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Those that were able to attend yesterday's practice at Sports Authority Field were treated like the best fans in the NFL. Not only did Peyton Manning come out early to sign autographs, but Julius Thomas was able to tell the crowd how much they meant to the team. Add to that a red-zone display from the offense and you have yourself a good afternoon of late July football.
Speaking of the Redzone
The Broncos want to improve in the redzone despite ranking #1 in the NFL in this category last season. If you're wondering where this improvement should come from, look no further than the running game. Last season Peyton Manning threw 40/55 of his TD's in the redzone (72.7%). Going deeper, 16 came from the 5-yd line or closer. The Broncos would love to be able to run the ball more effectively in the redzone.
Contract Talks
While there is no new news to report regarding the ongoing contract negotiations between the Broncos and Demaryius Thomas/Julius Thomas, Andrew Mason had a great perspective on a radio spot the other day. He said if the Broncos can't get both of them extended this offseason, the goal would be to get one under contract so they could Franchise Tag the other--giving them some more time to negotiate with that player the following offseason. While my preference would be to tag Julius, if the team is aiming to get a long-term deal done with the tagged player in the 2015 offseason, it really does not matter to the cap long-term. It may however handcuff the team short-term when free agency opens. The tag number on a TE would be between 7-8 million while the number on a WR would be considerably more.
Roster talk, the numbers game
I know it is early on, but it seems to me as if the Broncos would be content to carry 3 TE going into next season. Sandy Clough shared the same thoughts on the radio yesterday. No vet has been added to take the place of Joel Dreessen, and while I love Gerrell Robinson, he's still a project. If the Broncos hold true at other positions, that would mean one extra spot to another position group. If the Broncos were to take 3 TE to the final 53-man roster, you're likely to see them keep 6 WR. Isaiah Burse fans rejoice.
Horse Tracks
Broncos were No. 1 last year in red zone but still want to improve - The Denver Post
It was red zone and pretty much nothing but during the Broncos' team drills Sunday as they moved their training camp practice to Sports Authority Field at
Nearly 22,000 fans flock to Broncos camp; defensive depth creates position battles - The Denver Post
Nearly 22,000 fans flocked to Sports Authority Field at Mile High to watch the Broncos perform drills and go 11-on-11 during Day 4 of training camp Sunday.
Aqib Talib glad he "didn't get boos or anything" in Mile High return - The Denver Post
Denver Broncos fans make sure new cornerback Aqib Talib "feels the love" in an open practice at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
DeMarcus Ware has a lower leg injury | ProFootballTalk
During his time with the Cowboys, defensive end/linebacker DeMarcus Ware played through plenty of injuries. He's already dealing with one in Denver. Ware was held out for roughly half of Sunday's practice due to what coach John Fox called a lower leg injury.
Training Camp 2014: Day 4 Quick Hits
Here are the quick hits from Day 4 of training camp. The Broncos put on a show for nearly 22,000 fans, including touchdowns from Wes Welker and C.J. Anderson.
Warm Welcome Home From Fans
A crowd of nearly 22,000 greeted their 2014 Broncos for the first time Sunday with thunderous energy that brought out the best in the players.
Mason's Five Thoughts from Camp Day 4
The Broncos' second practice in pads and first in front of the fans was dotted by big plays on both sides of the line of scrimmage.
New Broncos See New Home
This year's free agent pick-ups get their first look at what to expect on gameday at Sports Authority Field.
First Stadium Practice Photos
Check out photos from the Broncos' first practice at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings sign 5-year contract - NFL.com
The Minnesota Vikings have locked up one of their top playmakers. The team and Kyle Rudolph reached terms on a five-year contract extension worth $36.5 million.
Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings sign 5-year contract - NFL.com
The Minnesota Vikings have locked up one of their top playmakers. The team and Kyle Rudolph reached terms on a five-year contract extension worth $36.5 million.