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When the Broncos signed free agent QB Peyton Manning, the Broncos receivers were put on notice. Under Manning, alot is expected from this young group. The average age of the 2012 Denver Broncos receivers is 25.5 years of age. That average is including the 36 year old Brandon Stokley. So Manning will have to put his trust into these young inexperienced players to make plays for him.
Returning to the Broncos for the 2012 season are WR's Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, Matt Willis, Mark Dell, and Greg Orton. The Broncos did add a few more weapons for Manning at the WR position. The Broncos signed Free Agent WR's Andre Caldwell and former Bronco Brandon Stokley, who gave us this moment that will go down as one of the more exciting plays in Denver Broncos history.
Decker had a great 1st half of the season for the Broncos in 2011, in weeks 1-9, Decker had 33 catches for 406 yards, but had a poor 2nd half of the season only totaling 11 catches for 206 yards. Decker did finish the season with 44 catches for 612 yards receiving. Now his poor 2nd half of the season could be blamed on Tim Tebow, but that's another argument for another day!
Now lets look forward to the 2012 season. The Broncos added Peyton Manning, and Manning loves receivers who can run good routes and catch the ball well, that is Eric Decker in a nutshell. I expect a big year for Decker. A 100+ catch season with 1000+ yards receiving is not out of the question. I wouldn't be surprised one bit if Eric Decker makes the Pro-Bowl in 2012. So obviously i have high expectations for Eric Decker in 2012.
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 50 | 718 | -- | 56 | 9 | 1 | 1 | -- | 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 | |||
| 2011 | DEN | 16 | 13 | 44 | 612 | 13.9 | 56T | 8 | 1 | 1 | 1.0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2010 | DEN | 14 | 0 | 6 | 106 | 17.7 | 38 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | 3 | 1 |
DECKER AT A GLANCE:
• A third-year wide receiver who led the Broncos in receptions (44) and receiving yards (612)
in his first year as a starter in 2011 while totaling the second most receiving touchdowns (8)
in team history by a player in his first or second season.
• Recorded the third-longest punt return for a touchdown (90 yds.) in franchise history vs.
Oakland (9/12/11) in his first game returning punts at any level.
• Selected to the 2011 USA Football All-Fundamentals Team for exhibiting exemplary football
techniques for youth players to emulate.
• Played 14 games (0 starts) as a rookie in 2010 and led the Broncos in kickoff return yards
(556), while tying for third on the club with nine special-teams tackles.
• Totaled six receptions for 106 yards (17.7 avg.) with one touchdown during the 2010 regular-
season after finishing the preseason as the NFL’s reception leader (16-183, 11.4 avg., TD)
in just three games played.
• Wears No. 87 for three reasons: He admires former Broncos wide receiver Eddie McCaffrey,
who wore the number; he was the 87th overall player selected in the 2010 NFL Draft; and he
was born in ‘87.
• Started three seasons at the University of Minnesota, totaling 11 career-100-yard receiving
games and dropping only three passes in the 354 times he was targeted (0.8%).
• Posted a Minnesota-record 84 receptions for 1,074 yards (12.8 avg.) as a junior in 2008,
earning honorable mention All-America honors and first team All-Big Ten recognition.
• Selected by the Broncos in the third round (87th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft.
2011 Postseason Highlights:
- vs. Pittsburgh (1/8): Made his NFL postseason debut... His 9-yard rush in the first quarter marked a career-high (regular and postseason).
2011 Season Highlights:
- vs. Oakland (9/12): Took a Shane Lechler punt 90-yards for his first career touchdown return... His punt return for a touchdown represents the longest punt return in the NFL this season... Caught a pass from QB Kyle Orton for 23 yards to open the fourth quarter of play.
- vs. Cincinnati (9/18): Logged his first career NFL start. Recorded his first career 100-yard receiving game as well as his first multiple touchdown game. His 52-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter was Denver’s longest play from scrimmage of the afternoon.
- at Tennessee (9/25): Led the Broncos in receptions and receiving yards for the second straight week... His seven receptions represented a single-game career high... Tallied three receptions — including two to move the sticks on third down — on Denver’s only possession of the fourth quarter, a 16-play 80 yard touchdown drive.
- at Green Bay (10/2): Recorded his second multi-touchdown game of the season... Registered his first career rushing attempt on an end around in the fourth quarter.
- vs. Detroit (10/30): Led the Broncos in receptions and receiving yards for the third time this season... Hauled in a 14-yard touchdown pass from QB Tim Tebow in the fourth quarter for his team-leading fifth receiving touchdown of the season (6 total TDs with a punt returned for a touchdown on 10/12).
- at Oakland (11/6): Led the Broncos in receptions and receiving yards for the fourth time this season... Caught his team-leading sixth touchdown of the season, a 27-yard reception from QB Tim Tebow in the first quarter to give Denver an early 7-0 lead.
- at Kansas City (11/13): Caught a career-long 56-yard touchdown pass from QB Tim Tebow in the fourth quarter that put the game out of reach... Hauled in his seventh touchdown of the season... Recorded a touchdown reception in his three consecutive games.
- at San Diego (11/27): Hauled in his team-leading eighth touchdown pass of the season, an 18-yarder from QB Tim Tebow in the closing minute of the first half to bring Denver within three points, 10-7... Caught a game-long 39-yard pass from QB Tim Tebow on 3rd-and-long on the Broncos’ final offensive series in regulation that set up the game-tying field goal.
-
vs. Chicago (12/11): His 23-yard reception in the fourth quarter marked Denver’s second longest play from scrimmage of the afternoon.
2011: Decker played all 16 games (13 starts) in the regular season and led the Broncos with 44 receptions for 612 yards (13.9 avg.) with eight touchdowns... Added six punt returns for 133 yards (22.2 avg.), including a 90-yard touchdown, and returned two kickoffs for 50 yards (25.0 avg.)... Totaled the second most receiving touchdowns (8) by a Bronco in his first or second season... Registered the third-longest punt return for a touchdown (90 yds.) in franchise history in the season opener vs. Oak. (9/12) despite never returning a punt at any level entering the game... Totaled five receptions for 133 yards and two touchdowns in his first career start vs. Cin. (9/18)...Started Denver’s AFC Wild Card Playoff Game vs. Pit. (1/8) but left the game and missed the rest of the postseason with a knee injury.
Via: Denver Broncos
Demaryius Thomas missed the first 6 weeks of the 2011 season, and debuted in week 7 against the Dolphins, catching a crucial touchdown pass. DT continued his hot streak throughout the second half of the season and into the playoffs. Thomas was apart of one of the more memorable plays in Denver Broncos and NFL history, were he took a 80 yard pass from QB Tim Tebow for a touchdown in the Wildcard Round in overtime against the Pittsburgh Steelers, winning the game.
Coming into the 2012 season, DT is a bit of an unknown for me. In a Peyton Manning offense, the WR's need to be good route runners, that isn't DT's forte. So it will be interesting to see how they use Thomas in the offense. Also, one think i am intrigued about is that Manning has never had WR's as big and fast as Thomas and Decker. Both are psychical freaks and should both have great seasons under Manning.
It will be fun to watch though!
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 54 | 834 | -- | 47 | 6 | 3 | 6 | -- | 5 | 0 | 3 | 2 | |||
| 2011 | DEN | 11 | 5 | 32 | 551 | 17.2 | 47 | 4 | 1 | 5 | 5.0 | 5 | 0 | -- | -- |
| 2010 | DEN | 10 | 2 | 22 | 283 | 12.9 | 31 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0.5 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 2 |
THOMAS AT A GLANCE:
• A third-year wide receiver who has played career 21 regular-season games (7 starts) totaling 834 receiving yards and six touchdowns on 54 catches (15.4 avg.).
• Led the Broncos in receiving yards in each of his final seven contests, including the postseason, in 2011 to set a franchise record.
• Fueled Denver’s 29-23 win against Pittsburgh in the AFC Wild Card round (1/8/12) with his four-catch, 204-yard performance that included an 80-yard game-winning touchdown reception on the first play of overtime.
• Saw action in 10 games (2 starts) as a rookie in 2010 and finished sixth on the club with 22 receptions for 283 yards (12.9 avg.) with two touchdowns.
• Totaled eight receptions for 97 yards (12.1 avg.) with one touchdown in his NFL debut vs. Seattle (9/19/10) to mark the second-most catches by a Broncos rookie in his pro debut and become just the ninth player (since 1970) to record at least eight catches in their first NFL game.
• Finished his career at Georgia Tech ranked fourth in school history in receiving yards (2,339), fourth in touchdown catches (15) and seventh in receptions (120).
• Averaged nearly 20 yards per reception during his collegiate career, posting the fifth-best receiving average (19.5) for a career in Atlantic Coast Conference history.
• Selected by the Broncos in the first round (22nd overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft.
2011: Thomas played 11 regular-season games (5 starts) and ranked second on the team with 32 receptions for 551 yards (17.2 avg.) with four touchdowns... Inactive for the first five games of the year while recovering from an offseason Achilles injury and a broken thumb suffered in training camp... Started both postseason contests and totaled 10 catches for 197 yards (29.7 avg.) with one score... Set a franchise record by leading the Broncos in receiving in the season’s final seven games... Posted 25 receptions for 448 yards (17.9 avg.) with three touchdowns in Denver’s final five regular-season games... Fueled Denver’s 29-23 win vs. Pit. (1/8) in the AFC Wild Card Game when he caught an 80-yard touchdown reception on the first play of overtime (longest overtime
scoring play in NFL postseason history)... Totaled four receptions for 204 yards against the Steelers to mark the most receiving yards by a Bronco in playoff history and the second-highest receiving average (51.0) in a single game in NFL annals.
Via: Denver Broncos
Andre Caldwell signed with the Broncos on March 30th, coming over from the Bengals. Caldwells best year was in 2009 where he totaled 51 catches for 432 yards. Caldwell is a fifth-year player who has seen action in 51 career games (14 starts) with Cincinnati and totaled 124 receptions for 1,172 yards (9.5 avg.) with six touchdowns. Over the past three seasons, he averaged nearly 38 receptions and 365 yards for the Bengals
"Andre is a speed wide receiver who was very productive in the first part of his career with Cincinnati," Elway said. "He will add quality depth and competition to our roster, and we are happy to have him."
I think we'll see Caldwell mostly be the slot receiver in the offense. I think Caldwell will do well for us, i'm not expecting too much from him, but a solid 30-40 catch season for him would be great. I expect to see Caldwell battling for the kick return/punt return job as well.
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 124 | 1,172 | -- | 53 | 6 | 9 | 73 | -- | 26 | 0 | 5 | 3 | |||
| 2011 | CIN | 13 | 2 | 37 | 317 | 8.6 | 49T | 3 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2010 | CIN | 15 | 5 | 25 | 345 | 13.8 | 53 | 0 | 1 | -2 | -2.0 | -2 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2009 | CIN | 16 | 3 | 51 | 432 | 8.5 | 24 | 3 | 3 | 22 | 7.3 | 15 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| 2008 | CIN | 7 | 4 | 11 | 78 | 7.1 | 15 | 0 | 5 | 53 | 10.6 | 26 | 0 | -- | -- |
CALDWELL AT A GLANCE:
• A fifth-year wide receiver in his first year with Denver who played 51 games (14 starts) and
totaled 124 receptions for 1,172 yards (9.5 avg.) with six touchdowns in his first four NFL seasons
with Cincinnati.
• Averaged nearly 38 receptions per year over the last three seasons, highlighted by his 2009
campaign in which he played all 16 games (3 starts) and set career highs in catches (51),
receiving yards (432) and touchdowns (3) for the AFC North-Champion Bengals.
• Played 53 career games at the University of Florida and left as the school’s all-time leader in
receptions (185), while ranking third in Gator annals in receiving yards (2,349).
• Younger brother of Reche Caldwell, who played six NFL seasons with San Diego (2002-05),
New England (2006) and Washington (2007).
• Joined the Broncos as an unrestricted free agent on March 30, 2012.
• Selected by Cincinnati in the third round (97th overall) of the 2008 NFL Draft.Caldwell is a fifth-year player who has seen action in 51 career games (14 starts) with Cincinnati and totaled 124 receptions for 1,172 yards (9.5 avg.) with six touchdowns. Over the past three seasons, he averaged nearly 38 receptions and 365 yards for the Bengals.
2011: Caldwell played 13 games (2 starts) for the Bengals and totaled 37 receptions for 317 yards (8.6 avg,) and tied a career-high with three touchdowns... Posted multiple catches in 11-of-13 games played... Recorded the longest touchdown reception (49 yds.) of his career at Bal. (11/20)... Missed the Bengals’ final three regular season games and the postseason due to a hernia... Officially placed on injured reserve on Dec. 27.
2010: Caldwell saw action in 15 games, including a career-high five starts, and registered 25 receptions for 345 yards (13.8 avg.)... Totaled the three highest receiving yardage outputs of his career over the last three weeks of the season, averaging five receptions and 90 yards per game over that span... Set career-highs in catches (7) and receiving yards (94) in Cincinnati’s season finale at Bal. (1/2).
2009: Caldwell played all 16 games (3 starts) for the first time in his career and tallied a career-best 51 receptions for 432 yards (8.5 avg.) with three touchdowns for the AFC North Champions... Returned 29 kickoffs for 539 yards (18.6 avg.)... Recorded two catches for 25 yards (12.5 avg.) in Cincinnati’s AFC Wild Card Game vs. NYJ (1/9)... Produced multiple receptions in 15-of-17 games played, including the postseason.
Caldwell entered the NFL as a third-round selection by Cincinnati in the 2008 NFL Draft (97th overall) from the University of Florida, where he left as the school’s all-time leader in receptions (185) while ranking third in receiving yards (2,349).
He attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Tampa, Fla., and was born on April 15, 1985. His older brother, Reche, was an NFL wide receiver for San Diego (2002-05), New England (2006) and Washington (2007).
Via: Denver Broncos
Brandon Stokley will be entering his 14th year in the pros. Last season, Stokley signed with the New York Giants and played two games with them, where he totaled 1 catch for 7 yards. Stokley played 4 season with Peyton Manning in Indy where he caught 139 passes for 1926 yards.
What should we expect from Brandon Stokley in 2012? Well, to be honest, i doubt he even makes the team. I personally believe Stokley will be used as a mentor for the young WR's during camp, and help them learn Peyton Mannings offense. Now there is an outside chance Stokley makes the team, but i think it's doubtful.
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 339 | 4,680 | -- | 87 | 34 | 9 | 32 | -- | 14 | 0 | 3 | 2 | |||
| 2011 | NYG | 2 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 7.0 | 7 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2010 | SEA | 11 | 0 | 31 | 354 | 11.4 | 36 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2009 | DEN | 16 | 2 | 19 | 327 | 17.2 | 87T | 4 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2008 | DEN | 15 | 2 | 49 | 528 | 10.8 | 36T | 3 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2007 | DEN | 13 | 9 | 40 | 635 | 15.9 | 58 | 5 | 1 | -6 | -6.0 | -6 | 0 | -- | -- |
| 2006 | IND | 4 | 1 | 8 | 85 | 10.6 | 23 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2005 | IND | 15 | 4 | 41 | 543 | 13.2 | 45 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2004 | IND | 16 | 3 | 68 | 1,077 | 15.8 | 69T | 10 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 1 |
| 2003 | IND | 6 | 3 | 22 | 211 | 9.6 | 37T | 3 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2002 | BAL | 8 | 5 | 24 | 357 | 14.9 | 35T | 2 | 6 | 31 | 5.2 | 14 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2001 | BAL | 16 | 5 | 24 | 344 | 14.3 | 46 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1.0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2000 | BAL | 7 | 1 | 11 | 184 | 16.7 | 32 | 2 | 1 | 6 | 6.0 | 6 | 0 | -- | -- |
| 1999 | BAL | 2 | 0 | 1 | 28 | 28.0 | 28T | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
STOKLEY AT A GLANCE:
• A 14th-year player who enters his fourth overall year with the Broncos in 2012 after totaling 108 receptions for 1,490 yards (13.8 avg.) with 12 touchdowns for the club from 2007-09.
• Established himself as one of the most effective slot wide receivers in the NFL during his career with the N.Y. Giants (2011), Seattle (2010), Denver (2007-09), Indianapolis (2003-06) and Baltimore (1999-2002).
• Owns eight career 100-yard receiving games along with four 40-catch seasons and one 1,000-yard receiving campaign.
• Posted an 87-yard touchdown catch in Denver’s season opener at Cincinnati (9/13/09) that marked the NFL’s longest game-winning touchdown from scrimmage in the final minute of a game in league annals when he snagged a tipped pass and raced 62 yards to the end zone.
• Played 14 postseason games (3 starts) for his career and has two Super Bowl rings as a member of the 2000 Ravens (XXXV) and the 2006 Colts (XLI).
• Helped Indianapolis win the AFC South title during each of his four seasons teaming with quarterback Peyton Manning from 2003-06 as a key part of an offense that led the NFL in passing (17,206 yds. / 268.8 ypg.) during that period.
• Recorded career highs in receptions (68), receiving yards (1,077) and receiving touchdowns (10) with the Colts in 2004 to earn third-team All-NFL honors from USA Today.
• Started for the Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV during the 2000 season and hauled in a 38-yard touchdown to score the first points of that game against the New York Giants.
• Finished his career at the University of Southwestern Louisiana (since renamed University of Louisiana at Lafayette) ranked ninth in NCAA history in career receiving yards (3,702) and 10th in career receptions (241).
• Joined the Broncos as a free agent on April 17, 2012.
• Selected by Baltimore in the fourth round (105th overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft.
CAREER TRANSACTIONS: Signed by Baltimore as a draft choice 7/29/99; Placed on injured reserve (shoulder) by Baltimore 10/25/99; Placed on injured reserve (foot) by Baltimore 11/26/02; Signed by Indianapolis as an unrestricted free agent 3/14/03; Placed on injured reserve (right Achilles tendon) by Indianapolis 12/14/06;
Released by Indianapolis 3/1/07; Signed by Denver 3/22/07; Placed on injured reserve by Denver 9/4/10; Released by Denver 9/14/10; Signed by Seattle 9/28/10; Signed by N.Y. Giants 9/15/11; Released by N.Y. Giants 10/4/11; Signed by Denver 4/17/12.
2011: Stokley spent three weeks with the N.Y. Giants, playing in two games (0 starts) and posting one reception for seven yards... Released by the Giants on Oct. 4.
COLLEGE: Stokley played 37 career games (26 starts) at the University of Southwestern Louisiana (since renamed the University of Louisiana at Lafayette)... Averaged 100.1 receiving yards per game, posting 241 career receptions for 3,702 yards (15.4 avg.) with 25 touchdowns... Set all of the school’s career receiving records and finished ranked ninth in NCAA history in career receiving yards and 10th in career receptions... Became the first player in school history to eclipse the 1,000-yard receiving plateau in a season as he surpassed that benchmark three times during his collegiate career... Limited to four games during his junior campaign due to a knee injury... Set the school’s single-season reception record with 81 catches for 1,160 yards with seven scores as a sophomore to earn All-Independent and All-Louisiana first-team recognition... Had 1,121 yards and nine touchdowns on 75 catches to set the NCAA Division I-A freshman record during his redshirt freshman season.
PERSONAL: Stokley played two years (freshman and senior years) of football at Comeaux High School in Lafayette, La.... Made 80 catches for 946 yards (11.8 avg.) to earn all-state honors as a senior... Named all-district G in basketball and baseball... Involved with the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association to raise
awareness of the disease... Served as the spokesman for the Meningitis Foundation of America (MFA) in 2004 and has appeared on "celebrity week" on "Wheel of Fortune," earning more than $40,000 for MFA... A Louisiana native, Stokley assisted the victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita by donating clothing, food and supplies to people in the Gulf Region... His father, Nelson, was the football coach at Southwestern Louisiana (currently Louisiana-Lafayette) from 1986-98 after coaching stints at Louisiana State (1968-73), Virginia Tech (1974-77) and Clemson (1980-85)... Brandon Stokley was born on June 23, 1976, in Blacksburg, Va.
Via: Denver Broncos
Matt Willis had a career year in 2011, where he totaled 18 receptions for 267 yards and 1 touchdown. Willis will be battling for a roster spot this training camp.
I think Willis will make the roster this year. He can be a solid 4th or 5th receiver on a team, and can fill in as a starter in a pinch. He can be the main backup at the slot positon. I don't know, i have always liked Willis, and i think he's the type of WR that could flourish under a Peyton Manning.
Career Stats
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 20 | 295 | -- | 42 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 0 | |||
| 2011 | DEN | 16 | 0 | 18 | 267 | 14.8 | 42 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 0 |
| 2010 | DEN | 6 | 0 | 1 | 17 | 17.0 | 17 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2009 | DEN | 1 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2007 | BAL | 5 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 11.0 | 11 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
WILLIS AT A GLANCE:
• A fifth-year wide receiver who has appeared in 28 regular-season games (1 start) and two playoff contests during his NFL career with Denver (2008-11) and Baltimore (2007-08).
• Saw action in all 16 games for the Broncos in 2011 and ranked fourth on the team with 267 receiving yards on 18 catches (14.8 avg.) with one touchdown.
• Led the AFC and finished second in the NFL with 263 receiving yards on 13 receptions (20.2 avg., TD) during the 2010 preseason and went on to play in six regular-season games before being placed on injured reserve (foot) and missing the rest of the year.
• Finished the 2008 season on the Broncos’ practice squad and spent the first 16 weeks of the ‘09 campaign with that group before making the first start of his NFL career in Denver’s season finale vs. Kansas City (1/3/10).
• Began his rookie season on the Ravens’ practice squad in 2007 before seeing time in five of the club’s final seven games that year.
• Played two seasons of football at UCLA after competing on its track team and finished his Bruins career with 24 receptions for 248 yards (10.3 avg.) with three touchdowns in 21 games (3 starts).
• Joined the Broncos as a practice squad signee on Dec. 23, 2008.
• Entered the NFL with Baltimore as a college free agent on May 4, 2007.
2011: Willis saw action in all 16 games for the first time and ranked fourth on the club with 267 receiving yards on 18 catches (14.8 avg.) with one touchdown... Added five tackles and one fumble recovery on special teams in the regular season... Played both playoff games for the Broncos and collected one reception for 18 yards to go along with a special-teams stop... Had a career-long 42-yard reception in the fourth quarter at Mia. (10/23) to help the Broncos erase a 15-point deficit with less than three minutes remaining... Totaled a career-high four receptions for 75 yards in Denver overtime win vs. Chi. (12/11)... Returned the first seven kickoffs of his career for a total of 138 yards (19.7 avg.) at Buf. (12/24).
Via: Denver Broncos
Jacon Hill signed with the Broncos on February 12th. Hill was a 10 game starter for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2011, before he was surprisingly released. In 10 games Hill totaled 25 receptions for 367 yards and 3 touchdowns. Hill has totaled 76 receptions for 1028 yards and 8 touchdowns during his career.
I think Hill is forgotten by many Bronco fans, and i am one of them that forgets he's on the team. Hill has a good shot to make the team i think, and could potentially battle with Andre Caldwell for playing time. Hill has starting experience and at the very least could be our 4th or 5h WR this year if he makes the team.
| SEASON | TEAM | GAMES | RECEIVING | RUSHING | FUMBLES | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | GS | REC | YDS | AVG | LONG | TD | ATT | YDS | AVG | LNG | TD | FUM | LOST | ||
| TOTAL | 76 | 1,028 | -- | 74 | 8 | 2 | 5 | -- | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |||
| 2011 | JAC | 10 | 10 | 25 | 367 | 14.7 | 74T | 3 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2010 | JAC | 6 | 1 | 11 | 248 | 22.5 | 48T | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2010 | SF | 2 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2009 | SF | 11 | 0 | 9 | 90 | 10.0 | 30 | 2 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2008 | SF | 16 | 2 | 30 | 317 | 10.6 | 33 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 2.5 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2007 | SF | 5 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 6.0 | 6 | 0 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
HILL AT A GLANCE:
• A sixth-year wide receiver in his first year with Denver who totaled 76 receptions for 1,028 yards (13.5 avg.) with eight touchdowns during his first five seasons with San Francisco (2007-10) and Jacksonville (2010-11).
• Opened a career-high 10 games for the Jaguars in 2011 and recorded 25 catches for a personal-best 367 yards (14.7 avg.) and three scores.
• Saw action in all 16 games (2 starts) for the 49ers in his second NFL season in 2008 and finished fifth on the club with 30 receptions for 317 yards (10.7 avg.) and two touchdowns in addition to ranking second on the club with 17 special-teams tackles.
• Finished his career at Washington State University ranked first in school history in receiving yards (2,704) and receiving touchdowns (32) and second on the all-time list with 148 catches.
• Joined the Broncos as a free agent on Feb. 16, 2012.
• Selected by San Francisco in the third round (76th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft.
2011: Hill started all 10 games played for Jacksonville and totaled 25 receptions for a career-high 367 yards (14.7 avg.) and three touchdowns... Posted a career-high 118 receiving yards on five catches (23.6 avg.) with one touchdown vs. Cin. (10/9)... Released by the Jaguars on Nov. 30.
Page was signed as an un-drafted free agent and will battle for a roster spot in Training Camp.
Eric Page, WR, Toledo
Height: 5’10″
Weight: 186
40 Time: 4.53
Arms: 29″ Hands: 9″
Vertical: 30″ Broad: 9’4″ 3 Cone: 6.95 Short Shuttle: 3.98 Bench: 15
Strengths: Page is a thin WR, who plays extremely quick – Extremely productive in college, used on a variety of short pass routes – One of the quickest WR in draft, can get in and out of breaks without losing any speed – Not going to be an over the top WR, instead he is going to beat defensive backs out of the slot with change of direction and ability to separate with quick, deceptive cuts – Exhibits solid balance while running routes, can stop and get going again – Excellent with the ball in his hands, creates a lot of missed tackles, has the ability to turn "nothing into something" – Uses his upper body to fake and deceive – Sets up his blockers and patient on screens and bubble screens – Real smart player, student of the game – Excellent vision, finds the ball and can adjust – Understands coverages and how to get open, will adjust route based on defense – Was utilized as the "hot" route guy at Toledo – Was able to be productive week in and week out, despite defenses game planning to take him away – Also a good kick returner, with multiple returns for touchdowns – Great kid, very well spoken, humble and driven.
Weaknesses: Biggest question marks with Page are going to be his frame and build – Skinny frame and average height – Lower body explosion a little big of a question with poor vertical and broad jumps - Not overly explosive, going to struggle to separate from bigger faster corners – Has some initial burst, but lacks the top end speed – Has a small wiry frame, will need to get stronger and add at least a little bit of bulk – Probably only a slot guy – More of a maximum effort and "try hard" guy – Is production a result of the system or lower level of competition? – Won’t ever be a #1 WR, but should be able to be a productive slot receiver
Via: nepatriotsdraft.com
I'm excited to see what Page can do in camp. His role will mostly be on special teams. If he can lock down a role as a returner, he will make the team. He can compete at the slot position for playing time as well. Page is a quick WR who could be a nice weapon for Manning.
Eric Page is a rookie wide receiver from the University of Toledo who joined the Broncos as a college free agent on April 28, 2012… Caught 304 passes for 3,276 yards (10.8 avg.) with 25 touchdowns during his three-year career with the Rockets to pace the school in all three categories during each season... Named to the watch lists for the Biletnikoff and Hornung awards as a junior in 2011, when he hauled in 125 passes for 1,182 yards (9.5 avg.) with 10 touchdowns... Garnered first-team All-Mid-American Conference honors at three positions: wide receiver, kick returner and punt returner... Tallied 99 catches for 1,105 yards (11.2 avg.) and eight scores during his sophomore campaign in 2010 and was selected as a consensus All-American kick returner… Named second team All-MAC as an impact freshman after posting 82 receptions for 1,159 yards (14.1 avg.) and seven scores...Attended Springfield High School in Holland, Ohio, where he posted 2,381 yards and 34 touchdowns rushing to go along with 1,102 yards and 11 scores passing as a senior... Collected Ohio Division II co-Offensive Player of the Year, League MVP and first-team all-state honors following his final prep season... Majored in criminal justice at Toledo… Eric Anthony Page was born Sept. 23, 1991.
Via: Denver Broncos
Dell signed as a college free agent last year. Mark Dell was a camp favorite last season, but ended up on IR after injuring his knee during camp.
Dell is probably a long shot to make the team, but if he impresses and Willis, Stokley or Hill falter or get injured during camp/preseason, he could play his way onto the roster.
DELL AT A GLANCE:
• A second-year wide receiver who spent his rookie season on injured reserve after hurting his
knee during training camp.
• Saw action in one preseason game for the Broncos in 2011, catching a 26-yard pass against
Dallas (8/11/11).
• Played 47 games (27 starts) at Michigan State University and finished his career ranked sixth
in school history in receiving yards (2,136), seventh in receptions (133) and tied for 13th in
receiving touchdowns (12).
• Earned honorable mention All-Big Ten Conference honors and won the Spartans’ Downtown
Coaches Club Award as the top offensive senior after totaling career highs with 51 receptions
for 788 yards (15.5 avg.) with six touchdowns in 2010.
• Opened a combined 16 games during his first two seasons at Michigan State, including a
start as a true freshman in the Spartans’ season opener.
• Entered the NFL with the Broncos as a college free agent on July 27, 2011.
2011: Dell, who entered the NFL as a college free agent with Denver on July 27, spent the season on injured reserve (knee) after competing with the club during training camp... Played in one preseason game, catching one pass for 26 yards at Dal. (8/11).
COLLEGE: Dell played 47 career games (27 starts) at Michigan State University and finished his career ranked sixth in school history with 2,136 receiving yards, seventh with 133 receptions and tied for 13th with 12 receiving touchdowns… Earned honorable mention All-Big Ten Conference honors as a senior after totaling career highs in receptions (51), receiving yards (788) and receiving touchdowns (6)… Finished third in the conference in receiving yards per game (73.6) and seventh in receptions per game (4.9) while earning the Downtown
Coaches Club Award as Michigan State’s top senior offensive player… Opened a combined 16 games in his first two seasons with the program, including a start as a true freshman in the Spartans’ season opener.
PERSONAL: Dell attended Harrison High School in Farmington Hills, Mich., where he earned PrepStar All-America honors after accounting for 1,491 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns as a senior… Majored in communications at Michigan State… Mark Dell was born on May 28, 1989.
Via: Denver Broncos
GOODWIN AT A GLANCE:
• A second-year wide receiver who spent the majority of his rookie season in 2011 on the Broncos’ practice squad before being elevated to the active roster for the team’s Divisional Playoff Game at New England (1/14/12).
• Played 49 games (21 starts) for the University of Washington and totaled 124 receptions for 1,478 yards (11.9 avg.) with five touchdowns during his career.
• Led the Huskies with a career-high 60 receptions for 692 yards (11.5 avg.) with one score during his sophomore campaign to rank fourth in the Pac-10 Conference in receptions per game (5.0) and earn the team’s Offensive MVP Award.
• Entered the NFL with the Broncos as a college free agent on July 27, 2011.
2011: Goodwin, who entered the NFL as a college free agent with Denver on July 27, spent the majority of the regular-season on the practice squad after competing with the club during the preseason... Elevated to the active roster for Denver’s Divisional Playoff Game at N.E. (1/14), but was listed as inactive for the contest.
COLLEGE: Goodwin played 49 career games (21 starts) for the University of Washington and tallied 124 receptions for 1,478 yards (11.9 avg.) with five touchdowns... Ranked second on the Huskies with 44 receptions for 530 yards (12.0 avg.) with a personal-best four touchdowns as a senior in 2010... Led Washington with a career-high 60 receptions for 692 yards (11.5 avg.) with one score as a sophomore in 2008, ranking fourth in the Pac-10 Conference in receptions per game (5.0) and earning the team’s Offensive MVP Award.
PERSONAL: Goodwin attended Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, Calif., where as a senior he totaled 645 yards and six touchdowns from scrimmage on offense in addition to 55 tackles and eight interceptions on defense... D’Andre Goodwin was born on Dec. 26, 1987, in Pacoima, Calif.
GRISHAM AT A GLANCE:
• A second-year wide receiver who played four games with Pittsburgh as a rookie in 2009 before spending the last two seasons on the Steelers’ practice squad.
• Saw action in 50 career games (23 starts) at Clemson University, where he totaled 132 receptions for 1,390 yards (10.5 avg.) with eight touchdowns.
• Posted a personal-best 60 catches for the Tigers as a junior with his 4.6 receptions per game ranking seventh in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• Joined the Broncos as a future-contract signee on Jan. 16, 2012
• Entered the NFL with the Steelers as a college free agent on April 28, 2009.
2011: Grisham spent the majority of the season on Pittsburgh’s practice squad after competing with the Steelers during training camp.
2010: Grisham spent the entire 2010 campaign on the Steelers’ practice squad.
2009: Grisham, who entered the NFL with Pittsburgh as a college free agent on April 28, competed on the club’s practice squad for the first 13 weeks of the season before being elevated to the active roster and playing in the team’s final four games (0 starts)... Recorded one reception for 14 yards on the year.
COLLEGE: Grisham played 50 games (23 starts) as a four-year letterman for Clemson University, where he recorded 132 career receptions for 1,390 yards (10.5 avg.) with eight touchdowns... Posted a personal-best 60 catches as a junior with his 4.6 catches per game ranking seventh in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
PERSONAL: Grisham played wide receiver, tailback, quarterback and defensive back at Spain Park High School in Hoover, Ala., where he was named a Max Emfinger All-American following his senior season... Majored in management at Clemson... William Tyler Grisham was born on June 11, 1987, in Birmingham, Ala.
Via Denver Broncos
Overview: A tall, long-armed wide receiver prospect with great size and a solid overall build. However, he isn't real explosive off the line of scrimmage and it takes him a while to get up to speed. Is a strider who looks more like a 4.6 guy, isn't going to run by anyone but the further down the field he gets, the harder he is to cover. Isn't a real balanced or sudden route runner either, but a linear athlete who struggles to break down and change directions even on more vertically breaking routes. Doesn't create much separation for himself vs. man coverage and tends to really roll into his breaks trying to get this body between the ball and defender. Is forced to chop his feet and gear down on more sharply breaking routes and just doesn't have a real initial burst. Isn't overly coordinated when asked to box out and go get the play, though he snatches the ball well when he's open and secures it, but is not as physically impressive with a guy draped over him.Is at his best when he can go up and make a play on the football when covered up, but isn't the type of dynamic jump-ball threat who can make a living doing it in the NFL. Doesn't seem to maximize his length routinely, will drift backward when trying to set his feet and explode vertically in order to get the football. Has a slight physical element to his game vs. press coverage, using his length to fend off blocks, but isn't real shifty off the line and again will never separate a ton. Has the size to win on the outside as a blocker and does take pride in being nasty on the outside and winning on contact.Impression: A big kid with solid ball skills, but isn't dynamic when asked to go get the football and is never going to separate much in the NFL.
