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        the Gridiron >> the Red Zone >>  Broncos Offseason Report
        
(Message started by: StegRock on Mar 26^th, 2005, 6:19pm)

Title: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Mar 26^th, 2005, 6:19pm

Been a quiet, but, I think, rather effective, offseason for the Donkos, thus far. However, I think it's all up 'til this point fairly summarized on our JUST-UPDATED, [smiley=awwgee.gif] in-house Broncos FF-specific team report page:

http://www.ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 1^st, 2005, 6:54pm

Broncos trade Droughns for Ekuban, Myers.
Droughns goes to Cleveland:

http://broncos.scout.com/2/364969.html

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Apr 1^st, 2005, 6:56pm

From "The REAL Feed", a piece on Denver's woeful defensive line worth a look-see:

Pasquarelli: Defenseless in Denver (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2027049&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233)
ESPN: NFL (01.04.2005 15:17)
Defensive line woes continue for Broncos by Len Pasquarelli

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 1^st, 2005, 6:59pm

Broncos add Ron Dayne to backfield:

http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c=sportsnetwork&page=/nfl/news/ABN3825190.htm

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 23^rd, 2005, 11:02pm

Holy Freakin' Cow.

For anyone who didn't stay, Maurice Clarett was the last pick of Round 3 - Denver.

Crap.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Apr 24^th, 2005, 9:15am

Nothing quite like a little drama to end day one, eh? So does Clarett become the next 1000-yard rusher in Denver?

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 24^th, 2005, 11:55am

Denver does seem to know a little something about that position.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Apr 25^th, 2005, 9:12am

Clarett was constantly criticized for showing poor judgment in many of his decisions. I think Coach Sham-I-am made just as poor a decision by selecting Clarett so early. Regardless of his football abilities, I think Clarett really needed the slap in the face of being a much later pick to get him to produce. Now he can sit back and feel that he's been doing the right thing all along because he is a first-day pick.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Apr 26^th, 2005, 6:50pm

on 03/04/04 at 14:47:37, StegRock wrote:

I think Garner would be an AWESOME one- or two-year stopgap for my Donkos. [smiley=broncofan.gif] However, he is also on the Lions and Buccaneers' radar. Anyway, given the fairly plethorous group of RB's entering the draft this year, the possibility of Clarett's falling to the second round, and the veteran free-agent pool/pool of (disgruntled) veterans who will likely change teams in '04, which includes good quality like Garner, Staley, Hearst, Dillon, Wheatley, A. Smith, it just goes to show how BRILLIANT of a move the Portis-for-Bailey deal is. I could DEFINITELY see Denver grabbin' a guy like Garner or Staley, ridin' him for a year or two, and drafting Clarett, either in the second round or by trading up if need be, and having him step up in a year or two. SOUNDS LIKE A PLAN, HUH? [smiley=yes.gif] ... [smiley=lickinmychops.gif]

Toot-toot!!!

Suffice it to say that I totally think Clarett is right where he belongs and will, eventually, have a chance to thrive and turn himself into a BIG-time talent.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Apr 29^th, 2005, 4:20pm

Steg, do you really believe Clarett will do much of anything this year ? He kind of seems like a Lawrence Phillips waiting to happen.

As far as Clarett being the next Denver 1,000 yard rusher, that might happen if Tatum Bell can't stay in one piece, and Quentin Griffin and Ron Dayne are abducted by aliens.

Otherwise, it is more likely that Clarett gets released at some point this season. I say this because I don't even believe that Shanahan has seen him play that much, it sounds like he took the advice of one of his assistant coaches in the decision to draft him.

I think Philly is right, Clarett was a reach in the third round. Denver could have gotten him much later.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by KillerKingSting on Apr 30^th, 2005, 8:33am

on 04/29/05 at 16:20:21, junkyardjake wrote:

I think Philly is right, Clarett was a reach in the third round. Denver could have gotten him much later.

Actually, from what I understand, Parcell's would have grabbed Clarett soon thereafter (4th round I believe) had Shanny not gotten him in the third.

So if a team wanted him - and Denver did - the 3rd round was a no brainer. After that - you'd gamble on not being able to draft him.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Apr 30^th, 2005, 10:33am

Quote:

Actually, from what I understand, Parcell's would have grabbed Clarett soon thereafter (4th round I believe) had Shanny not gotten him in the third.

Good point, I saw that too, Parcells said he would have taken Clarett in the 4th round. However, you have to wonder how public you want to be with your draft intentions if you really want to select a player. Is it possible Parcells was bluffing ?

I don't know, hopefully it works out for Clarett, but he's going to have to get in shape, that boy was sloooooow in his workouts. You have to put the gamefilm on fast forward to get him up to Mike Williams 4.6 40 time.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Apr 30^th, 2005, 12:29pm

Can't vouch for the truth of it, but during the draft broadcast they were saying Clarett was "weak" from losing a lot of weight. The story is that he had been given bad advice to bulk up. New advisors said that that was bogus, trim down. So he had just lost a lot of weight fast.

Sorry this is so lean (no pun intended), I'm just going from memory.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by KillerKingSting on Apr 30^th, 2005, 4:44pm

on 04/30/05 at 10:33:39, junkyardjake wrote:

Certainly, these are specifics that we will never TRULY "know". All we could do at this point - is gather the peripheral information and make an educated guess as to what is what.

Given that - Parcells also made it known that he coveted DeMarcus Ware as well - AND Marcus Spears - yet, despite the fact he tried to move up in the first round of the draft - and FAILED to do so - several times to ensure he would BEE able to nab Spears at the #20 -
he was still able to get both of his players - and it was KNOWN he wanted them as well - IN the 1st round.

Part of what this tells me is that - this is/was a draft that was so specific on "need" that - your player could be there at your draft spot even if you were drafting #20.

Not everyone needed a 3-4 defensive end because not everyone is running a 3-4 defense (or hybrid 3-4/4-3). And, not everyone needed a 3-4 OLB - ala DeMarcus - who could also play a 4-3 right-sided DE.

The specificity of team needs and the changing of the NFL landscape - both on offense and defense made this draft a very very unique one indeed.

How this fits into the specifity of Clarett? It probably doesn't - the point was (TEE HEE BEE - I traveled afar from my original point!) - Parcells did - for whatever reason - made it BEE known he wanted Demarcus Ware and Spears and was still able to get them both despite not having to move up in the draft to get them (specifically Spears).

One last note on the publicity of making your draft picks known this year (apparently the Skins did as well with J.Campbell - though, that may have been a leak of information), -

when the whole world knows that every team is pretty much blowing smoke screens on who their are going to draft during the pre-draft frenzy - perhaps the most ingenuis strategy would be to tell the truth on your pick in the first round and then, others would disregard it thinking it was a smoke screen -

when it really wasn't.
[smiley=fingerscrossed.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 2^nd, 2005, 5:40pm

on 04/29/05 at 16:20:21, junkyardjake wrote:

I think Philly is right, Clarett was a reach in the third round. Denver could have gotten him much later.

I'll address the rest later. I don't have time now... [smiley=drown.gif] finals week! [smiley=RIF.gif] And, I want to go out like a champ! [smiley=trophy.gif] ... [smiley=surfing.gif] Regarding the above, though, Denver did not have another pick until late-late in the 6th round, pick 200. Though he might have made it through round 5, there is a good chance he would not have made it to that pick.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by bgsgfan on May 3^rd, 2005, 2:41am

Clarrett is going to be a stud. Great vision, heart, instincts. Perfect fit for Broncos running game. Absolutely, positively will not get cut this year (ridiculuous comment). Also: he is not a druggie, wife-beater, or basically a bad guy in any manner and comparing him to other "bad-character" guys is kind of ridiculous. A case could easily be made that a lot of what has given him a bad Rap is actually stuff that shows he has a great character (and the rest of it thrown out to typical youthful stupidity). But all that is over - on the field he has "Allen Iverson"-type heart (but as a Champion and winner). ;)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 3^rd, 2005, 9:12am

on 05/03/05 at 02:41:07, bgsgfan wrote:

I'll grant you the youthful stupidity with regards to his escapades while at OSU. But what happened in the time since then still doesn't show any signs of maturation. He's a quitter if things don't go his way. There's also very little history to show that he's a good RB. He played part of a season for a tremendous team with an outstanding offensive line to open holes for him. Can he be successful in Denver? I'm sure it's possible. They have a history of successful RBs (although it could be argued that it is the system more than uncovering hidden gems in the RB market). My prediction is that Clarett will make the team and sit on the bench behind Bell and Griffin. I'd also be surprised if he doesn't show more poor judgment either in his dealings with the team or media or something off-field.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by bgsgfan on May 3^rd, 2005, 1:36pm

That offensive line was supposed to be great, but several other highly recruited (from high school) RBs did nothing behind it that year or the next. The big difference between them and Clarrett was his ability to see the hole. The other RBs were bigger or faster - but it did not translate onto the field where Clarrett just dominated.

That was college and this is the NFL, so who knows? However, the Broncos run-blocking scheme is perfectly suited for Clarrett and I am looking forward to seeing him play.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on May 17^th, 2005, 12:35pm

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpcTFhbmEwBF9TAzk1ODYxMDU5BHNlYwN0bQ--?slug=ap-broncos-anderson&prov=ap&type=lgns

Mike Anderson thinks he'll be the starter for the Broncos this season:

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 17^th, 2005, 1:28pm

A follow-up to BW's post right above... here's the report as it appears on "The REAL Feed (http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/newsstand.htm)":

Remember him? Anderson rejoins Denver's deep group of backs
SI.com: NFL (17.05.2005 03:00)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 19^th, 2005, 7:02pm

Jerry Rice's agent calls talks about deal with Broncos 'excellent'

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/8483363

Actually, I wouldn't be surprised to see this happen. Rice is an excellent mentor, and he just wants to stay in the game for at least another season.

Rice had a working relationship with Shanny in the early 90's; Rice would serve triple duty as coach, back-up, and voice-of-reason in the locker room and on the field; and Shanny would probably pump this deal just to jack the Raiders.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 19^th, 2005, 7:45pm

Just a follow-up on Callie's report. ESPN's write-up from off "The REAL Feed":

Rice talked to Shanahan about joining Broncos (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2063837&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233)
ESPN: NFL (19.05.2005 12:39)
Rice's agent says 'there's some interest on both sides' by Associated Press

Two things to say... I love my Donkos [smiley=broncofan.gif] and I love Jerry... [smiley=smitten.gif] a perfect twilight marriage.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 20^th, 2005, 7:51pm

Just lettin' ya'll know that news and talk regarding both Jerry Rice and Maurice Clarett is currently flooding "The REAL Feed (http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/newsstand.htm)"! No big announcements as of yet, but lots of chatter!

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 22^nd, 2005, 11:22am

"An invitation to have NFL receiving legend Jerry Rice join the Denver Broncos has been formally extended. All that remains is Rice's RSVP.

Rice will take the weekend to consider the offer before informing the Broncos of his decision early next week."

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/broncos/article/0,1299,DRMN_17_3795709,00.html

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 25^th, 2005, 2:02pm

In case you haven't heard, Rice is a Bronco - signed one year deal:

http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/ESPNSports/story?id=789899

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 27^th, 2005, 5:48pm

HOT OFF THE PRESSES...

Fantasy perspective on Rice's coming to town... [smiley=howtoput.gif] Follow the link...

http://www.ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm.

Enjoy! [smiley=lickinmychops.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on May 27^th, 2005, 11:21pm

[smiley=shiteatingrin.gif]Denver is now the first place for second chances [smiley=shiteatingrin.gif]:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/05/27/bc.fbn.denverraiders.ap/index.html

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 23^rd, 2005, 1:43pm

Just a nice read recapping the offseason and setting the stage for the opening of training camp in Denver. From "The REAL Feed":

Broncos have plenty to talk about at camp (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/wires/07/23/2020.ap.fbn.broncos.training.camp.bjt.0798/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (23.07.2005 01:51)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 28^th, 2005, 11:15pm

Clarett's in the fold... officially... From "The REAL Feed":

Broncos sign Clarett (http://www.fresnobee.com/24hour/sports/football/nfl/story/2592146p-11035973c.html)
Fresno Bee: Football (28.07.2005 21:08)
Running back Maurice Clarett, who challengedthe NFL's draft rules in 2004 and lost, has signed a contract with the DenverBroncos.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 29^th, 2005, 10:38pm

Clarett embeds his own incentive... So, he has reason to push himself... GREAT... or so it seems... This also gives the Broncos a reason to hold him back (in the first four years), use him as a role player... to give Bell (and Co.) blows... Hmmmm... [smiley=hmmmm.gif] How will this drama play out? ... From "The REAL Feed":

Clarett takes the high-risk, high-reward road again (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/wires/07/29/2020.ap.fbn.clarett.s.contract.bjt.0774/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (29.07.2005 17:30)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Jul 30^th, 2005, 7:47pm

And if you had to look into your crystal ball, how do you think this drama will play out??? [smiley=crystalball.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Jul 30^th, 2005, 9:11pm

I'll jump in here.

Clarett hasn't played in 2 years, he's slow, he's injury prone, and he has been very immature. Oh, yeah. And he's fighting for a back-up slot on an RB rich team.

That said - Clarett has the size, can catch, and breaks tackles. But a lot of college players look great until they play with the big boys. The first thing he has done so far that impresses is to forego the signing bonus and go for the incentives. That seems to be his way to reinvent himself. I have no problem with that, and if anyone can make him what he wants to be, it's the Broncos. They know what they see in him so far, and they know RBs.

So at this point, he's a rookie project. The rest is up to him.

Edit:

Sorry, I was unfair because I didn't give a Crystal Ball comment. I see Clarett struggling, traded, and making his career on some other team. I say it's Bell this year, and I would guess that Clarett will struggle then get traded then go to an RB needful team. (Steg can save this to shove down my throat in case I'm wrong ;D. More fun that way!)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 1^st, 2005, 5:13pm

Earlier today I got my "Broncos Player Rankings" up on my "Broncos FF-specific Team News & Notes" page. Check it all out by clicking the link below:

http://www.ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm.

This is an EXCLUSIVE of the FantasyFootballer.com network! All of our site team correspondents will be unveiling like rankings soon! Fellow Gridironers, GET THE GOOD WORD OUT!!! This is original, exclusive content UNMATCHED anywhere on the internet. [smiley=lickinmychops.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 1^st, 2005, 8:15pm

Straight-up trade, standard scoring, no points per reception:

Would you trade Eric Shelton for Mike Anderson? (The competition owns Foster, and I own Bell. That's what makes it interesting.)

Edit: Re-draft league.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 1^st, 2005, 9:28pm

NOOOOOO, Callie!!! Shelton has WAY MORE upside!!! Versus the #6 ranking I gave Anderson in my "Broncos Player Rankings (http://www.ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm)", I'd give Shelton a High #4 if I were doing the Panthers.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 2^nd, 2005, 9:11am

on 08/01/05 at 20:15:40, Callie wrote:

I agree... even in a redraft league Shelton has more upside. Mike Anderson will likely play fullback this season. There's a time for handcuffs, but this isn't one of them. Hang onto Shelton and charge your fellow owner a LOT more once Foster gets hurt.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 2^nd, 2005, 2:48pm

Thanks, guys!

I felt the same way about it as StegRock did when the trade offer came in, but I thought I'd see if you guys had any input I should consider before saying "no way." I'm in good shape for RB's and backup RB's in that league, but as backups usually go, some of my backups won't do much without an injury above them on the depth chart. D. McAllister, T. Bell, M. Bennett, E. Shelton, V. Haynes, A. Thomas. (Good sized league.)

Also, good ploy Philly you sly dog. ;)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 5^th, 2005, 1:10am

From "The REAL Feed":

Broncos DL Brown dislocates elbow, out 3-6 weeks (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2125106&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233)
ESPN: NFL (04.08.2005 19:02)
Brown dislocates left elbow during practice drill by Associated PressDENVER -- Broncos defensive lineman Courtney Brown dislocated his left elbow Thursday, a setback that is expected to keep him out three to six weeks and yet another in a series of injuries that have hampered his career. Bro...

Frankly speaking, and I'm the Broncos guy around here, I don't know if this even matters... Broncos-wise, fantasy-wise or otherwise... [smiley=stilldunno.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by bgsgfan on Aug 11^th, 2005, 4:31pm

From the Real Feed...

Thursday roundup: Clarett's MRI brings good news
ESPN: NFL (11.08.2005 10:04)
Clarett's MRI brings good news by ESPN.com news services
Denver Broncos: An MRI performed on rookie running back Maurice Clarett shows no sign of a tear in his groin muscle. Clarett has been slowed by a groin injury for most of camp, and reaggravated it recently. Broncos coach Shanahan said Clar...

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2131376&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 17^th, 2005, 7:52am

The cream always rises to the top... From "The REAL Feed":

Rice moves to third on Broncos depth chart (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2135146&CMP=OTC-DT9705204233)
ESPN: NFL (16.08.2005 05:56)
Broncos make Rice third option at WR by Associated PressDENVER -- Jerry Rice moved up the Denver Broncos depth chart Monday, running as the No. 3 receiver at practice ahead of Darius Watts. Rice was already considered a near shoo-in to make the roster and continue his record-setting career i...

I'm tellin' yous... The guy's not done,... not on the NFL gridiron, not on the fantasy gridiron. He will eat into Smith's and Lelie's numbers this year and at the end of it all a 22nd return won't be out of the question.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by prm on Aug 19^th, 2005, 7:42pm

?.?.?...mike anderson - still undrafted in my league - i can get him for a buck (cap) - but $5 to me for a drop/add...should i???...or is it always wise to mistrust shinannagan???...
prm...

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 20^th, 2005, 2:50am

Unless your league gives signficant weight to touchdowns over yards, I, quite literally I suppose, wouldn't waste a dime on him, prm, or the two cyber cents I used as my message icon for this post for that matter.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 20^th, 2005, 4:43am

How about this goodie,... or should say baddie, from a LOCAL source for the Broncos on "the Gridiron Newsstand"? ...

"Is Clarett worth it? (http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_2951144)"

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:35am

bgsgfan, are you still sticking with this opinion ?

Quote:

Clarrett is going to be a stud. Great vision, heart, instincts. Perfect fit for Broncos running game. Absolutely, positively will not get cut this year (ridiculuous comment).

::)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by GOLF_FREAK on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:35am

Who is the starter in Bronco land. I hear it is Anderson now, but is that right? All the talk in the world was for Bell and now he is out of it?

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:40am

Quote:

Who is the starter in Bronco land. I hear it is Anderson now, but is that right? All the talk in the world was for Bell and now he is out of it?

Yes, Anderson is supposedly the starter, but what do you expect from Mike 'AssKlown' Shanahan.

That's fine, it just means you can draft Bell in the late second, early third round. He's still well worth the risk.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by GOLF_FREAK on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:51am

Jake,

Not sure I would agree with you there totally. Yes Bell has tons of potential but why waste a third round pick on a non starter. You need to rock with your first couple of picks as everyone is getting a stud in the first couple of rounds and you would be putting yourself behind the eightball if you don't get a starter stud. I think bell winds up 5th or later. I just can't put such a high pick on a project.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by bgsgfan on Aug 20^th, 2005, 12:37pm

on 08/20/05 at 09:35:07, junkyardjake wrote:

bgsgfan, are you still sticking with this opinion ?

::)

I'll back away from it a little bit. It is no longer a ridiculous comment, however it would be ridiculous for the Broncos to cut him. I expect him to be a project. I expect him to still have some maturity issues. And I still expect him to be a stud.

You move up to draft the kid in the 3rd round because you believe he has 1st round talent, but he has "issues". You prepare yourself to deal with him if he still acts that same way.

The kid signs a contract that seems to indicate he has his head straight. [smiley=clap.gif]

Then he misses significant time for an injury that may not be as serious as he lets on. The Broncos (management, coaches, and teammates) are just waiting on any slight misstep to jump on him and get him back in line (of course).

The interesting thing is, that contract which originally seemed so rosey for the Broncos may just be the impetus behind Clarrett's over-concern with his injury. He did not receive any signing bonus or guaranteed $. It only makes sense for a player with that type of contract to be more concerned with his own well-being.

I still have no doubts over his talent, his will to compete, and his over-all character; i.e. he is not a bad kid - just someone that needs a LOT of guidance.

The most troubling thing about Clarrett's situation is that he has not found a mentor within the Broncos. We cannot underestimate the value of Cris Carter on Randy Moss - and Maurice just might need that type of older brother figure / mentor to help him succeed.

Another troubling aspect is that I do not expect Clarrett to respond well where he sees himself as an outsider. This type of situation will make him brood and fight back against everyone he sees as against him. Somehow the Broncos need to get him fighting with them instead of against them.

More than anything, Clarrett needs to get on the field in a game situation and show his passion. He doesn't even need to be successful (at first). Heck, failing miserably at first might be just what he needs... a chance to show his passion, reclaim his drive. And yeah, that comes back to the injury and everyone's frustatration.

I am very biased here. Being from northeast Ohio, back when Clarrett was in high school he was talked about quite a bit (not as much as Lebron James, but close). Then his freshman year at Ohio State! He made it look so easy, but he had an incredible passion! He threw fits when he fumbled, begged to be put back in the game, played through injuries. Then came all the off-field junk, and I kept thinking who is the bad guy here? I didn't see any villains, just a bunch of victims. Can I fault Maurice for what he is doing? I couldn't. Trust me, I wanted to... but I couldn't.

To this day, this kid is one of the people I would most want on my team. I wish I could be around him, go to battle with him or coach him. How could you not want to coach someone who has the talent and is just begging to let it loose, yet needs someone to help bring it out of him?

So the situation has come where it is no longer ridiculous that he could get cut. And that in itself is ridiculous. I hope he does get cut, and the Steelers pick him up. It may be that he needs a coach more like Bill Cowher.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Aug 20^th, 2005, 2:21pm

Quote:

I hope he does get cut, and the Steelers pick him up. It may be that he needs a coach more like Bill Cowher.

Yes, I believe a situation like this is exactly what Clarett would need if he is ever going to realize his potential. He started off badly in Denver with that incredibly stupid contract, a clear sign he still lacks the maturity to play in the pros at this point. It certainly would have been better if he came in with realistic expectations, and that would have included a receptiveness to pay his dues on special teams, something he apparently thinks is beneath him.

Clarett no doubt has a high opinion of himself, but if he really believed that he was going to beat out Bell, Anderson and Dayne as a rookie for those contract incentives to kick-in, he is clearly delusional, and someone like Bill Cowher could probably haul him back onto the Reality Express pretty quick.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Aug 20^th, 2005, 2:37pm

Quote:

Not sure I would agree with you there totally. Yes Bell has tons of potential but why waste a third round pick on a non starter. You need to rock with your first couple of picks as everyone is getting a stud in the first couple of rounds and you would be putting yourself behind the eightball if you don't get a starter stud. I think bell winds up 5th or later. I just can't put such a high pick on a project.

I think that is a fair perspective, like I said I personally believe he is worth the risk, but for you it's not worth it. That being said, I can almost guarantee that Bell won't be around in the fifth round of almost all the fantasy drafts you are involved in. There will be someone crazy enough to take Bell in the early third round, and it's very likely that alcohol will be involved.

Additionally, would it really surprise you that the Denver RB situation remains ambiguous until 12PM September 11th, and then all of a sudden you see that Tatum Bell rushed for 120 yards and 2 touchdowns 5pm that afternoon?

Then again, with Shanahan, it's also possible that he signs Tony Siragusa before kickoff and goes with him at runningback until he collapses in the 2nd quarter. (Which should still give Bell the opportunity to reach 120 yards and 2 TDs, I think). :)

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 20^th, 2005, 2:40pm

Just to shake some sense into everyone regarding the starting tailback situation,... it will be Bell's when it matters, i.e. come Week One. Shanny's just "pushing" Bell, and all of them for that matter, to get the best out of them. The bottom line is that Anderson is just too one-dimensional and aging and too good of a fullback to be the guy. Here's a great LOCAL piece off "the Gridiron Newsstand" discussing the situation and the "direction" it is headed in":

"Bell pushes Anderson for top spot (http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/broncos/)"

As for Clarett, his time, if it comes to pass, which I believe it will, is a bit way off in the future. Ron Dayne is worth keeping an eye on as well. An injury to Bell and I think they go with the younger, former Heisman-trophy-winning Dayne over the no-name-college-attending, aging, ex-marine Anderson,... with ALL due respect for said latter.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by junkyardjake on Aug 20^th, 2005, 5:52pm

Thanks for that generous dose of inaccessible link, that really clears shit up. ;D

Quote:

Anderson is just too one-dimensional and aging and too good of a fullback to be the guy.

While I totally agree with your assessment of Mike Anderson, I'm not sure that it's appropriate to use the term 'reality' and Mike Shanahan [smiley=havinablast.gif]in the same commentary. This was the guy who chose Quentin Griffin as his week 1 starter last year, then traded away his most productive runningback from last season, then proceeded to waste a 3rd round pick on a 4.9- 40-time-running-self-absorbed-groin-injury-faking-delusions-of grandeur-mental-misfit.
[smiley=dunce.gif]

I bet Shanahan's wife hates to go shoe shopping with him, because he sure seems like he's unable to make a decision.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by prm on Aug 20^th, 2005, 6:11pm

:-[ :-[...ok - i'll take that all as a resounding NO!!!...
i'll buy a couple of oilcans (fosters) [smiley=ragin.gif]- yes i know it's supposed to be piss in australia - with my $5 and hang with arrington & jacobs...thanks, [smiley=thumbsup.gif]
prm...

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 20^th, 2005, 6:30pm

prm, I did however just take him in our mock just a bit ago:

http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/cgi-bin/theGridiron/YaBB.cgi?board=56;action=display;num=1123038735;start=100.

[smiley=whistle.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by prm on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:39pm

:o - i know it's only a pre-season game...but somebody'd better tell mike he's not the guy...he's kicken' ass right about now - 8-)
prm...

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:46pm

Yeah, but they're playing the rebuilding 9ers at home (against the 9er O line). It's kind of like the old joke about Hemmingway's writing - "To die, in the rain, at night...."

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 20^th, 2005, 9:46pm

He is ultimately probably worth a mid-to-mid-late round flyer.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Aug 20^th, 2005, 10:11pm

That would be the 9er D line... ;)

on 08/20/05 at 21:46:24, Callie wrote:

Yeah, but they're playing the rebuilding 9ers at home (against the 9er O line). It's kind of like the old joke about Hemmingway's writing - "To die, in the rain, at night...."

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 20^th, 2005, 10:31pm

No. I meant that the Broncs do not have to worry about the score. They can try anything. ;D

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by prm on Aug 21^st, 2005, 9:39am

http://msn.foxsports.com/other/story/4693404
... :o yikes, that was a scary choice of words, callie...how strange was that???
prm

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by prm on Aug 21^st, 2005, 9:43am

::)...checkin' out the box scores this morning...somebody'd better tell ron dayne he's NOT the guy...ha,

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 24^th, 2005, 2:44pm

Steggie's Broncs grabbed SS Marques Anderson about two minutes after the Raiders cut him:

" The Denver Broncos on Tuesday claimed safety Marques (MAR-kus) Anderson off waivers, Head Coach Mike Shanahan announced. Anderson was waived by Oakland on Monday."

http://www.denverbroncos.com/page.php?id=338&storyID=4483

Anderson can hit, but he isn't great at covering. Raider SS Derrick Gibson can do both, and that's why the Raiders made him their starter at the position. Both teams need work in the secondary, but unless Anderson plays better as a Bronco than he did as a Raider, Anderson will be there only for depth and as the usual ex-Raider Shanny grabs to pick his brains.

Thoughts?

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 25^th, 2005, 1:01am

This, from "The REAL Feed", pretty much led to that...

Broncos lose second safety in two weeks as Browner goes on injured reserve (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/wires/08/24/2020.ap.fbn.broncos.browner.0255/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (24.08.2005 22:36)

Ultimately, we are talking about reserves here. Barring injury at least, IDP-wise, who cares? Read, total non-factor. Again, barring injury, team defense-wise, little to no fantasy import.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 25^th, 2005, 9:51am

on 08/25/05 at 01:01:53, StegRock wrote:

In the long-run, this is probably a good thing. Browner was considered a possible first-round pick by some scouts at one point after declaring. (He declared following his redshirt sophomore season at Oregon St.) This way he gets to stay with the team and will be able to practice once his break heals and mature and grow into the position.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 25^th, 2005, 10:23pm

On ESPN tonight during the half-time show Mort said that Clarett may have a hard time making the team. Here's are article discussing that from "The REAL Feed":

NFL 2005: Early injury hampers Clarett's chances (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/wires/08/25/2020.ap.fbn.broncos.impact.rookies.clarett.adv27.0620/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (25.08.2005 18:33)

Hampers his chances of making the team that is...

Boy, did DOLFAN help me avoid a BIG mistake in the GBRFL draft (http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/cgi-bin/theGridiron/YaBB.cgi?board=56;action=display;num=1122180006) by making it himself.

In any event, this does not come as a big surprise at this point with how Anderson, Bell and Dayne have looked, i.e. like an awesome stable of backs. Looks like I might have been wrong about this guy. :-/

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 26^th, 2005, 9:14pm

"Dayne in, Clarett likely out in Denver"

http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/8775236

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 27^th, 2005, 5:31am

on 08/26/05 at 21:14:44, Callie wrote:

"Dayne in, Clarett likely out in Denver"

http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/8775236

While this article was a great, INFORMATIVE read, tendentious, "sensational" inaccuracies like the following I hate: "One of the ironies of the situation is that Clarett got beat out for a job by another former Big 10 back that was written off in New York the way Clarett is now being written off in Denver." The two situations are actually VERY different. New York was disappointed with Dayne; Denver has been disappointed by Clarett. That's where the comparison ends (and even the prepositions, the latter one indicating a bit more force and directness, are different).

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 29^th, 2005, 2:44pm

From off "the Gridiron Newsstand":

"Agent: Clarett will be cut by Broncos (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/football/nfl/specials/preview/2005/08/28/clarett.cut.ap/index.html)"

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 30^th, 2005, 12:18am

... And, the OFFICIAL and LOCAl confirmation from off "the Gridiron Newsstand":

"No Room at the Inn (http://www.denverbroncos.com/page.php?id=334&storyID=4587)"

"Clarett's bid cut short (http://denverpost.com/sports/ci_2981853)"

"It's a cut and run (http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/broncos/article/0,1299,DRMN_17_4038128,00.html)"

"Clarett experiment a bust (http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/broncos/article/0,1713,BDC_2453_4038113,00.html)"

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 31^st, 2005, 6:47pm

New FF-specific Broncos report up. To check it out, [smiley=checkin.gif] go to:

http://ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm.

The report discusses my take on Denver's RB sitch. [smiley=doseofreality.gif]

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Sep 3^rd, 2005, 10:06pm

Broncos make final cuts... Biggest surprise, I think,... RB Quentin Griffin was cut... Here's the word about the Broncos' cuts from various sources, including OFFICIAL and LOCAL ones, available on "the Gridiron Newsstand":

"Broncos Get Down to 53 (http://www.denverbroncos.com/page.php?id=334&storyID=4604)"

"Broncos cut some familiar faces (http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/broncos/article/0,1299,DRMN_17_4053650,00.html)"

Specifically regarding Jerry Rice's making the team, but considering retirement -
"Rice to take couple of days to make decision (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2151112)"

Also, I have some original content for yous. A NEW "FF-specific Broncos Report" specifically addressing the fantasy slant on Griffin's being cut and Rice's situation is up... for you all's enjoyment: [smiley=lickinmychops.gif]

http://www.ffpro.com/teamreports/broncos/broncos-footballinfoframes.htm.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Sep 4^th, 2005, 10:54pm

Currently topping "The REAL Feed":

All-time leading receiver Rice mulls retirement (http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/4839262?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5)
FOXSports.com :: NFL (04.09.2005 17:27)
Jerry Rice was in San Francisco on Sunday, contemplating retirement.

Rice's agent, Jim Steiner, said the NFL's all-time leading receiver probably would make a decision before the Denver Broncos return to practice Monday.

Rice signed with Denver this summer in hopes of finishing his career as a...

The fact that he left town dismays me, makes me think he is leaning toward packing it in. However, I must admit, a demotion from #3 "all the way" to #4 hastening his decision like this, to me, indicates that maybe he really doesn't want to play anymore. And, in that case, he's better off hanging it up. :-/

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Sep 5^th, 2005, 11:22pm

Well, my hunch above was unfortunately correct... The end of an era... From "The REAL Feed":

Jerry Rice Retires From Footbal (http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=football&id=3415768)
KGO: Sports (05.09.2005 19:18)
Unwilling to be a bit player with the Broncos, Jerry Rice retired Monday, closing a 20-year career for the most productive receiver in NFL history.

He did say during his retirement speech that even though he understood the role Shanahan had laid out for him as the #4 wideout, he felt that he could bring more to the team on the field. He just might turn up somewhere this season. Don't be surprised if he does. He didn't go through his offseason regimen for nothing and he may (come to his senses, in my opinion, and) see that he still can help a team get over the hump this year.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Sep 5^th, 2005, 11:26pm

I didn't see it, but I heard that Rice did an interview on NFL Network tonight in which he said that he was interested in a broadcasting job.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Sep 5^th, 2005, 11:31pm

on 09/05/05 at 23:26:07, Callie wrote:

I didn't see it, but I heard that Rice did an interview on NFL Network tonight in which he said that he was interested in a broadcasting job.

I just think he is "scrambling" and emotionally spent right now. That seems to be the en vogue thing to say anymore.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Sep 5^th, 2005, 11:34pm

on 09/05/05 at 23:31:30, StegRock wrote:

I just think he is "scrambling" and emotionally spent right now. That seems to be the en vogue thing to say anymore.

Jerry Rice? One of the most mature (mentally) guys to ever play the game? He doesn't have to scramble emotionally. It was more like a job interview, and I would love to watch him as a commentator.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Sep 6^th, 2005, 1:43am

Dude... ette, he was crying during his speech.

Title: Re: Broncos Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Sep 6^th, 2005, 9:10am

While he's had an extraordinary career, a player of his caliber is nothing more than ordinary now. It was a wise decision to hang up the cleats and hopefully they'll remain hanging.