in the case of the kickoff, they tell you exactly where you can and can’t stand. How do you misjudge something like that? And it’s not like it was a barely kind of thing. I watched the play at least 5 times and Phonz was a good 3 yards offside when the ball was kicked, he’d crossed the 40 and was near the 37.
It was a total brain fart. If that had been a regular season game, I’d bet good money that several NFL teams that would cut him for such a mindless offense.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
Bena: When is Nick getting his own article(s) on the front page?
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
by McGeorge on Sep 1, 2010 7:29 AM MDT reply actions 2 recs
They should at least be promoted some of the time
Even if there’s no room ‘on staff’ for him at present.
Speaking of which, where’s the Dude and HT? Haven’t seen anything from either of them in a while.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 7:32 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
I miss those guys the most
"Bombs dropping down overhead. Underground. It's instilled to want to live." -EV
Styg, Lebowski and HT..
I very much enjoyed all their articles, and didn’t really hear anything about the absence, hope they are all ok and will be back to contribute again during the season.
by HorseStance on Sep 1, 2010 9:58 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions 2 recs
I Totally agree
Where’s the dude? I miss his Mail Sack
by OrangeBroncos on Sep 1, 2010 10:12 AM MDT up reply actions
I think I've seen Styg kicking around in comments.
Didn’t I? Maybe…
Come to think of it, it’s been a while since I’ve seen Doc post, either. Is there a secret MHR alum retreat that we aren’t privy to? :)
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 10:37 AM MDT up reply actions
Yeah...I haven't seen Styg lately
But I remember seeing some comments from him recently at least.
"Bombs dropping down overhead. Underground. It's instilled to want to live." -EV
He is undoubtly in the Alaskan bush...Summers are short up there and he has much to do I imagine.
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
think i saw him a few weeks ago.
Can’t remember which thread.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Sep 1, 2010 1:47 PM MDT up reply actions
Doc has been around recently. He hates me in his own gentle way and thinks I’ve ruined MHR. I’m sure you’ll see him around in the next few days.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
Being hated by Doc would be better than being loved by a lot of guys.
He’s just too nice. :)
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 1:25 PM MDT up reply actions
Amen, brotha.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Sep 1, 2010 1:46 PM MDT up reply actions
C’MON! Do you have any facts about Doc coming around in the next couple of days?!
Just kidding, doc. I do like it when you and doc banter and he criticizes you for your “crazy” opinions…which btw I dont always agree with, but you do seem to get under his skin.
Always remember Goliath was a 40 point favorite over David.
-- Shug Jordan
by Orange and Blue on Sep 1, 2010 6:18 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Guys like Ted B and NYC leave, guys like Sayre and Nick appear. Maybe there were good ole days of MHR, but I think Doc Bear goes a little too “Leave it to Beaver” on me.
When people disagree, it rarely plays out without a little contention. I think it’s good for the soul.
Denver: 32-32 until we're not.
Do you have any facts.....
LOL – man that killed me…. Rec’d for working my face and ab muscles. Thanks for that
That's quite a long handle there, G Funk. - That's what she said.
First (and only, in our lifetimes) team to three consecutive SB wins!!!! ( =
by PearlJamBroncoGFunk on Sep 2, 2010 3:24 PM MDT up reply actions
would love to see some more MHR-U stuff from Steve
as this year’s scheme tweaks become evident.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Sep 1, 2010 1:50 PM MDT up reply actions
Stokley's replacement
Perhaps Stokley’s skills in the slot and as a clutch 3rd down specialist will be taken over by Eric Decker. That and much more.
Decker could play at any WR position.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
I hope he plays so well that he's starting early in the year!
Officially on record with a 10-6 prediction for 2010! (8/21/10)
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence."
John Adams
Royal for now
I think Decker is a great #2 guy…. When/if he is, and Thomas as the #1… We’re gonna be smokin’ some pass defenses… Heck, with either of the two as the #2, and Gaffney as the #1 and Royal in the slot We’re gonna be. WR is far from a concern for the Broncos, and I am loving it!
That's quite a long handle there, G Funk. - That's what she said.
First (and only, in our lifetimes) team to three consecutive SB wins!!!! ( =
by PearlJamBroncoGFunk on Sep 2, 2010 3:29 PM MDT up reply actions
Keeping Stokley....
Copied and pasted from my post on the other very good roster thread. Both rec’d.
I say we need to keep Stokley.
Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, DT’s foot problem may linger all year.
Decker’s foot problem could get re-aggravated.
Lloyd has a history of looking excellent in preseason, and disappearing in the regular season.
Stokley is, simply put, and insurance policy on the above issues. Granted he has his own bumps and bruises, but you can’t argue with the consistency of play in BIG situations. He’s also a great mentor for the young guys. Remember when he called Decker last year after he got hurt? That just doesn’t happen very often in this day and age.
So, who do I propose we cut to keep him? In order of preference, I’d go with:
Pick one of Hochstein, Daniels or Olsen. Can you really say they are in the "best 53" ahead of Stokes?
Nate Jones. Has missed some key tackles in the preseason and is average but versatile.
Perhaps with the White suspension, we could keep Stokes at least long enough to make sure one of the above concerns doesn’t happen.
If we do cut Stokley, I’d highly recommend he be signed as a coach. In an emergency, he could always "un-retire" LOL.
Officially on record with a 10-6 prediction for 2010! (8/21/10)
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence."
John Adams
lol
Love the unretire angle. I’d actually be in favor of putting Doom on IR to keep Stokley on the field. His experience and savvy is too important to the development of our young WRs to let him walk this year. Next year, maybe.
In good times and bad times, I'm a Bronco fan. Sucka.
by broncosmontana on Sep 1, 2010 1:52 PM MDT up reply actions
We won't keep Stokley
Matthew Willis is better and more productive then Stokley. If Stokley were to make the team, it would be as the 7th WR. However, McD has stated that the 7th WR better be a ST contributor which Stokley is not.
We need Hoch for his backup center experience.
We really need Daniels since he is the only guard to show he can step up if called upon.
Olsen is the only one I wouldn’t mind getting rid of, but then your asking the o-line to lose depth just so Stokley can sit at 7th WR and likely not play in many games.
Not worth it IMO.
I say we trade him if possible. I’m sure Shanny would love to have Stokley’s 3rd down abilities in Washington.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
PUP for DT??
Is this a possibilty? Give DT six weeks to heal up – and by then have a good handle on Brandon Lloyd.
TIME TO BELIEVE. BRONCO Champions are being forged as we speak
Nope
You can’t go to PUP if you practiced in training camp.
Reid is our only PUP eligible player.
by black_knight101 on Sep 1, 2010 9:44 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
See... this is what I don't understand.
I was looking at the NFL Transaction report from yesterday, and a bunch of teams put players onto the PUP.
Here are all the PUP listed transactions for 8/30 and 8/31.
Lions → Jack Williams (CB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Steelers → Chris Scott (T) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (foot).
Ravens → Brendon Ayanbadejo (LB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (torn left quadriceps).
Ravens – > Matt Lawrence (RB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Giants → Kevin Boothe (G) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (torn pectoral).
Panthers → Thomas Davis (LB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (torn right acl).
Eagles → Victor Abiamiri (DE) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Vikings → Sidney Rice (WR) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (hip).
Cowboys → Stephen Hodge (LB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Packers → Al Harris (CB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Packers → Atari Bigby (S) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (ankle).
Packers → James Starks (RB) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (hamstring).
Bengals → Tom Nelson (S) Placed on the physically unable to perform list (knee).
Your telling me none of them practiced in training camp? Or am I missing something?
Quit drinking the Kool-Aid and start drinking the good stuff, and everything is always alright.
by Chuck "DeadDrunk" Breedlove on Sep 1, 2010 12:29 PM MDT up reply actions
I questioned that too
I"m thinking that this is some kind of inactive PUP list that once the season starts they will have to be cut or put on IR or put on the team.
I don’t know the advantages of waiting unless the teams are waiting to see if they get any injuries in the last game and need the guy later on.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
Correct — none of those players participated in camp. They are being moved from Active PUP to Reserve PUP.
I will go through the first few for you:
Jack Williams: Williams has been sidelined since injuring a knee in his first game with the Lions last season
Chris Scott:Scott injured his foot prior to the start of training camp and has yet to practice with the team. He underwent surgery for the injury
Ayanbadejo: Injured leg last season
Lawrence: Lawrence injured his knee in late November
The reason you see it for those dates is due to teams having to get under the 75 player cutline.
These players can come back, at the earliest, after 6 weeks of the season.
I agree with almost everything you said...
Except I don’t think Brandon Lloyd is fighting for a roster spot at all. He’s been running with the first team all camp, and with question marks around when Thomas will be back, no chance he gets cut.
by black_knight101 on Sep 1, 2010 9:43 AM MDT via mobile reply actions
I dont agree`
I dont agree. They can put any of the other receivers over there if DT can not play soon. I think it is between him and Stokely for the final receiver spot due to special teams considerations.
Lloyd is fighting for a spot
because he is not a ST contributor just like Stokley. It is him vs Stokley for the 6th spot, and I believe Lloyd wins that battle.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
AND REC !!
Great – post. Concise, detailed and well thought out.
TIME TO BELIEVE. BRONCO Champions are being forged as we speak
Thanks Broncobh!
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
I agree with the possible exception of this...
WR 1- Demayrius Thomas, Brandon Lloyd
DT is a rookie who held out and then got injured on the 1 and only week he was at training camp. He has not played a single down of football for this team and has not earned a starting spot.
Lloyd or Willis have earned that spot.
Are you suggesting they cut the #1 draft choice because he was injured?
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 10:51 AM MDT up reply actions
I think.........
he means that Thomas shouldn’t be the starter, which is true.
CHARACTER, INTELLIGENCE, and HARD WORK often beats TALENT but what happens when you load up on all 4???????????
Ah
I didn’t read TOO much into the relative WR string listings. Sorry about the reading comprehension fail. I agree that Thomas might win the starting role by season’s end, but he hasn’t yet.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 11:02 AM MDT up reply actions
DT has not won because he has been injured
If he stays healthy, he will easily beat Lloyd.
So for right now, yes Lloyd is ahead of DT since DT isn’t even playing.
But once DT is healthy, Lloyd will surely drop behind him.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
re: DT's purported holdout
.
.DT is a rookie who held out
No, there was no holdout,
The length of the bargaining process is the result of the current arrangement between teams and agents. Later picks are signed first and high picks last. This topic was discussed thoroughly when picks were being signed.
Offhand, I can’t think of a single holdout this year. There were a few last year, however.
It’s a misuse of language to refer to routine bargaining as a “holdout.” Even worse, the teams themselves are contributing to the delay, because they don’t want the players focused on shopping sprees rather than football. Our signings this year went quite smoothly, although some fans who are unaware of the process didn’t realize that. I think it’s unfortunate that the process has been pushed into the start of camp, but it’s not the fault of any of this year’s top picks or their agents (nor the teams).
NFP does a particularly good job on this subject. Jack Bechta’s Agent’s Journal provides an agent’s perspective and Andrew Brandt’s The Bu$$iness of Football provides a football executive’s perspective.
"the megalomaniac view of oneself as the Elect, wholly good, abominably persecuted, yet assured of ultimate triumph; the attribution of gigantic and demonic powers to the adversary; the refusal to accept the ineluctable limitations and imperfections of human existence, such as transience, dissention, conflict, fallibility whether intellectual or moral; the obsession with inerrable prophecies…systematized misinterpretations, always gross and often grotesque." – Norman Cohn - quoted in The Paranoid Style in American Politics
by Colinski on Sep 2, 2010 11:27 AM MDT up reply actions 2 recs
I noticed the same misconception from miner....
Thanks for reaffirming my lack of insanity in this matter. ( =
That's quite a long handle there, G Funk. - That's what she said.
First (and only, in our lifetimes) team to three consecutive SB wins!!!! ( =
by PearlJamBroncoGFunk on Sep 2, 2010 3:34 PM MDT up reply actions
Yes, it was all about the contract crap, but the effect is the same.
The kid came late to camp and then got hurt. That is all I was saying.
Lloyd is in, Willis only makes it if Thomas or Stokely can't go.
We’ve got WR’s, Thomas and Stokely, who can’t go. So much depends though on their availability and medical prognoses. About a week to go on that! That will determine the who on wideouts. Thomas looked terrific in camp, and they’d love to have him out there, but can he go? PUP looks like a good scenario. I think Willis may become a nice receiver, but McD won quite a few games with Stokely and picked up many a third down. What does Willis give you besides profound inexperience that you don’t get from Royal, Decker or Lloyd? I just don’t see a three rookie receiver scenario anywhere. If Stokely is ready to go day one, practice squad Willis, and if you can’t, you probably haven’t lost a thing. If Thomas is not ready, Willis stays.
With the return men looking like Cox and Squid, there probably will be nine DB’s including Jones, but I can’t see McD with fewer than six wideouts including Thomas. McBath’s availability to play is not as key. So I think Nate Jones, who has played okay but with a nice mean streak, can chill: we will probably cut deeper elsewhere.
Fields and Baker. With Bannan playing third down nose, Thomas getting reps and looking competent as a backup third down nose, I can see your scenario where Fields gets cut. Baker is a healthy prospect who isn’t getting paid anything, perhaps they dump Fields, maybe for contract reasons. On the other hand, McD won a few games with Fields at nose tackle and wouldn’t get too scary if Jamal Wms. goes down. But I have a sense that Fields came to Denver to start, and has proven himself to be a non-answer (see Jamal Wms. trade) so there is that dynamic.
I like Greer and Alexander on the P.S. Both those guys are raw, but that Greer is a tough s.o.b. and had a decent start v. the Steelers. I appreciate that he took down the bully Harrison, enabling Walton to hit him in the head on the way down. Alexander looks strong and may be a decent prospect. The rest are generic, I guess I’d rummage other teams’ cuts. There must be people the Broncos had on the draft board who did not make the cut in other situations.
Atkins, Hunter and Moss. This is a situation in flux. Atkins was brought here to sub Doom and Ayers. Now he is behind Moss, am I correct? Then he is not such a lock. I’m not sure they are too sold on Moss either. This does not look like finalized at all. And I can see two of these guys out of here.
"Kool-Aid Kool Aid, Tastes Great, We Want Kool Aid, Can't Wait"
by littletinybroncos on Sep 1, 2010 10:50 AM MDT reply actions
You can’t PUP Thomas. If he’s not ready, he either takes a roster spot, goes on IR, or is cut. IR is the only way he makes room for anyone else, because he’s not getting cut. I also don’t think his current status is so bad that he won’t be back in a week or three. I think it would be a terrible move to cut Willis due to the production he’s shown this season. He’s not a rookie, so your argument about 3 rookie WR is not valid. He’s fought his way off the PS, and in the opinion of a lot of people, has earned his spot on the 53-man roster. The only way we can keep all these guys is if we keep 7 WR on the roster. Didn’t happen last year, but I guess it could happen this year. the problem is that we have a lot of guys who need a roster spot saved (White, Dumervil, and Thomas, to name 3). A crowded secondary could use a 10 spot, too, though I think we’ll see a semi-surprise cut back there and keep only 9.
Who is cut to make room for Nate Jones? Smith? I’ve seen it suggested, but I don’t necessarily like cutting potential for Jones at this point.
I really don’t see anyone taking Moss’s starting OLB position — they wouldn’t have moved Mario back inside if they didn’t think Jarvis could do it. Better to have him rotate in with Ayers and deal with a little less ideal situation at LILB. Atkins and Hunter probably make the team as the second team OLB, but I"m curious what is done about Reid and Dumervil. I’d still IR Doom and put Reid on the PUP, dealing with that when he comes off (week 6?).
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 11:00 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
true.
But when he comes back, someone has to go… So someone on the roster is temporary.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 11:07 AM MDT up reply actions
That's true
But if anyone goes on IR over the first 4 weeks, that issue takes care of itself.
You are kidding yourself about Willis
He’s playing great football right now. I think he makes the team.
And if they try to put him on the PS, he will get picked off the waiver wire.
"Bombs dropping down overhead. Underground. It's instilled to want to live." -EV
by sadaraine on Sep 1, 2010 11:35 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
Two guys that will never make it to the PS based on preseason games that might be worth putting there are Thompson and Willis. The second either of those guys are waived, they’ll be grabbed by someone.
Actually, I’m not sure that I’d want them on the PS — They’ve both earned their roster spots, IMHO. Especially Willis.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 1:27 PM MDT up reply actions
Well
Matthew Willis has been playing great football. He has been a VERY reliable target. On top of that, he is a ST contributor that Stokley is not. If it comes down to Willis and Stokley, I easily pick Willis. Willis is a young guy with potential. Stokley is in his final year or 2.
There is no way we cut 2 from Atkins Hunter and Moss. I would be shocked if we cut just 1.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Can Thomas come back from IR?
"Kool-Aid Kool Aid, Tastes Great, We Want Kool Aid, Can't Wait"
by littletinybroncos on Sep 1, 2010 11:03 AM MDT reply actions
Thanks for setting me straight.
Like I say, if Willis isn’t the return man, what does he offer in our scenario, which is win now.
"Kool-Aid Kool Aid, Tastes Great, We Want Kool Aid, Can't Wait"
by littletinybroncos on Sep 1, 2010 11:05 AM MDT reply actions
Speed, lack of injury history, and upside over Stokes
Stokely provides experience and historical production. It comes down to what you need most. My preference is for the former. I love Stokely and will be sad to see him go. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him get cut, but I also wouldn’t be shocked to see him make the cut either. I think we lose something whether we dump him or we dump Willis.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 11:10 AM MDT up reply actions
Allright, I think you and I have talked this out
We may never know they why of it when it happens, but I don’t think there are too many more quality arguments to be made on the roster. This blog was good dialogue, and its a tribute to us at MHR.
So, is the bass playing a full time job. It’s a hobby for me. What kind of setup do you have? My style is retro danceable classic rock and r&B. I have my dream bass and a very nice stack. Got a new band going, we are trying to get our thing to gel as a three piece, and then see if we can recruit some additional talent.
"Kool-Aid Kool Aid, Tastes Great, We Want Kool Aid, Can't Wait"
by littletinybroncos on Sep 1, 2010 1:35 PM MDT up reply actions
Agree
Bass is entirely a hobby (and one I’ve not had time to devote to lately). Right now I’ve got an ESP 4-stringer (with a Hipshot detuner on it) and a Fender practice amp. My skillz are non-existent, and the handle was something that just happened one day when I was trying to register. :)
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 2:16 PM MDT up reply actions
I love listening to a hot bass!
I’m an avid Swing Dancer and nothing gets me hopping more than a good stand-up bassist slapping those strings and guiding my feet to the fanciest moves imaginable. I know you guys aren’t talking about stand-ups, but hey, without you, who’d be keeping the beat I’d be bopping to?
Would love to hear you guys jam sometime.
First they ignore you.
They then laugh at you.
Then they fight you.
Then, you win.
--Gandhi
by Santa Fe Bronc on Sep 1, 2010 3:44 PM MDT up reply actions
Just One Tweak
Rec’d
McD has repeatedly said he felt that the team wore down last season and that’s why the D gave up so many big runs. Because of this I think Baker is definitely in. He’s a big body who’ll be fresh, especially if J. Will shows the signs of his age or injuries.
Who’s spot does he take? Either LenDale’s if his spot doesn’t count for the 1st four weeks, or else Nate Jones, since we have a lot of youth behind him, as well as possibly on the PS. One of the young CBs, probably Squid, will be asked to fill his spot if necessary.
One thing I don’t get is why the community is so down on Brandon Lloyd. I believe that his is a story of redemption. I get the felling that his understanding of the game, and his role to be productive in it has finally clicked. I expect to see him be awesome this year.
I also think Doom will end up on IR, as the Coaches will realize that the risk/reward of holding a spot for him, especially after 2 preseason games with multiple sacks registered by Ayers, Moss & Hunter/Mays, is just to great.
And here’s a Mile High Salute to say good-bye to Stokes. We love you Brandon. Can I hear an Amen.
First they ignore you.
They then laugh at you.
Then they fight you.
Then, you win.
--Gandhi
Lloyd, Willis, Baker
I agree that Lloyd looks great. He’s not going anywhere. Same with Willis. Baker is a big question mark for me. I think he’s got to stay. He and J. Will are the only NTs we have that consistently command double-teams. But Baker isn’t getting the playing time. Didn’t play much in the first 2 games, and although I think I say him on the sidelines (I was across the field behind the visitors’ bench) suited up for Pittsburgh, I don’t recall him getting in at all. Unless he’s fighting an injury, he seems to be in the dog house, which doesn’t bode well for his making the team. Personally, I’d rather see him in there than Fields or M. Thomas.
Does anyone know what’s going on with Baker and the lack of playing time?
IN HIDING?
Thursday Night will help with the answer on Baker. The thought occured to me after game three that possibly McD is hiding Baker to slide him onto the PS. He is the Ghost of training camp..no talk about him from the Broncos or the media, and only in on a handful of plays so far this PreSeason. Hence, no ability of any other team to make an informed decision on his abilities this year.
TIME TO BELIEVE. BRONCO Champions are being forged as we speak
by Broncobh on Sep 1, 2010 3:13 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
That's an interesting slant on the Baker situation...
craftiness in the NFL.
Should find out tonight if he get’s playing time or not. :)
Officially on record with a 10-6 prediction for 2010! (8/21/10)
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence."
John Adams
It was hard to cut Baker
but he hasn’t shown to much in the pre season. I could see him being kept in favor of Ronald Fields. Fields hasn’t impressed much either.
Amen.
Love you stokes.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Nice job Nick. But I dont agree on Baker. 3-4 NT are as rare as hens teeth, and Baker is YOUNG. I think we keep him.
You, my friend, are proof you dont need to have big floppy feet and a red nose to be a clown!
"I actually watched the World Cup. I HATE baseball. Hockey’s over. Hey, at least we have the WNBA. Oh, man. I’m making a noose. Want one?"
Harv Neptune.
It's not that I'm down on Lloyd, just cautiously optimistic.
You can’t deny his history on the field. He looks great one day, and then drops passes I could catch the next day. You can’t ignore this, but the fact that he’s been starting means one of 2 things:
1) He’s just keeping the spot warm for DT when he comes back.
2) McD believes what he’s seeing, and thinks consistency is a non-factor at this time.
I truly hope it’s number 2!!
Officially on record with a 10-6 prediction for 2010! (8/21/10)
"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence."
John Adams
One thing I noticed about Baker was that he seems to "get vertical alot".
I was really hoping for a strong showing from him, but alot of what i’ve seen has been him standing up instead of that initial “burst” into the backfield that I’ve seen from Fields, Thomas, etc.
That's the problem with Fields and Thomas!
In a 3-4, the NT should not be bursting through gaps to get into the backfield. The NT should be engaging a couple of offensive linemen and standing them up. That frees up the linebackers to shoot gaps and make tackles. Watch the Patriots and tell me how often Vince Wilfork “bursts” into the backfield.
Baker always was a raw prospect
he offers more upside then Ronald Fields IMO
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Nice post!
Agreed on most, but I think we either trade or waive Jones, put Doom on IR, and keep Vaughn for his special teams skills.
It's "just" football
vaughn ST
I was rewatching some of the last game and when The punt team pinned the Steelers within the 5 yardline, it was Vaugn that kept his lane and force the returner back into Bruton and then Moss, yes Moss, took the middle away. I think it was Vaugn that made the play though. So I can see keeping him for ST.
"Ben Roethlisburger is screwed up, he uses bathrooms for sex and golf courses for bathrooms." Unknown
by 3nS on Sep 1, 2010 1:34 PM MDT up reply actions
thanks donkhead
Trade/waive Jones is a possibility, but definitely not certain.
Doom should go to IR. Let him heal, we’ll see him next year.
Vaughn should go to our PS simply for his ST play. He is one of the best.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Fantastic work, Nick!
Only thing I disagree with is your practice squad. I don’t think all our players would clear waivers, and we’re almost always assured to have claimed someone from another team for the PS. I think we might look for another RB gem on the waiver wire for the PS from another team.
follow me on Twitter: @Sayre_Bedinger
Check me out on Facebook also
XBox LIVE gamer tag as suggested by XBox: SoppiestKibbles
yep....that's for real
Thanks Sayre
I did about 3 different versions of the PS.
Bruce Hall could very well be picked up. He has had a solid off season. Same With Eric Olsen, Jammie Kirlew, and Kevin Alexander.
So I’m just hoping that we get these guys, keep them in the system, and see them progress
But I certainly won’t shed too many tears for them if they get picked up by another team.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
I think the reason we would keep Baker is due to Jamal’s age and uncertain health status [although he has been fine for the most part so far]. He also will get limited reps — I just think that we almost have to keep another backup at that spot.
I'm all aboard for keeping Baker
but someone has to go instead of him and I’m not sure who that will be.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Here's Me going way out on a limb
I think there’s at least a 50% chance Jarvis Moss gets cut.
He has been insanely bad against the run. Actually, I think that’s understating it.
I realize this may seem . . . a tad goofy souding. However, I’m putting it out there.
If Jarvis plays like he did against the Steelers, then I think he has a chance of getting dumped.
what? he played well the last 2 games!
You, my friend, are proof you dont need to have big floppy feet and a red nose to be a clown!
"I actually watched the World Cup. I HATE baseball. Hockey’s over. Hey, at least we have the WNBA. Oh, man. I’m making a noose. Want one?"
Harv Neptune.
Think about it...Jarvis is a converted DE....
he wants to rush the QB and he has been blowing containment, but that is something he is working on. We gotta give him time to develop into a good OLB.
It’s hard to break what has been taught to you for your entire career. Get after the QB son, get after the QB son, get after the QB son, to get after the QB, but don’t break containment. Whoops!
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
If Jarvis is cut
I will go swimming butt naked in pirahna infested waters
Now that is a vote of confidence.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
You must not value something quite valuable to the male psyche. :)
just playin
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
Pressure
Are you talking about the play where he, Smith, and Ayers chased down Dixon (with Ayers finally getting the sack), or was there a second?
by BroncosBassist on Sep 1, 2010 8:57 PM MDT up reply actions
Someone was in Flozell's head, and it could have been Jarvis.
But to be fair, my Mother could get in that guy’s head, and her scouting report doesn’t mention her speed rush as one of her strengths.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 2, 2010 5:09 AM MDT up reply actions
Jarvis was in his head
The announcer mentioned — I realize announcers can be tools, but I think he was right about this — that Flozell is really bothered by speed rushers and tries to get a jump, and sometimes gets too much of one. One look at him back pedaling in pass pro and you can see why. It’s an ugly sight, like a buffalo trying to run backwards.
"Surprised to see you, Captain, though pleased." — from Star Trek episode Space Seed.
buffalo trying to run backwards
Ouch. I’ve been called similar.
by BroncosBassist on Sep 2, 2010 9:16 AM MDT up reply actions
Was he bad against the run by performance or scheme?
basically, was he missing tackles, or getting pushed too far upfield and the back cutting back between the LT and LG?
If the former, I agree we could see him cut….
If the latter, I think you’re missing the fact that he’s playing 1-gap (outside), and as long as the RB is going on the inside shoulder of the LT, he’s doing his job. An edge rusher’s #1 primary task is to get a quick step to the outside and get upfield/around to the QB. Sure, its great when they can spin/rip back inside and make the run play… but thats not their job.
If runs are going outside between the LT/LG, you should be looking at the RDE (who likely is 2-gapping on the LG), the WILB, or the weakside safety/corner (whoever has short-zone responsibility)….
you are really getting good, Nick. rec’d. the analysis was well done. I dont agree on all (Baker), but I think you presented well.
Is there a priority process of waivers? Or does anyone get a shot at someone as soon as they’re waived?
Always remember Goliath was a 40 point favorite over David.
-- Shug Jordan
Thanks O and B
I appreciate it.
Like I said before, I could easily see Baker making the team, but I don’t know whose place he would take.
I believe it goes by record from last year. So Rams would get first choice and so on and so forth.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
I didn't have time to read everyone's comment's (though I did read many) but:
Unless somebody’s already mentioned it. White’s suspension hold of four weeks is going to basically going to give Denver (if they go this route) an additional 4 weeks to make the decision on Dumervil. Which – assuming they have the most up-to-date info on Doom and it’s still not enough info – I think they will do. That extra rosterspot for 4 weeks will likely go to Doom, unless there is a heavy feeling that he’s going to IR by the staff. If he does, then I would say that extra roster spot goes to Nate Jones (for the very reason’s you mentioned about Dawkins’/Hill’s age and McBath still recovering – which should get handled in four weeks).
That being said, I can’t deny your thoughts about New England is a likely trade partner for Jones – it’s highly likely. I would hope we don’t lose 2 safteties to them in the same few weeks, but who knows. It all depends on how comfortable we are with our safety position given the fact that we’ve got two adequate Nickelbacks in Smith and Cox, which either one could step in at safety for a limited time without us suffering too badly. It’s going to be an interesting week, that’s for sure!
Great thoughts. I’ve now to go ponder my own roster makeup to post before tomorrow.
"It is better to be rougly right than precisely wrong." - John Maynard Keynes
I'm almost kind of thinking that:
If Doom goes to IR… and Jones get’s traded/cut, that Kirlew/Alexander will pick up the spot. The extra linebacker gives us another strong ST player, as well has more rotation for our LB corps – which will need the help with Doom out for the season on IR – ESPECIALLY if any get injured. Right now they’ve been rotating guys as it is – if one get’s injured we’re going to need an additional OLB. Kirlew and Alexander make the most sense because they are strong contenders at that spot as well as guys that are unlikely to make it to our Practice squad (given the increasing need for well-balanced OLB’s in the league with so many teams running 3-4s).
"It is better to be rougly right than precisely wrong." - John Maynard Keynes
by Alexander Wall on Sep 1, 2010 10:37 PM MDT up reply actions
Well
my feeling is that if we trade Nate Jones, it’s because NE wants a CB not a safety. I think a 6th round pick for Jones sounds about right.
If we trade Jones, that gives us 1 extra roster spot, I think that we keep Chris Baker. Jamal Williams is advanced in years and I’m not comfortable with having just Ronald Fields as our NT. I would like to keep Baker. I’ve been thinking of who we could cut so we can keep him. It’s going to be tight.
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
The more I think about it
The more Baker staying makes sense. I think we have to rid of a DB somehow. Nate Jones and Syd’Quan Thompson are probably playing for their roster lives tomorrow night. I wonder if the coaching staff hopes one of them gets hurt ;)
follow me on Twitter: @Sayre_Bedinger
Check me out on Facebook also
XBox LIVE gamer tag as suggested by XBox: SoppiestKibbles
yep....that's for real
by Sayre Bedinger on Sep 1, 2010 11:27 PM MDT up reply actions
Or Alphonso Smith
I guess…I find it hard to believe he could be cut. Even Jamarcus the Hutt was given three years.
follow me on Twitter: @Sayre_Bedinger
Check me out on Facebook also
XBox LIVE gamer tag as suggested by XBox: SoppiestKibbles
yep....that's for real
by Sayre Bedinger on Sep 1, 2010 11:28 PM MDT up reply actions
I agree
I was thinking about that a lot today. I don’t see us cutting Baker and keep 10 DB’s. You might actually be right. Maybe Nate Jones plays the whole game tomorrow in hopes that he gets hurt. Or maybe he has a great game, and we trade him on Friday to New England.
I seriously, seriously doubt Phonz gets cut. Phonz is a better CB then Squid…that’s why Phonz has seen a lot more time in nickel and dime packages then Squid.
I want to keep them all, but I really hope Denver is making that call to New England…
Last Name: Ever, First Name: Greatest
Nobody Runs On The Denver Broncos
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
It is going to be tough...
I too want to keep Baker.. Because of all the tight competition this year, I am debating even posting a Roster at all, I know i’ll be way off on a lot of positions.
I like all the DB’s on our roster (and REALLY like a several of them), which sucks because several half to be cut. Baker has lots of promise and potential, but we won’t keep him if he doesn’t offer production right now. We’ll see. There are several players i’m going to be watching carefully thursday night. Baker is one of them, so are our LBs and DBs.
"It is better to be rougly right than precisely wrong." - John Maynard Keynes
by Alexander Wall on Sep 2, 2010 2:00 AM MDT up reply actions
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Getting Social With MHR
Web Stuff
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- Cliff Avril didn’t mean that thing he said about other teams contacting him
- From Cam to RGIII, and the weird psychology of draft analysis
- UCLA comes down with a case of Tebowmania
- Ellen tries to get Kate Upton to confirm Mark Sanchez is her boyfriend
- Sore loser Bully Ray spits beer in the face of Brandon Jacobs
Certain photos copyright © 2012 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
