Report: LB D’Qwell Jackson Will Visit the Broncos on Monday

For the Denver Broncos, free agency will begin a little more than a week early.

Not unexpectedly, linebacker D’Qwell Jackson didn’t have to wait long for a call–or seven–after being somewhat surprisingly cut by the +Cleveland Browns earlier in the week.

Now, he begins his free agency tour, and number two on the list are–you guessed it–the Denver Broncos.

We mentioned on Wednesday that Jackson would be a great fit with the Broncos, and they obviously felt the same. Enough to be one of the first teams to come calling.

This news was first reported by CBS Sports’ +Jason La Canfora, who also reported that Jackson is drawing interest from a number of teams, including the +Tennessee Titans, the first team on Jackson’s visit tour.

A lot of the time, the first place a free agent visits is the place he ends up signing, but according to other media reports, Jackson has five visits lined up. It’s possible that he’s going to get an offer from the Titans, and take that offer to some of the other visits to see what he can get.

Jackson is going to be 31 in September, so he’s not exactly out of time to win a title but the time to act is certainly now. This isn’t the first time his name has been connected with the Broncos but it’s the first time they’ve really had a legitimate shot at him.

The biggest connection the Broncos have with Jackson is Tom Heckert, one of the guys responsible for signing Jackson to a five-year, $42.5 million extension back in 2012 before joining the Broncos in 2013.

2012 seems like a long time ago, but less than two years after signing a pretty sizable contract extension, Jackson finds himself back on the market.

The biggest connection he has in Tennessee is defensive coordinator Ray Horton, who was Cleveland’s defensive coordinator in 2013. Horton had some glowing reviews of Jackson per Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer:

“D’Qwell has been a coach’s dream as far as leadership, intelligence,” Horton said. ”He demands a lot from himself and his teammates. He really is a locker room coach [with] some of the things he says after the game and at halftime.”

The biggest question for Jackson is whether or not he’s going to want to be part of a rebuilding project or part of a team that can go to the Super Bowl next year. The Titans are certainly a solid ball club, but they aren’t that close to Super Bowl contention, finishing 2nd in the AFC South last year at 7-9. Jackson has had enough of that in his career.

Hopefully he doesn’t just settle for the first deal he’s offered, and waits to hear the Broncos out. According to Mike Klis of the +The Denver Post, he is scheduled to visit Tennessee on Saturday and Denver on Monday.

John Fox says Hillman still has Potential

By Jeff Legwold

INDIANAPOLIS -- First, Ronnie Hillman was awarded the Denver Broncos starting running back job.

Then Hillman had some trouble hanging on to the ball -- including a late fumble in Indianapolis that effectively stifled a comebacker attempt -- as well as the job. The Broncos' third-round pick in the 2012 draft moved down the depth chart and, from the team's perspective, didn't exactly respond to the demotion as they had hoped, or maybe even expected.

Broncos have seen flashes of what Hillman can do. In Week 3
he ran for 66 yards (team high) and a TD on 9 carries.
About 7.3 yards/carry Photo Courtesy: AP

So much so Hillman was a game day inactive five times during the regular season as well as all three of the Broncos' playoff games, including Super Bowl XLVIII. He has just two games with more than 10 carries -- 11 carries for 36 yards in the team's win over Philadelphia to go with 12 in the regular-season finale in Oakland -- and after Oct. 20 Hillman had a seven-game stretch when he did not have a carry.

That run included four games when he was an inactive, a game he played in without a carry and a game in which he was in uniform but did not get on the field.

Thursday at the NFL's scouting combine, Broncos head coach John Fox expressed at least some optimism Hillman could rebound in the manner Knowshon Moreno did from both injuries and a demotion. Moreno had his first 1,000-yard rushing season in 2013.

"He's had no issues running the ball, he put it on the ground a couple times, like they all do, early in the season and really was in the mix," Fox said. "And we had some other guys -- C.J. Anderson, Montee Ball and Knowshon -- and the way it kind of works out sometimes, there's only so many can get a uniform on game day. He's in that mix, I think he's a tremendous talent, he does give us great explosion as a runner, particularly to the perimeter."

With Moreno an unrestricted free agent who will likely see bigger offers elsewhere, Hillman will get an opportunity through the offseason program to show how he will rebound from his bumpy ride in 2013. Ball is expected to be elevated into the No. 1 role if Moreno moves on and would push for more carries than the 120 he got this past season even if Moreno re-signed with the team.

That leaves Hillman, Anderson and any other future editions to the depth chart to carve up the carries that remain. Hillman and Anderson are the only other backs, other than Ball, currently under contract for next season. 

"I know (Hillman) will work really hard this offseason and try to develop and get ready for next year," Fox said.

No Love Lost Between These Two (Welker, Belichick) Goes Without Saying

+Denver Broncos Wes Welker shakes hands with former coach, +New England Patriots Head Coach, Bill Belichick

To be fair, +Wes Welker fueled the animosity last year when he told Sports Illustrated that Belichick would rip him in front of his former teammates in New England. Welker said when he spoke with members of the Denver media, he was not worried about any backlash from his coach, but was always concerned about Belichick’s reaction in New England.

Their relationship did not improve when Welker applied a hit on New England’s Aqib Talib, which injured the cornerback’s knee and prevented him from reentering the game on Sunday. Talib reportedly does not have major knee damage, but his absence contributed to New England’s loss.

Those are just a few reasons why Belichick did not embrace Welker like they were long lost friends after the game.

To be fair, Belichick is not known for his warm and fuzzy moments. Belichick normally looks like he’s enduring an IRS audit whenever he is in public. He might be the life of the party behind closed doors, but portrays less personality than Ferris Bueller’s teacher when the cameras are on.

Welker may have expected a heartfelt moment with Belichick, but that was not going to happen

Bronocs CR3W Latest Edition to Horse Track Playlist

Post, Denver: Knowshon Moreno at Parker home and Black Lambo!

Will Knowshon's home be hitting the real estate market? Reebok commercial might help with the sale, if so...?

H/T to +The Denver Post 

Knowshon laces up for a Reebok commercial.
(Fuller Sotheby’s/Special to The Denver Post)

Parker residents Tony and Billie Rollins are looking to sell their 6,319-square-foot home for $1.575 million.

Allowing Reebok to use the property as the backdrop for a commercial featuring Denver Broncos running Knowshon Moreno might help with a potential sale.

Knowshon films a Reebok ad.
(Fuller Sotheby’s/Special to The Denver Post)

Knowshon, a former +Georgia Bulldogs great, films a Reebok ad. (Fuller Sotheby’s/Special to The Denver Post)

After the sporting goods giant received permission to film at the Rollins’ home, Moreno and crew arrived at the property Jan. 3 during the +NFL's, & +Denver Broncos playoff bye week.

According to Fuller Sotheby’s International Reality, which is handling the listing of the home, the commercial is expected to feature Moreno sprinting off the steps of the property’s entryway for a daily run – partially filmed at Colorado Golf Club – then returning to the home and a black Lamborghini.

Knowshon filming indoors.
(Fuller Sotheby’s/Special to The Denver Post)

“Beautiful man, just beautiful,” Moreno will say at the end of the ad while admiring his Reeboks.

The ad is scheduled to launch on YouTube and Reebok’s website in early February in time for Super Bowl Sunday.

“It was really fun watching Knowshon,” homeowner Tony Rollins said in a statement. “We were so pleased they picked our home to film the commercial, especially since it’s up for sale.”

The Rollins’ home, at 5689 Majestic Oak Way, is located in the “Retreat at The Timbers” neighborhood in Parker and features a stone-and-wood beamed entry, four bedrooms, six bathrooms and a four-car garage.

No word yet from Reebok on whether they plan to air the commercial during the Super Bowl broadcast if the Broncos make it to the Big Game. Each 30-second slot is reportedly selling for a record $4 million.

Nike replaced Reebok as the NFL’s exclusive on-field apparel company in 2012.

Now, does anyone blame Knowshon for getting that 100 mph, reckless driving traffic citation when he had this at his disposal?? We, at +BRONCOS CR3W , certainly do not...

Gilbert, Dennard do not Disappoint as Combine Wraps up with Secondary/DB Prospects

Deep Secondary Class Confirmed at NFL Combine: Position, Broncos, are Certainly Keeping Their eyes on

Darqueeze Dennard, from +Michigan State Athletics
Photo Courtesy: +Sports Illustrated 

Michigan State cornerback Darqueze Dennard, NFLDraftScout.com's top-ranked cornerback, posted a 4.51 40-yard time, likely cementing a spot in the top 15 in Tuesday's mornings defensive back workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Dennard's game tape was enough to win over coaches and evaluators. The blazing unofficial time of 4.42 (produced by a handheld stopwatch at the finish line but eventually washed away by a hybrid of handheld and electronic results) to open the final day of workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium pushes him over the top. He posted an unofficial 4.46 on his second 40.

Oklahoma State's Justin Gilbert was given a 4.37 "official" time, fastest among defensive backs (4.35, 4.38 unofficially). Gilbert was smooth and fluid in position drills. He will battle to be the first cornerback off the board, but scouts aren't all convinced Gilbert's athleticism translates to the field. Undoubtedly he's the most naturally gifted athlete. He had seven interceptions last season and with his size (6-0, 202) and arms, projects as a No. 1 cornerback in the NFL.


* Too bad he won't drop to 31, because he brings immediate impact and better return average if not a TD on special teams. Although other players can return, to add this impact of a DB and get those gamechanging skills on special teams could cure two elements that were the most glaring on the +Denver Broncos, the special teams unit excluding the All-Pro kickers in place and the secondary becomes immediately more explosive, faster with him. Others showed very well though and could be just as impactful, if not more. +BRONCOS CR3W still would classify Dennard as the #1 CB, but Gilbert belongs right there. This is almost, undoubtedly the way we foresee the Broncos going with the first round and then bolstering DE/LB. Unless a surprise availability occurs. In Elway, we trust. Here's some video of Gilbert in action for +Oklahoma State Athletics  

It was thought Dennard's time might be closer to Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden at 4.6 -- that didn't disqualify Haden from being a first-round pick. It turns out he is closer to Dee Milliner's test results. Milliner, the top-ranked cornerback out of Alabama in 2013, was 13th overall after posting two stunning handheld times (4.31, 4.37) at last year's combine.

+Ohio State Buckeyes junior Bradley Roby rates as a first-round talent. Heart, work ethic and off-field character questions could be hushed by his speed and testing numbers. Roby wasn't unproductive for the Buckeyes, but his inconsistency in 2013 was a red flag. Roby said Sunday that he coasted through preseason knowing he wouldn't play in the opener (suspension). That's the kind of confession general managers list in bold type on a scouting report.

Of course, some of those same evaluators will circle in permanent ink the 4.39-second "official" 40 time he posted Tuesday, too.

+Alabama Crimson Tide Safety, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix clocked at 4.58 (4.52 unofficial on his first run, 4.50 on the second) also confirmed NFLDraftScout.com's evaluation as the top-ranked safety in the class. +Louisville Cardinals Athletics Safety, Calvin Pryor, matched his 40 result Tuesday afternoon in the second DB group. What Clinton-Dix brings is a centerfield safety who can cover tight ends or receivers in man coverage if schemes require.

Pryor is NFLDraftScout.com's second-ranked safety and No. 28 overall. He had a 34 1/2-inch vertical and 9-8 broad jump -- average overall and below-average for top-40 safety prospects -- and then, in the second group of defensive backs to run Tuesday, posted an unofficial 4.62 in his initial 40. His workout was regarded as a more important piece of his final draft grade than others in the position group. The Chicago Bears (14), Pittsburgh Steelers (15) and Dallas Cowboys (16) are in the market for safety help if not found in free agency.

We already pointed out how big we are on Calvin Pryor. Verrett will be discussed in the future as well. Verrett reminds us of a smaller, but more dynamic and surprisingly physical for his size and strong finisher/tackler at 5'9" He very well might be a gift at pick 31 if all goes well.

Dennard was Mr. Consistency for the Spartans, and he plays with the pure dynamism and animated, infectious spirit coaches and teammates appreciate and admire. Other than perhaps wildcard Virginia Tech corner Kyle Fuller (who timed unofficially in a surprising 4.4 flat on both 40s Tuesday), Dennard is the best football player -- instincts, awareness and intelligence -- at the position.

"I think he's a pretty good corner," said Roby.

Dennard needs an ideal scheme fit, a team that presses at the line to physically jam and re-route receivers, or his shot at stardom is nil. He is not a superb or rare athlete and could be overlooked. There are also questions about durability including shoulder and head injuries.

Oklahoma State's big-bodied man cornerback wasn't a major surprise -- his fluid movement skills were expected test off the charts.

"I ran a 4.33 a couple weeks ago, and that was just my first attempt," Gilbert said.

He's trying to erase two Sharpie markings on his scouting report that won't be easily overcome. The gambler has "average ball skills" despite decent interception totals in his career. The more stinging criticism is easily seen on game tape. For his agility and ability, Gilbert is toasted more than Eggos, and that's a fatal flaw if scouts and coaches don't believe technical adjustments will correct it.

Gilbert spent time with Dennard in Orlando. Gilbert said Dennard is a wise guy, always making jokes, but scouts might agree that Dennard gets the picture with Dennard.

"He calls me 'Pretty Boy,'" Gilbert said. "He makes fun of me because I always take selfies on my phone."

TCU's Jason Verrett ran 4.38 "officially" and might offer the best combination of talent and production, but his height and smaller frame are limiting. He might have reduced those worries by weighing in at 189 -- and confirming speed projections -- after being listed at 174 pounds. Verrett measured at 5-9, but eats up run-support responsibilities. He wants to hit, and competes on every play, a product of his junior college development that feeds the underdog mentality.

"If I'm 5-9, I'm 5-9. But I can compete with anybody," Verrett said Sunday. "I've been challenged with receivers that have been over 6-foot my whole college career,"

Verrett is nicknamed Fever, "because he's always hot" but said his cover skills made him "Fever Island." Verrett said Sunday he considers himself the best cornerback in the draft.

The human sledgehammer style that draws comparisons to former Jets cornerback Aaron Glenn and Rams cornerback Cortland Finnegan also contributes to concerns about the health of his shoulder.

He played through a torn labrum most of the season after the injury occurred three games into his senior year. Verrett is scheduled to have surgery in Los Angeles after his March 21 pro day.

There are scouts who rate Verrett as a first-round talent. It would be mildly surprising to see him drafted in the top 25 picks because his size likely pushes him into a nickel corner or No. 2 role.

Rice's Phillip Gaines set a breakneck 40-yard pace with matching, unofficial 4.34s and when "official" times were released, he was a tick behind Gilbert at 4.35.

Below are the top 25 verified cornerback times of the century according to NFLDraftScout.com records (below) prior to Tuesday.

TOP CORNERBACK 40-YARD TIMES VERIFIED BY NFLDRAFTSCOUT.COM

TIME/YEAR/PLAYER/SCHOOL/HT/WT/ROUND/OVERALL/TEAM

4.25 2011 Demarcus Van Dyke / Miami / 6-1 176 / 3/81/Raiders

4.27 2005 Stanford Routt Houston / 6-2 193 / 2/38/Raiders

4.29 2005 *Fabian Washington Nebraska / 5-11 188 / 1/23/Raiders

4.29 2008 Domq. Rodgers-Cromartie Tennessee State / 6-2 184 / 1/16/Cardinals

4.29 2012 *Josh Robinson Central Florida / 5-10 199 / 3/66/Vikings

4.30 2005 Darrent Williams Oklahoma State / 5-09 176 / 2/56/Broncos

4.31 2004 Michael Waddell North Carolina / 5-11 187 / 4/124/Titans

4.31 2006 *Johnathan Joseph South Carolina / 5-11 193 / 1/24/Bengals

4.31 2008 Tyvon Branch Connecticut 6-0 204 / 4/100/Raiders

4.31 2008 *Justin King Penn State / 5-11 192 / 4/101/Rams

4.31 2011 *Patrick Peterson LSU / 6-0 219 / 1/5/Cardinals

4.31 2013 Terry Hawthorne Illinois / 6-0 195 / 5/150/Steelers

4.31 2013 Darius Slay Miss. State / 6-0 192 / 2/36/Lions

4.32 2003 Kevin Garrett SMU / 5-10 194 / 5/172/Rams

4.32 2005 Chris McKenzie Arizona State / 5-09 185 / Undrafted

4.32 2006 Tim Jennings Georgia / 5-08 185 / 2/62/Colts

4.32 2007 *Chris Houston Arkansas / 5-10 185 / 2/41/Falcons

4.32 2008 *Orlando Scandrick Boise State / 5-10 192 / 5/143/Cowboys

4.32 2010 Akwasi Owusu-Ansah Indiana (PA) / 6-0 207 / 4/126/Cowboys

Wisconsin’s White Looks Up to Former Badger Ball

H/T to +Stuart Zaas

Digital Media Coordinator, +Denver Broncos 

James White, Wisconsin Badgers RB, totes the ball in
2013 win vs +BYU. Photo Courtesy +FOX Sports (AP)

Wisconsin running back James White said that Montee Ball has helped him as he transitions from college

One of those players to bring up a current Bronco was +Wisconsin Badgers running back James White.

In 2012, Montee Ball led the Badgers with 1,909 yards and 22 touchdowns. Right behind him was White, who carried 125 times for 840 yards and 12 scores that year.

White said that he talked to Ball for advice on what to expect at the scouting combine.

“He’s a guy I keep in contact with,” White said. “He’s helped me with this process. He’s kind of let me know how it is going to be.”

Ball’s advice?

“It’s a long process, very time consuming, but stay focused on the task at hand and go out and compete against the best guy,” White recalled.

Ball tweeted his support for White and some of his other former Wisconsin teammates during the combine.

Best of luck to @j_ped48 @SweetFeet_White @D_Southward12 @abbrecadabra and Chris Borland! Just go out there and do you! #NFLCombine

— Montee Ball (@ballrb28) February 22, 2014

This year, White ran the ball 221 times for 1,484 yards with 13 touchdowns.

White said he looks up to Ball’s approach, especially his attitude towards practice.

“He is a guy who gave it all he had at practice, which made it easier for him on game day,” White said. “He’s definitely a guy that led by example. He didn’t say much, but when he did, everyone listened to him.”

Support Run Rich Run on NFL Network, Tuesday of NFL Combine

As voted by YOU... @RichEisen's @UnderArmour cleats for #RunRichRun! Watch his run during the Combine on Tuesday! pic.twitter.com/h5NuRSQtbB
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) February 25, 2014

Denver Broncos - "Current State" - 2.23.14

Team Report - DENVER BRONCOS
The SportsXchange

INSIDE SLANT

Sure, Denver Broncos coach John Fox is dealing with the frustration that one can expect to extract from losing in the Super Bowl by a lopsided margin. But 18 days after the humbling 43-8 shellacking to the Seahawks, he wasn't moping about what contributed to the result.

"As you look back, get a chance to look at the tape and expound on that, I think we're capable of playing better," Fox said. "Not taking anything away from them, they had a lot to do with it. It was disappointing that we didn't play better."

"It's a team thing," Fox later added. "And they had something to do with it. Give them credit. We were just awful. I think we could have executed better. But (the Seahawks) had a little to do with that. And they did that against New Orleans twice. That's a pretty good outfit."

But Fox understood the Broncos were complicit in their own demise.

One area of consternation revolved around the Broncos' short kickoff to Percy Harvin to open the second half, which he fielded on the bounce and returned 87 yards for the touchdown that effectively ended Denver's realistic hopes of a comeback.

Fox said the kickoff was intentionally pooched. It bounced at the 13-yard line, but went straight up, allowing Harvin to get under the football and immediately sprint forward.

"It was an aggressive call. But it was a great call. It was a great kick. Just a (bad) bounce for the good guys," Fox said. "If the ball bounces anywhere other than how it did, we've got a 90 percent chance of getting it, so that would have been a nice way to start the third quarter, is by recovering a muffed pooch kick, which it was perfect, but the ball bounced straight up to him."

Once Harvin took off, the Broncos' wave of injuries exacted another toll: a chain-reaction of personnel shifts that began with the loss of several key starters and ended with shuffled special teams that resulted in three kickoff returns of at least 88 yards allowed by the Broncos from December onward.

"And then we missed five tackles," Fox said. "That (the personnel shuffling) is not an excuse. It's just what happened."

"But we didn't play well."

They didn't, but there isn't cause for panic, even though the roster will undoubtedly change in the coming weeks. With pending unrestricted free agents like running back Knowshon Moreno, wide receiver Eric Decker, guard Zane Beadles and linebacker Wesley Woodyard, the Broncos will absorb a personnel hit.

But with players like left tackle Ryan Clady, linebacker Von Miller, defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson, defensive end Derek Wolfe, cornerback Chris Harris Jr. and safety Rahim Moore expected to return from various injuries, the Broncos will get an upgrade from their Super Bowl roster even if they don't add an unrestricted free agent.

"You know, I don't know if I'd say we have a lot of high needs, but obviously every team has needs. We will get some guys back, which should help," Fox said. "I feel good about where we are and the way John (Elway) has maneuvered it moving forward. Now it's just a matter of time."

And that time is ticking down. Free agency hits March 11. Elway just signed a three-year extension, through 2017, and his next task is talking with John Fox's agent, Bob LaMonte, about the coach's extension. The two sides plan to meet at the combine.

"I want to get him done," Elway said. "I'm going to sit down with his agent while I'm here. I'm going to sit down with him, see where we come out and what they're thinking."

But what Elway and Fox are thinking is clear: as bad as the Super Bowl was, their team isn't in need of a gutting.

"It was very disappointing the way we played in the Super Bowl, but looking back not to let what we did in the Super Bowl cloud what we did this season," said Elway. "It was a tremendous year."

NOTES, QUOTES

ESPN.com Broncos reporter Jeff Legwold explains why Denver gave new contracts to 

            defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and general manager John Elway

--The Broncos have 18 players due to become unrestricted free agents, a group that includes a two-time 1,000-yard receiver (Eric Decker), their leading rusher (Knowshon Moreno), a team captain the last five seasons (Wesley Woodyard), a Pro Bowl guard (Zane Beadles), their best defensive back last season (Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie) and their leading sacker in 2013 (Shaun Phillips).

Don't expect any of them to receive the franchise tag. And don't expect Decker to be re-signed, either, given the other contracts the Broncos have and will have among pass-catchers.

"I think they have to hit the market. And the market sets those (terms)," said general manager John Elway. "So, especially when you look at where we are and what we have coming up -- Julius and (Demaryius), both Thomases are up next year. And Wes (Welker) is, too. All that plays into it."

Decker said he would entertain discussions of a return to the Broncos, but more than likely he will test the free-agent market by doing what is best for his family.

"I would like to figure something out and stay here, but at the same time, my priority is taking care of my family and making sure I set myself up the right way," Decker said Tuesday on SiriusXM NFL Radio. "If we can get on the same page and if we can understand one another, that would be awesome, but a lot of that control is not in my hands. So I'm just going to enjoy these couple of weeks off and see what it brings."

Decker hinted he may be willing to take less money for the right situation.

"The best offer to me isn't necessarily the most money," he said. "For me, am I going to have fun going to work every day? That doesn't add up to any dollar amount, that's priceless. The situation, the city, the organization itself from the top down, the owner, the GM, the coaching staff, the culture they've built in the locker room, all that's going to play into my decision."

Decker could receive one of the more lucrative contracts once the new league year begins next month.

Decker, who turns 27 in March, set career highs with 87 catches for 1,288 yards in 2013. He also had 11 touchdown receptions.

Elway said he will work to re-sign Decker. "We'd love to have Eric back, and I know Eric has made the comment that he'd like to be back, but it's just a matter of he's got to do what's best for Eric, too, and vice versa," Elway said. "That's why we go through this process. Then once we get closer to free agency, we'll have a better idea where everything's going."

--Coach John Fox was optimistic about the prognosis for cornerback Chris Harris, Jr., who underwent surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament on Feb. 6.

"Chris's (situation) was a little unique, because it wasn't completely torn," Fox said. "They said he could have played. But the problem is that if you further injure it, you could get meniscus damage."

Harris avoided that by being placed on injured reserve, and given the nature of his injury, the Broncos are optimistic he can be ready in time for training camp, even though it begins just six and a half months after he was injured on Jan. 12 against the Chargers.

"His (surgery) was not a complete reconstruct, so his was a little bit better off than some," said Fox. "Now whether that translates, I'm not a doctor, but I just know that wasn't as bad as some."

--The Broncos signed executive vice president of football operations John Elway to a three-year contract extension through the 2017 season.

In addition, the club has added general manager to Elway's title.

Said club president Joe Ellis in a statement, "Our organization is extremely pleased with the work John Elway has done in his three years since rejoining the Broncos," Ellis said. "He has demonstrated great vision and leadership in his role, assembling a championship-caliber team and positioning it for sustained success.

"We are very confident in the direction of the Broncos with John Elway leading our football operations."

--Elway wants to talk with cornerback Champ Bailey about his future, as well. Bailey is owed $10.5 million this year, including a $1 million roster bonus.

"We're still in the process of talking about that and seeing what we're going to do there," Elway said. "I'm going to sit down with Champ, first of all, and find out what he wants to do, and go from there."

In recent weeks, Bailey has expressed a willingness to accept a move to safety if that is what keeps him in the NFL for his 16th season this fall. But given his struggles with a foot injury last year that cost him 11 games and his up-and-down play when he returned, he is a prime candidate for a restructure or even a release if an accord cannot be reached.

Bailey said before Super Bowl XLVIII that he wanted to keep playing "'til I can't, or 'til I don't like it."

"I really don't know. I don't think about retiring," he added.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "Those problems in Miami, those surprise me because I think that we never had those issues in Denver when it came down to the things that went on in that locker room and the things that were said. I think that every locker room that I've ever been in in the NFL and the guys I've been around have always respected the right of other players. There is a line you don't cross. I still believe that's the way the majority of the NFL is. This brings it to light a little bit to where it prevents it from happening again. But I don't think it's something that is ... rampant throughout the NFL." -- John Elway, on his reaction to the Ted Wells report about the Dolphins.

STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL

FREE-AGENT UPDATE

S Mike Adams

DE Robert Ayers

G Zane Beadles

WR Andre Caldwell

WR Eric Decker

G Chris Kuper

LB Paris Lenon

RB Knowshon Moreno

DE Shaun Phillips

CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

LB Wesley Woodyard

TEAM NEEDS

MIDDLE LINEBACKER: Paris Lenon was a stop-gap replacement after Wesley Woodyard struggled to make plays there, and the Broncos would like to find an every-down option.

SAFETY: Mike Adams is a free agent, Rahim Moore is coming off compartment syndrome and Duke Ihenacho was inconsistent. Denver badly needs a playmaking safety.

WIDE RECEIVER: If Denver loses Eric Decker in free agency, they will need another veteran. They also need a developmental slot receiver to eventually replace Wes Welker.

Broncos Need to Pack More 'Draft' Punch

Recent Selections Have Produced More Questions Than Answers

By Ken Pomponio

COMMENTARY | With the Scouting Combine under way, that can only mean it's officially NFL Draft season.

And now that it's draft season, Denver Broncos backers need to be expecting more from the franchise's annual college selection process.

That's more impact.

More contribution.

More immediate and future starters.

This, of course, primarily falls on the still-broad shoulders of John Elway, who earlier this month had the general manager title officially added to his duties.

Since Elway joined the front office three years ago, the Orange and Blue have aced the tests on the field (three division titles, one Super Bowl appearance) and free agency (Peyton Manning, Louis Vasquez, Wes Welker).

But the three drafts under Elway have been a mixed bag at best.

Consider these quick facts and figures:
Of the 23 players the Broncos have drafted over the past three years, less than a third (seven) have developed into primary starters. And that list includes injury-addled safety Quinton Carter, who started 10 games as a rookie in 2011 but has only seen action in all of three games the last two seasons combined.
There were no primary starters who emerged from the Broncos' seven-man draft class of this past spring, with the group combining for a total of six starts (four by first-round defensive tackle Sylvester Williams and two by third-round cornerback Kayvon Webster).
Of Denver's 10 players selected in the first, second or third rounds over the last three drafts, only three (defensive lineman Derek Wolfe, safety Rahim Moore and offensive tackle Orlando Franklin) started at least half of the team's 19 games in 2013.
And of the above 10 high-round picks, only two (Franklin and linebacker Nate Irving) started for the Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII.
Overall, the Broncos' 22-man Super Bowl starting lineup featured as many players who entered the league as undrafted free agents (Welker, Chris Clark, Paris Lenon, Duke Ihenacho and Mike Adams) as were Bronco top-two round selections (Franklin, Knowshon Moreno, Demaryius Thomas, Zane Beadles and Williams).

Now sure, injuries have skewed a few of the above numbers, and it would remiss not to mention the seemingly promising futures of tight end Julius Thomas (4th round, 2011) and linebacker Danny Trevathan (6th round, 2012), who have the look of mid- and late-round steals.

Overall, though, it's too early to make long-term value assessments on players who have only been pros on a short-term basis, and there still are more questions than answers at this point. The blowout loss in the Super Bowl has only added emphasis.

Will 2011 first-rounder Von Miller, the draft's second-overall pick, be able to regain his 2011 and '12 form after a decidedly rough 2013 on and off the field?

Could the rare and mysterious ailments that befell second-rounders Moore and Wolfe this past season be career-threatening?

What if 2012 second-rounder Brock Osweiler doesn't prove to be Manning's heir apparent under center?

Can 2012 third-round selection Ronnie Hillman follow Moreno's lead and overcome early-career setbacks to become a reliable and productive NFL back?

At this juncture, heading into the 2014 offseason, these questions and more need to be asked.

And when it comes to the 2014 draft in May, more will definitely be asked of Elway and the Broncos' brass.

Ken Pomponio has spent the past 25 years as a sports journalist who has been published extensively in print and online. He's been an avid follower of the Denver sports scene since early childhood, and can be found on Twitter @kenpomp.

Original link, here
--------------

While that is all well and good, members of +BRONCOS CR3W will have to beg to differ in this regard. This piece is written on purely speculative and 'on paper' comparison's. When you have what many consider the best team in the +NFL the last two seasons. Well, at least, close to the best, if not. Without noting the injury impact on key draft picks Miller, Wolfe, Moore and the fact that there will be very little room for an incoming starter to play right away and make an impact on a team that has its core roster and added depth via free agency for many of the shallow spots on the team's roster, it is slightly unfair to throw that headline on this franchise's front office or youth movement.

Kayvon Webster (left) and Montee Ball (right) meet in Dove Valley
after being drafted in 2013

Especially considering the success they showed to have with their first 3 draft picks who were all drafted to establish depth and not expected to be leaned on like many early round picks. Defensive line to be exact is one of the more difficult transitions in the first year of a drafted player. When called upon, Sly Williams delivered and then some for a rookie as an interior DT. Kayvon Webster may have been the best 3rd round selection after Tyronn Mathieu and Keenan Allen. Also have to point out the 'headline' making positions are areas that the Broncos do not need to draft early or late for. Wolfe, Moore have delivered when called upon. If half of the drafted players experience health problems that is just plain bad luck and can befell any NFL franchise.

The single draft pick that we could understand, but we are still keeping a jury out on him, is Ronnie Hillman as being a disappointment for where he was drafted. He's still on the roster though. As mentioned, remember what people thought of Knowshon Moreno before the last couple years and even up into this last year. Other than that, Osweiler, future based. Von Miller, Wolfe, and Moore all could be made for the argument of very successful choices when they have been healthy.

Last but not least, the Broncos have a solid youth foundation as we are seeing some of those players go up for free agency and the development and success of these players has been solid enough, the +Denver Broncos may not be able to keep them because they cannot afford them if they intend on holding on to players that have also had success, and appear to be staying in Denver.

All in all, we disagree with this headline and don't really 'buy' into the fact the Broncos need more success or as it was called, "Punch," in the draft. The stigma that last year draft was very shallow and the Broncos got contributions from a few rookies says a lot. This year the Broncos go into this draft differently than the previous two and that is the fact that they're secondary is in need of some depth and their pass rush. What are these attributed too? Injuries. Much will be speculated, but not only did they retain

* First aspect, "More Immediate and future starters * but then goes on to say that it still has yet to be determined how their drafts over the last few years have gone or how good...? * So, what's with the headline? That was along the line of a +Bleacher Report +FanSided, +RantSports or a +SB Nation article. Pointless and just to have a posted headline for the sake of online traffic * The main difference is that they are calling these published, relevant 'news' articles instead of really just a mini blog post to keep posts inside the line's of a community or fan based posts. Much like the chatter of the Broncos have new uniform designs being done with Nike, which we CHOSE not to post anything about since there was absolutely no validity to the rumor or story to be found anywhere. Although every one of the blog sites above posted something regarding it... Examples of those posts, can make a person that wants actual evidence supporting the headline or statement within the article's post, smack their head, in saying where is the relevance to this headline?? Sentiments we've discussed with readers on this blog.

Normally do not get this from Ken, but this one was along those lines. Broncos do need to pack some punch in the draft but considering the wholesale changes in FA beginning two years ago, and the fact the Clady, Champ, among others are still in Denver when many proclaimed the Broncos would not be able to keep them around. Whilst adding depth via FA & draft picks. When healthy, its completely understandable that the Broncos could actually have a headline that says they need to maintain their course with both aspects and develop youth and add depth. They've missed out on adding impact players outside of Trevathan from the Backer position and have missed adding depth to their safety positions whether it was injuries or youth. Then taken into account that they grabbed "Nacho" as a rookie FA and Rahim Moore, with the development of Chris Harris, Kayvon Webster, they've done pretty well. Julius Thomas, Trevathan, Chris Harris, CJ Anderson, Zane Beadles, and players Chris Clark is evidenced that they've made a lot out of late selections &/or rookie FA...

Eric Decker to Host Football Camp with Demaryius Thomas at Mullen High School

Free agency or no free agency, Broncos or no Broncos, Eric Decker is committed to joining Demaryius Thomas in hosting a Football Pro Camp, May 17-18 at Mullen High School.

The camp dates are on a Saturday and Sunday so even if Decker signs with another team he shouldn’t expect to have a conflict with Organized Team Activity (OTA) practices.

Decker was the Broncos’ No. 2 receiver the past two years, registering 85 and 87 catches for more than 1,000 yards each season with 13 and 11 touchdowns.

Thomas was the Broncos’ No. 1 receiver. He had 92 and 94 catches the past two seasons, for more than 1,300 yards each with 10 and 14 touchdowns.

Decker will become a free agent on March 11, meaning he is free to sign with another club, although his commitment to his football camp is a sign his preference is to remain a Bronco. Thomas has one more year left on his contract.

Camp participants will learn fundamental football skills and have the opportunity to meet and interact with the receivers. Each camper will receive an autograph from Thomas and Decker and be included with them in a team photo.

Besides Thomas and Decker, several prep and college coaches from the area will serve as instructors. The camp is open to boys and girls of all skill levels from grades 1 to 8. The cost is $199.

For more information, go to DeckerThomasCamp.com

Market for Broncos WR Eric Decker

+ESPN +NFL Insiders on the Market for Eric Decker, FA, whom has played his first 4 seasons with the +Denver Broncos.

NFL Bump in Salary Cap Figure adds Space to the Broncos Funds to Work With

INDIANAPOLIS -- For the past few weeks many in the league believed the salary cap for the 2014 season would be about $126.3 million per team. But with ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter’s report Thursday that the cap will show a bigger bump from this past season’s $123 million per team, coming in at $130 million, the Denver Broncos will have slightly more room to work with as they go about the business of filling the depth chart.

Under John Elway, the Broncos have taken a measured approach for the most part in free agency. Certainly Peyton Manning's signing in 2012 doesn’t qualify as measured, but for the most part the Broncos have used one- and two-year deals for their veteran free agents.

This past year, guard Louis Vasquez received a four-year deal on his way to an All-Pro season, but Terrance Knighton and Wes Welker received two-year deals. Stewart Bradleyand Shaun Phillips signed one-year contracts, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie signed what was a two-year deal on paper, but turned into a one-year deal five days after the Super Bowl.

When free agency opens in March, the Broncos will have to be under the salary cap with their top 51 contracts. At the moment, those top 51 salary-cap figures for players under contract amounts to $117.8 million. By a rule put in with the current collective bargaining agreement, the Broncos can also roll over any available cap space from this past season into 2014.

That figure is $6.573 million. So, including the rollover, the Broncos actually will have about $18.673 million worth of cap space to work with in the coming weeks. And that is before the Broncos do, or don’t, talk to Champ Bailey about his $10 million cap figure for 2014 -- the second highest on the team -- or Chris Kuper’s $5.915 million cap figure, seventh highest on the team.

H/T to Jeff Logwold from +ESPN : Original Link here

Potential fit for safety and secondary for Denver Broncos, in Calvin Pryor, former Louisville Cardinals' Safety

"Looks the part" (in highlight reel, most should look as such) to be chosen, welcomed in Mile High for +Denver Broncos. +BRONCOS CR3W has no true idea what his stock sits at right now, but we would love to see him in ORANGE! We don't focus on draft stock until after combine and pro-days are being completed to be more accurate and fair to you, the reader and audience.

Another player of note off the top of my mind with lil' draft stock, deep expertise, but the names that were relevant over the college football season that are remembered regarding the positions that became thinned down over the season or became apparent as a position of need for the Broncos and more to come and follow. Kyle Fuller from +Virginia Tech in regards to first day draft potential... Tough to believe that Calvin Pryor will fall to 31 at this point but its a deep draft and how the Broncos address UFA as well.

One that had raw moments in college but has some serious size, 6'3" 215 for a cornerback; that's right, not a safety in that frame! And when/if developed properly could be an abysmal matchup for bigger physical type WR's, is Keith McGill from +UTES CR3W, +University of Utah Athletics for a 2nd Day pick. (Two staff members here have +Pac-12 Conference ties as +UTES CR3W alma mater aka Crimson Club).

*We have no rights to the video and the footage provided*

Peyton's 55

Says a lot when you know what the 55 is in reference too. This is a guaranteed "chills' reel that can be watched again and again... It never gets old and its always an uplifter :D #MILEHIGHMAGIC #PFM #Elway #MileHighCR3W #BroncosCR3W +Denver Broncos 55 TD Passes this year. +BRONCOS CR3W savoring every piece of the records by the Broncos in +NFL history! .

Peyton's 55

Quick Take on Broncos, Draft, and Pick #31: Mike Mayock NFL Draft Expert on NFL Network

Mayock on who might be good for Broncos at 31st overall pick

NFL Network’s draft guru Mike Mayock held a media conference call Tuesday as a primer to the scouting combine this week in Indianapolis.

The Broncos don’t pick until No. 31 which is fine because Mayock said “from my perspective this is the deepest and best draft class that I've seen in probably 10 years.” 

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*Our Take*

*We agree with him as well. The change of style in football over the last 10 years or so have now produced these players to play BIG, FAST, PHYSICAL in small to large areas. 10 yard x 10 yard area square yards (Von Miller excels at aka 3 cone drill) We cannot emphasize the importance of the 3 cone drill and the first 10 and 20 yards of a 40 yards dash is FAR more important than a full 40 time. That "burst" is self evident. 

We wish pro days revealed and kept record of the 10 and 20 yard split times as they reveal quickness and speed top end. The players rarely just run straight in a game. The have to change their direction often. Shift, stop, restart, etc. 40 yard time in many aspects is the most irrelevant measurable that is still used by scouts for which we do not really understand why its emphasized so much. Worth mentioning? We suppose so, but not the first to be looked at or mentioned or superimposed on the players bio and graphic on screen.

Then some players, few, nickel LB, safeties, slot DB's may play on occasion in much bigger areas at 20 yards X 35 yards or so. Special teams normally is that situation for the gunners and staple of LB/TE/RB sized players compared to the straight gunners down on kicks. 

Over the change in style, these prospects have established skills tailored to use a fast pace on the offense and the defense is built to play in space and faster defensive ends and more defensive backs involved more often. Nickel and Dime packages because of 3, 4 WR sets, and even empty sets. The vast majority is done in shotgun too. This lends to speed pass rush whether is via strength or pace. The biggest characteristic is not measurable, how they react to the real thing and the biggest variable in most aspects of life and all of athletics: Anticipation
------------

In my opinion, Mayock started pushing ESPN’s Mel Kiper for top draft expert in 2006 when Mayock said Jay Cutler was a better NFL quarterback prospect than Vince Young or Matt Leinart.

Mayock looked pretty smart there. Then again, Kiper was concerned with Cutler’s 11-34 record at Vanderbilt.

---------------
* Our Take - We'd put McShay far past Kiper and Mayock with McShay. Kiper knows draft prospects excellently and who is the best equipped players at this very moment, but forecasting their NFL careers or the potential for schemes, teams, coaches, etc is where McShay and Mayock set themselves apart more. All that in regard though, Just like national recruiting day in the NCAA, the Broncos had 2 and 3 star recruits dominate their roster. "Only Time will Tell, not a person." - C. Haws

Granted, the 'blue chip' ranking weren't out when Peyton and Champ were recruited so that would give them a couple 5 star recruits more, but it still wasn't close to the 1,2, and 3 star recruits that were on the roster in comparison to 4, 5 star recruits. Be interested to see what round or rated prospect exists across NFL rosters. Would not surprise us to know that 4th round or later have made impact or numbers challenge the first 3 round picks and even more if it were just the 1st and 2nd rounds and 3rd went to the other category. 

Ranking drafts and recruiting classes are meaningless. Rank them a few years later or even at least one season. Almost everyone claimed the Vikings made off with the incredible draft last year and they are sitting even in a higher draft position this season. Draft prospects and their ratings are as accurate or predictable as the national scouting ranking for HS athletes being recruited for college athletics.
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Anyway, I gave Mayock four positions the Broncos might consider with the No. 31 overall pick. Here’s what Mayock said about each:

Middle linebacker (Keith Brooking, 37, and Paris Lenon, 36, started the past two years): “That whole middle linebacker thing is interesting to me. Most people would say it’s a little high, a little rich for (Wisconsin’s) Chris Borland but I don’t believe that. I think Borland could step in and immediately stabilize that whole situation.”

Defensive end (Shaun Phillips and Robert Ayers are free agents; Derek Wolfe returning from seizure-like illness): “Scott Crichton is an interesting guy from Oregon State at defensive end. He’s got a great effort, motor, tough against the run, will get upfield fast. I like him a lot and 31 is about right for him.”

Cornerback (Champ Bailey will be 36; Chris Harris coming off ACL; Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is free agent. And I told Mayock the Broncos like larger, Seahawk-sized corners)): “Kyle Fuller from Virginia Tech. He’s a longer corner, I think he can flat out play. I’m anxious to see what he runs. Some of these other corners, somebody like Keith McGill, you can get him in the second or third round from Utah. He’s 6-foot-3. I watched his UCLA tape the other day. He’s got some real skills being a Seattle type corner he just needs to be more consistent.”

Safety (Mike Adams is a free agent; Rahim Moore has unusual circulation condition; Duke Ihenacho faded): “Lamarcus Joyner from Florida State could be there. He’s an explosive quick-twitch athlete who could play safety or nickel. He played mostly corner at Florida State and he’s going to have some special team ability, also. I like him a lot.

Depending on how the draft picks unfold but we really really like Crichton from +Oregon State University at that spot. Presuming Barr and the more or less LB/DE hybrid top prospects have been passed up. Ideally Derek Wolfe is able to play at full strength again and really come into his own with Jackson and Crichton would form a very versatile, athletic, big line. We absolutely LOVE Kyle Fuller and if he is available, from this point, he still has a pro day and combine to attend (not sure how much he'll do at the combine). If the Broncos like Borland, we feel they shouldn't use their first on him and if late 2nd is way too far of a drop for him, Skov from Stanford can play pretty good football. Keith McGill is raw but he is very big and strong and is absolutely worth a 2nd rounder. Kyle Whittingham and the Utes schemetically have proven to turn players into pro talent at the DB position. Weddle, Sean Smith, and McCain to name just a few and now they're bringing in higher star recruits switching to the +Pac-12 Conference. He is maybe the biggest DB in the draft. Certainly has size to play safety. He sometimes needs to play to his size and use it as a major strength. Something the NFL teach raw talented DB is their positioning. They either find out they're up for the level of play cognitively AND physically. Some DE/WR and more DB's to be discussed in the future, of course. +BRONCOS CR3W +Denver Broncos #BroncosCR3W #Broncos. Cannot dismiss the contribution and explosive anticipation that is draped all over +Florida State Seminoles Lamarcus Joyner. The fact he contributes to special teams is ALL the more reason to love him. We have been the utmost critical of the Broncos special teams personnel and coaching (Holliday being a big part of that). Can't go wrong with either and there is expected to be some fairly nasty dogs on the DL coming down the board into the 2nd and 3rd rounds. In Elway we trust. "Only Time will Tell, not a person..."

Chris Harris Feels Rehab is Going Quickly, Ahead of Schedule?

Chris Harris tackles +Chargers RB, Danny Woodhead in
NFL playoffs Divisional Round +Denver Broncos victory.
(Denver Broncos - AP)

The Denver Broncos sorely missed Chris Harris in the Super Bowl drubbing they absorbed at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks, but the productive young cornerback says he's "ahead of schedule" after partially tearing his ACL in January's playoff win over the San Diego Chargers.

Harris told MileHighReport.com this week that he's off crutches and "doing great" ahead of becoming a restricted free agent on March 11. The knee injury will prevent a lucrative, long-term deal, but The Denver Post expects the Broncos to drape Harris with a one-year, second-round tender, a strategy that typically prevents opposing teams from stealing away an RFA.

Cited as a Making the Leap candidate last July, Harris delivered in full this past season, finishing as one of the league's higher ranked cornerback by many analyst of the game and under the radar. One announcer that seems to really really like Harris, is Phil Simms from +CBS Sports Network that gets several of the broadcasts for the Broncos games since CBS carries AFC teams/games per their TV contract with the +NFL with three interceptions and 13 defensed passes.

Few regard Harris in the company that +BRONCOS CR3W does. When he took over the slot DB position last year  Only seven cover men rattled quarterbacks into a lower passer rating than the 64.9 mark Harris yielded in coverage.

With fellow cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie set to become an unrestricted free agent and Tony Carter looming as another RFA, the Broncos have plenty to ponder in the secondary.

While the aging Champ Bailey boasts a Hall of Fame resume, Harris -- today -- is Denver's best corner. While the young RFA won't get the contract he hoped for this spring, he almost certainly will have the chance to play for a big-money deal with the Broncos heading into next offseason.

Broncos WR, Eric Decker, is not all About the Money regarding NFL Contract, Future

Market For Eric Decker

Adam Caplan and Billy Devaney discuss the market for free-agent WR Eric Decker

Eric Decker says money won't be the only factor when it comes to his decision on whether to re-sign with the Denver Broncos.

"It's not all about the money for me. It's about going to work every day and having fun and enjoying my job," the veteran receiver said on SiriusXM NFL Radio.

AP Photo/Paul Spinelli

Eric Decker, set to become an unrestricted free agent next month, made 87 receptions for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns with Denver last season.

Expected to be one of the top unrestricted free agents available when the market opens March 11, Decker thrived in the Broncos' record-setting offense led by Peyton Manning last season, catching 87 passes for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns. He hauled in 85 passes for 1,064 yards and 13 scores in his first season with Manning in Denver.

Decker, 26, said in the interview that he enjoys the culture around the Broncos and has not closed the door on remaining with the team.

"If we can get on the same page, I will welcome a call from the Broncos, but I need to do what is best for my family," he said.

Decker offered similar thoughts at the end of the season when he cleaned out his locker.

"There is a side of playing football and there is the business side," Decker said. "That's something that obviously I'll have to have conversations with my representation. I want to do the best thing for my family and myself. This is an organization that any player wants to come to. I mean, they treat you first-class. It's a winning organization. They've built a culture here that is phenomenal. I would love to play here. Unfortunately, that's something that isn't always in my control. You've just got to take it in stride and again, have those conversations, see what the next couple of months will bring."

This is the first foray into free agency for Decker, who could have the franchise tag used on him. But that may be unlikely because Demaryius Thomas, widely considered to be the club's No. 1 receiver, and tight end Julius Thomas are entering contract years in 2014, which means the team will have to set aside money to ensure neither reaches free agency.

Information from ESPN.com Broncos reporter Jeff Legwold was used in this report.

Safety, Louis Delmas, to Visit Dove Valley and the Broncos

Former Lions S Louis Delmas will be lining up more visits after the combine. Atlanta and Denver among the interested teams
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 17, 2014

Here is a piece from last year's off-season when the Lions looked to allow him become an unrestricted free agent from +NFL.

Today's edition of the tell-em-why-you-mad-son file features Detroit Lions safety Louis Delmas.

The will-be free agent was in Detroit for a physical Friday -- at the request of the Lions -- and dropped the week's best analogy on Detroit Free Press reporter Dave Birkett.

Offseason Forecast: Lions

"I almost feel like a girlfriend waiting at home that's got a boyfriend that's cheating on her," said Delmas, who would prefer to remain a Lion. "But it is what it is. I'm trying to see if I can stay at home and get a couple more years out of him.

"The Lions are cheating on me. They're going to the club every damn night and staying out late night, trying to come back home to Daddy. But it's all right."

Delmas isn't bitter or upset about the situation, and he has no expectations from the Lions. "If something could get done today," Delmas said, "something would have got done two months ago." He believes eight teams will be interested in his services, but Michigan is home.

Delmas has been the full-time starter since he was drafted out of Western Michigan in 2009, but missed 13 games the last two seasons with knee issues. Detroit needs all the talent it can get in the defensive backfield, but availability is the major concern.

We'll see if Friday's physical alleviated any of those worries.

UPDATE: NFL.com's Albert Breer reported Friday night, per a source involved in the situation, that Delmas has an offer from the Lions but will hit the free-agent market and weigh his options.

Follow Kareem Copeland on Twitter @kareemcopeland.

Link and video clip on NFL.com:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-path-to-the-draft/0ap2000000147229/Will-the-Lions-focus-on-their-secondary-in-the-draft

Praters Week 14 Kicks are in Canton, Ohio, NFL Hall of Fame

The shoes @Broncos K Matt Prater wore on Dec. 8 when he booted a @nfl-record 64-yard FG has arrived in Canton! pic.twitter.com/XQuBmh5DKj

— Pro Football HOF (@ProFootballHOF) February 17, 2014

Broncos Off Season Outlook on Fox Football Daily

The usual bulletin points: Window is closing (aren't all teams' window's closing technically0? Will they be able to afford Decker? Peyton and Broncos are 'kind of' the favorite's by default because of the AFC. When normally they have no further idea about what they are speaking about than even us?! :D haha GO BRONCOS! Elway has this on lock!

Montee Ball Ready for Role

Montee Ball ready to take over Denver's backfield

Broncos running back Montee Ball never had much of a chance to be the primary rusher for the team in 2013 because of Knowshon Moreno's exploits. But Moreno might be on the move this spring, and that would open up the chance at getting the primary workload.

Ball would jump at that chance.

"I do want to be a starter, and yeah, I want the football every time," Ball told the Denver Post. "I think I'm going to have a great offseason, and I'm going to have a better season next year for sure."  

Montee Ball runs vs the +Chargers in the AFC
Divisional Round playoff win.
Photo Courtesy: Denver Broncos (AP)

Ball might have to work on his pass protection, a huge deal in Denver since Peyton Manning is the quarterback, and he also has to hang on tight to the football after fumbling twice in his first 31 carries. But Ball knows he can take what he learned this season and apply it to what he does in the offseason to become a starter.

"It was a very unfortunate situation for us, obviously, in the Super Bowl, but it gave us a lot to work for," Ball said. "We understand how much it took to get there, and for me as a rookie, it was great to be a part of the process leading up to the Super Bowl, because I truly understand what it takes. And I'm going to play a huge role in next year's success, and I'm really looking forward to it."

Denver Broncos CR3W Off-Season Timeline

Denver Broncos 2014 offseason calendar 

H/T to +NFL +Denver Broncos +CBSSports.com +Mile High Report  

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Key dates on the Denver Broncos 2014 offseason calendar, and for most of the NFL, most important event of the offseason doesn't have a publicly-known date.

That is the physical of Peyton Manning for his neck fusion, where it will be determined if the quarterback can not continue to do as he intends, play for the Broncos in the NFL. Manning said the 43-8 Super Bowl loss didn't "change anything" as far as his intent to play, so the only thing potentially holding him back from returning to the Broncos in 2014 would be an unexpected physical result some point in March.

Nearly everyone expects Manning to be cleared to play, but the completion of this physical will allow Denver and all of +BRONCOS CR3W to ante up for high hopes next season.

Feb 3 - Waiver system begins for 2014 with a 24-hour claiming period. Players with four or more accrued seasons are not eligible for the waiver system until after the trade deadline.

Feb 17 - Mar 3 - Franchise tag period. Teams have until 4:00 p.m. March 3rd to designate franchise or transition players.

February 19 - 25 - Mock drafts get shaken up as the Scouting Combine takes place in Indianapolis.

Mar TBD - Peyton Manning undergoes his neck physical, likely before March 11th.

Mar 8 - Negotiation period for 2014 free agents. NFL clubs are permitted to contact, and enter into contract negotiations with, the certified agents of players who will become UFAs upon the expiration of their 2013 contracts.

Mar 11 - Free agency begins at 4:00 p.m. EST (2:00 p.m. Mile High time). Trading period begins. All teams must be under the 2014 Salary Cap. All teams must submit qualifying offers to their Restricted Free Agents prior to 4:00 p.m. This marks the beginning of the League Year.

Mar 23-26 - NFL Annual Meeting (source +CBSSports.com). 2014 NFL Draft compensatory picks will be awarded - Broncos are not expected to receive any.

Apr TBD - The 2014 NFL Schedule is expected to be announced.

Apr 21 - Broncos offseason workouts can begin, running through May.

May 2 - Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.

May 8-10 - The 2014 NFL Draft. Broncos are set to draft 31st.

May TBD - Rookie minicamp.

May 19-21 - NFL Spring League Meeting in Atlanta.

May-Jun TBD - Organized Team Activities (OTAs).

Jun TBD - Mandatory minicamp.

Jul 15 - If the Broncos franchise tag a player, this is the last day they can sign him to a long-term deal; otherwise the player must finish the 2014 season on his one-year deal.

Jul TBD - Usually starting in very late July, Broncos training camp begins, running through August.