AFC West: Britton Colquitt
Madden cover chase: Then there were none
April, 4, 2012
Apr 4
1:35
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The AFC West Madden cover dream is over for another year.
In the round of 16, Carolina quarterback Cam Newton whipped San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. Newton moves to the Elite 8 of the Madden cover competition, which is based on an ESPN SportsNation vote. Gates was the final AFC West representative remaining in the competition.
Until next year.
In other AFC West news:
ESPN’s uniform expert reviews all of the team’s uniform changes. There were very little changes for the four AFC West teams. Kansas City owner Clark Hunt talked about the importance of keeping the team’s tradition with the new uniform deal with Nike.
The Chiefs have re-signed defensive back Travis Daniels. He is a backup.
Here’s more talk that the Raiders are working on a long-term deal with franchised safety Tyvon Branch. The Raiders have long indicated that is a goal this offseason. It would give the team some cap relief.
In a procedural deal, the Broncos re-signed exclusive rights free agent punter Britton Colquitt. He wasn’t going anywhere, anyway.
UPDATE: I just talked to someone in the know in the Dave Tollefson talks. He has yet to make his decision and he is expected to visit the Titans on Thursday as planned. But the Raiders are considered strong contenders for the Bay Area native and former Oakland practice squader. He would provide strong defensive-line depth.
In the round of 16, Carolina quarterback Cam Newton whipped San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. Newton moves to the Elite 8 of the Madden cover competition, which is based on an ESPN SportsNation vote. Gates was the final AFC West representative remaining in the competition.
Until next year.
In other AFC West news:
ESPN’s uniform expert reviews all of the team’s uniform changes. There were very little changes for the four AFC West teams. Kansas City owner Clark Hunt talked about the importance of keeping the team’s tradition with the new uniform deal with Nike.
The Chiefs have re-signed defensive back Travis Daniels. He is a backup.
Here’s more talk that the Raiders are working on a long-term deal with franchised safety Tyvon Branch. The Raiders have long indicated that is a goal this offseason. It would give the team some cap relief.
In a procedural deal, the Broncos re-signed exclusive rights free agent punter Britton Colquitt. He wasn’t going anywhere, anyway.
UPDATE: I just talked to someone in the know in the Dave Tollefson talks. He has yet to make his decision and he is expected to visit the Titans on Thursday as planned. But the Raiders are considered strong contenders for the Bay Area native and former Oakland practice squader. He would provide strong defensive-line depth.
» AFC Free-Agency Primer: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South
Free agency begins Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET
Denver Broncos
Key free agents: K Matt Prater (franchised), DT Brodrick Bunkley, S Brian Dawkins, TE Daniel Fells, FB Spencer Larsen, WR Eddie Royal, QB Brady Quinn, DT Marcus Thomas, LB Wesley Woodyard, P Britton Colquitt (restricted).
Where they stand: The Broncos will have plenty of salary-cap room. For a team that went from 4-12 with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft to winning the AFC West and a playoff game in John Fox’s first season as coach, the Broncos are in position to improve through free agency. With Prater franchised, the team’s only priority unrestricted free agent is Bunkley.
What to expect: Don’t expect a huge spending spree. The Broncos are cash conscious and I think the franchise is still recovering from some undisciplined spending during the Mike Shanahan era that ended in 2008. We will see the Broncos try to add several pieces at lower prices. Denver could address needs at safety, running back, receiver, tight end, linebacker and quarterback. Keep an eye on players such as Washington safety LaRon Landry, Seattle tight end John Carlson, quarterbacks Chad Henne (Miami), Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh) or Josh Johnson (Tampa), running backs Michael Bush (Oakland) and Mike Tolbert (San Diego), and defensive lineman Jonathan Fanene Cincinnati.
Kansas City Chiefs
Key free agents: WR Dwayne Bowe (franchised), CB Brandon Carr, QB Kyle Orton, RB Jackie Battle, LB Jovan Belcher, S Jon McGraw, C Casey Wiegmann, RB Thomas Jones, DE Wallace Gilberry, DT Kelly Gregg
Where they stand: The Chiefs are in great shape on cap space even after signing cornerback Stanford Routt and franchising Bowe. They have already done a nice job in free agency with these two moves and have a good, young roster. Kansas City can become a serious playoff contender with the right moves. It is likely Carr will leave in free agency, but the Chiefs should be able to re-sign most of their other free agents if they wish.
What to expect: I’m not sure we will see the Chiefs break the bank for any of the super-hot free agents, but I expect them to do some significant shopping. I think we could see Kansas City look for help at nose tackle, linebacker, safety, tackle, running back and quarterback. Of course, the intrigue could start if the team gets in on the Peyton Manning sweepstakes. But they could also look at several other quarterbacks, including Orton, Henne, Jason Campbell (Oakland) or even Quinn. They could also be in the mix for Miami nose tackle Paul Soliai, Saints guard Carl Nicks and running backs BenJarvus Green-Ellis (New England), Bush and Tolbert.
Oakland Raiders
Key free agents: S Tyvon Branch (franchised), RB Michael Bush, QB Jason Campbell, LB Quentin Groves, C Samson Satele, WR Chaz Schilens, DE Trevor Scott, FB Marcel Reece (restricted).
Where they stand: The Raiders are one of the few teams that must get under the salary cap. Oakland coach Dennis Allen recently acknowledged the team has work to do. The Raiders have some contracts that can be easily restructured, but they also may have to cut some players, particularly on defense. Linebacker Kamerion Wimbley and defensive tackle John Henderson are among the top candidates.
What to expect: The Raiders likely face some limitations once they get under the cap, but they can add two or three starting-quality players under the right circumstances. Their primary needs are on defense, starting at cornerback and linebacker. The offensive line could be upgraded as well. I think they can be in on the second wave of cornerbacks. A player to watch is New Orleans cornerback Tracy Porter, who previously played for Allen. There are some solid second-tier cornerbacks Oakland could be interested in other than Porter. There will be some good players available on both sides of the ball after the initial wave of free agency for short-term deals. Expect the Raiders to do some bargain picking during that time. I think Oakland will be interested in signing several of its free agents, but I expect Bush and Campbell will leave.
San Diego Chargers
Key free agents: WR Vincent Jackson, C Nick Hardwick, RB Tolbert, DT Antonio Garay, OT Jared Gaither, FB Jacob Hester.
Where they stand: The Chargers will be in decent shape and they are getting even better after cutting Luis Castillo, the retirement of guard Kris Dielman and the expected release of tackle Marcus McNeill. But San Diego still has a lot of work to do. They have the most priority free agents of any team in the division. Signing Jackson, Hardwick, Gaither, Tolbert and Garay will be a challenge.
What to expect: The Chargers will likely stick to their usual plan and concentrate first on their own free agents. But they also have other needs and they will likely spend more in free agency than they have done before under general manager A.J. Smith. I get the sense from some agents that the Chargers may spend wildy in an attempt to win back the fan base’s trust after the unpopular contract extensions for Smith and coach Norv Turner. The pair were brought back even after missing the playoffs for a second consecutive season. I also get the sense from inside the organization, however, that the Chargers will not act out of desperation. Look for the team to consider pass-rushers, nose tackles, safeties and offensive linemen if Hardwick and Gaither aren’t brought back. A receiver will also become a major need if Jackson goes. The Colts' Reggie Wayne could be an option in that case. A running back such as Cadillac Williams (St. Louis) reportedly will be in the mix if Tolbert walks. Soliai could interest the team as well. Chicago special teams ace Corey Graham may also be a target. If the Chargers want to make a huge splash, they could try to get in on Houston pass-rusher Mario Williams, who is widely considered the best player on the market.
Free agency begins Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET
Denver Broncos
Key free agents: K Matt Prater (franchised), DT Brodrick Bunkley, S Brian Dawkins, TE Daniel Fells, FB Spencer Larsen, WR Eddie Royal, QB Brady Quinn, DT Marcus Thomas, LB Wesley Woodyard, P Britton Colquitt (restricted).
Where they stand: The Broncos will have plenty of salary-cap room. For a team that went from 4-12 with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft to winning the AFC West and a playoff game in John Fox’s first season as coach, the Broncos are in position to improve through free agency. With Prater franchised, the team’s only priority unrestricted free agent is Bunkley.
What to expect: Don’t expect a huge spending spree. The Broncos are cash conscious and I think the franchise is still recovering from some undisciplined spending during the Mike Shanahan era that ended in 2008. We will see the Broncos try to add several pieces at lower prices. Denver could address needs at safety, running back, receiver, tight end, linebacker and quarterback. Keep an eye on players such as Washington safety LaRon Landry, Seattle tight end John Carlson, quarterbacks Chad Henne (Miami), Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh) or Josh Johnson (Tampa), running backs Michael Bush (Oakland) and Mike Tolbert (San Diego), and defensive lineman Jonathan Fanene Cincinnati.
Kansas City Chiefs
Key free agents: WR Dwayne Bowe (franchised), CB Brandon Carr, QB Kyle Orton, RB Jackie Battle, LB Jovan Belcher, S Jon McGraw, C Casey Wiegmann, RB Thomas Jones, DE Wallace Gilberry, DT Kelly Gregg
Where they stand: The Chiefs are in great shape on cap space even after signing cornerback Stanford Routt and franchising Bowe. They have already done a nice job in free agency with these two moves and have a good, young roster. Kansas City can become a serious playoff contender with the right moves. It is likely Carr will leave in free agency, but the Chiefs should be able to re-sign most of their other free agents if they wish.
What to expect: I’m not sure we will see the Chiefs break the bank for any of the super-hot free agents, but I expect them to do some significant shopping. I think we could see Kansas City look for help at nose tackle, linebacker, safety, tackle, running back and quarterback. Of course, the intrigue could start if the team gets in on the Peyton Manning sweepstakes. But they could also look at several other quarterbacks, including Orton, Henne, Jason Campbell (Oakland) or even Quinn. They could also be in the mix for Miami nose tackle Paul Soliai, Saints guard Carl Nicks and running backs BenJarvus Green-Ellis (New England), Bush and Tolbert.
Oakland Raiders
Key free agents: S Tyvon Branch (franchised), RB Michael Bush, QB Jason Campbell, LB Quentin Groves, C Samson Satele, WR Chaz Schilens, DE Trevor Scott, FB Marcel Reece (restricted).
Where they stand: The Raiders are one of the few teams that must get under the salary cap. Oakland coach Dennis Allen recently acknowledged the team has work to do. The Raiders have some contracts that can be easily restructured, but they also may have to cut some players, particularly on defense. Linebacker Kamerion Wimbley and defensive tackle John Henderson are among the top candidates.
What to expect: The Raiders likely face some limitations once they get under the cap, but they can add two or three starting-quality players under the right circumstances. Their primary needs are on defense, starting at cornerback and linebacker. The offensive line could be upgraded as well. I think they can be in on the second wave of cornerbacks. A player to watch is New Orleans cornerback Tracy Porter, who previously played for Allen. There are some solid second-tier cornerbacks Oakland could be interested in other than Porter. There will be some good players available on both sides of the ball after the initial wave of free agency for short-term deals. Expect the Raiders to do some bargain picking during that time. I think Oakland will be interested in signing several of its free agents, but I expect Bush and Campbell will leave.
San Diego Chargers
Key free agents: WR Vincent Jackson, C Nick Hardwick, RB Tolbert, DT Antonio Garay, OT Jared Gaither, FB Jacob Hester.
Where they stand: The Chargers will be in decent shape and they are getting even better after cutting Luis Castillo, the retirement of guard Kris Dielman and the expected release of tackle Marcus McNeill. But San Diego still has a lot of work to do. They have the most priority free agents of any team in the division. Signing Jackson, Hardwick, Gaither, Tolbert and Garay will be a challenge.
What to expect: The Chargers will likely stick to their usual plan and concentrate first on their own free agents. But they also have other needs and they will likely spend more in free agency than they have done before under general manager A.J. Smith. I get the sense from some agents that the Chargers may spend wildy in an attempt to win back the fan base’s trust after the unpopular contract extensions for Smith and coach Norv Turner. The pair were brought back even after missing the playoffs for a second consecutive season. I also get the sense from inside the organization, however, that the Chargers will not act out of desperation. Look for the team to consider pass-rushers, nose tackles, safeties and offensive linemen if Hardwick and Gaither aren’t brought back. A receiver will also become a major need if Jackson goes. The Colts' Reggie Wayne could be an option in that case. A running back such as Cadillac Williams (St. Louis) reportedly will be in the mix if Tolbert walks. Soliai could interest the team as well. Chicago special teams ace Corey Graham may also be a target. If the Chargers want to make a huge splash, they could try to get in on Houston pass-rusher Mario Williams, who is widely considered the best player on the market.
The Pro Bowl teams will be announced Tuesday. Here's a look at some of the candidates for each team in the division:
Denver Broncos:
Players: Champ Bailey (cornerback), Brodrick Bunkley (defensive tackle), Ryan Clady (tackle), Britton Colquitt (punter), Chris Kuper (guard), Willis McGahee (running back), Von Miller (linebacker), Matt Prater (kicker).
Best bets: Bailey, Miller.
Kansas City Chiefs:
Players: Dwayne Bowe (receiver), Brandon Flowers (cornerback), Tamba Hali (linebacker), Derrick Johnson (linebacker), Casey Wiegmann (center).
Best bets: Bowe, Hali, Johnson.
Oakland Raiders:
Players: Tyvon Branch (safety), Michael Bush (running back), Sebastian Janikowski (kicker), Shane Lechler (punter), Marcel Reece (fullback), Richard Seymour (defensive lineman), Kamerion Wimbley (linebacker), Stefen Wisniewski (guard).
Best bets: Janikowski, Lechler, Seymour
San Diego Chargers:
Players: Antwan Barnes (linebacker), Antonio Gates (tight end), Nick Hardwick (center), Vincent Jackson (receiver), Ryan Mathews (running back), Philip Rivers (quarterback), Eric Weddle (safety).
Best bets: Gates, Jackson, Weddle.
Denver Broncos:
Players: Champ Bailey (cornerback), Brodrick Bunkley (defensive tackle), Ryan Clady (tackle), Britton Colquitt (punter), Chris Kuper (guard), Willis McGahee (running back), Von Miller (linebacker), Matt Prater (kicker).
Best bets: Bailey, Miller.
Kansas City Chiefs:
Players: Dwayne Bowe (receiver), Brandon Flowers (cornerback), Tamba Hali (linebacker), Derrick Johnson (linebacker), Casey Wiegmann (center).
Best bets: Bowe, Hali, Johnson.
Oakland Raiders:
Players: Tyvon Branch (safety), Michael Bush (running back), Sebastian Janikowski (kicker), Shane Lechler (punter), Marcel Reece (fullback), Richard Seymour (defensive lineman), Kamerion Wimbley (linebacker), Stefen Wisniewski (guard).
Best bets: Janikowski, Lechler, Seymour
San Diego Chargers:
Players: Antwan Barnes (linebacker), Antonio Gates (tight end), Nick Hardwick (center), Vincent Jackson (receiver), Ryan Mathews (running back), Philip Rivers (quarterback), Eric Weddle (safety).
Best bets: Gates, Jackson, Weddle.
AFC West Pro Bowl voting update
December, 21, 2011
12/21/11
5:30
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The NFL has released the final results of the fan portion of the Pro Bowl voting process. The fan vote makes up a third of the process along with players and coaches votes.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who finished in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
Second place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Defensive end
Third place: Elvis Dumervil, Denver
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Fifth place: Tommy Kelly, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Fourth place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Fourth place: Matt Prater, Denver
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Fourth place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who finished in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
Second place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Defensive end
Third place: Elvis Dumervil, Denver
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Fifth place: Tommy Kelly, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Fourth place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Fourth place: Matt Prater, Denver
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Fourth place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
Weekend mail call:
Dan Carlton from Ojai, CA. wants to know if the Chargers will re-sign receiver Vincent Jackson.
Bill Williamson: It all depends on who is running the team. If general manager A.J. Smith is fired, it will be up to a new regime. If Smith sticks around, I think he still may not be convinced to give Jackson a long-term deal. I think the best bet is that Jackson will be given the franchise tag, by whoever is making the decisions in San Diego.
John Q. from Johnstown, Co. wants to know if Denver punter Britton Colquitt has a chance to make the Pro Bowl.
BW: Colquitt is having a fantastic season and he has the look of a punter who will be successful for several years. He had a strong leg and he is a good situational punter. But the truth is, as long as Shane Lechler is punting for the Raiders, no one else should make the Pro Bowl. Still, Colquitt is a real gamer.
Eli from Pasadena, Ca. wants to know if Chargers’ safety Eric Weddle should make the Pro Bowl.
BW: I think he has a shot to make it. He is a ball hawk and he has seven interceptions. I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Weddle made the Pro Bowl.
Dan Carlton from Ojai, CA. wants to know if the Chargers will re-sign receiver Vincent Jackson.
Bill Williamson: It all depends on who is running the team. If general manager A.J. Smith is fired, it will be up to a new regime. If Smith sticks around, I think he still may not be convinced to give Jackson a long-term deal. I think the best bet is that Jackson will be given the franchise tag, by whoever is making the decisions in San Diego.
John Q. from Johnstown, Co. wants to know if Denver punter Britton Colquitt has a chance to make the Pro Bowl.
BW: Colquitt is having a fantastic season and he has the look of a punter who will be successful for several years. He had a strong leg and he is a good situational punter. But the truth is, as long as Shane Lechler is punting for the Raiders, no one else should make the Pro Bowl. Still, Colquitt is a real gamer.
Eli from Pasadena, Ca. wants to know if Chargers’ safety Eric Weddle should make the Pro Bowl.
BW: I think he has a shot to make it. He is a ball hawk and he has seven interceptions. I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Weddle made the Pro Bowl.
AFC West Pro Bowl voting update
December, 16, 2011
12/16/11
4:15
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The NFL has released an update on the fan portion of the Pro Bowl voting process. The fan vote makes up a third of the process along with players and coaches votes.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who are currently in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
First place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Fifth place: Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Guard
Fifth place: Stefen Wisniewski, Oakland
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Fourth place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Third place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who are currently in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
First place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Fifth place: Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Guard
Fifth place: Stefen Wisniewski, Oakland
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Fourth place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Third place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
Five things to watch: Broncos-Jets
November, 17, 2011
11/17/11
11:00
AM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The Denver Broncos have a key game against the visiting New York Jets on Thursday night. Denver has won three out of the past four games under new quarterback Tim Tebow. The Broncos have gone from a serious contender to win the Andrew Luck sweepstakes to a 4-5 team that is one game off the pace in the AFC West. Let’s look at what Denver must do against the 5-4 Jets, who are 1-4 in the past five road games in the regular season:
Keep your options open: Perhaps the Broncos are bringing the 1950s back, but as long as they continue to win with the option offense, it will continue to be used. Denver has been using the option (it even broke out the triple option Sunday at Kansas City) well under Tebow. It will be challenged Thursday night because New York coach Rex Ryan is known as a creative defensive coach. Still, Denver will give Ryan plenty of chances to stop it. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Broncos gained 95 yards on 16 rushes at Kansas City. Tebow kept the ball four times for 31 yards while using the option. Tebow ran the ball nine times and passed it just eight times at Kansas City. According to Elias, Tebow became the first quarterback with more rushes than passes in a game in which the quarterback threw every pass for his team since 1974 when Buffalo’s Joe Ferguson threw twice and ran 10 times in a game that was affected by high winds. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Tebow dropped back to pass on 14.3 percent of the Broncos’ plays at Kansas City. It’s the lowest percentage of drop backs by a team in a game since the start of 2008. Don’t expect Denver to suddenly change course on a short week and have Tebow unleash 40 passes. The option offense should continue.
Keep on running: Tebow’s presence has made Denver a great running offense. It his averaging more than 200 yards on the ground in the past five games and has led the NFL in rushing in that time span. For the season, Denver is second in the NFL in rushing, averaging 158.2 yards per game. The presence of Tebow has enhanced the Broncos’ running backs. Willis McGahee, who is enjoying a career resurgence at the age of 30 and in his first season in Denver, had 640 yards this season. He suffered a hamstring injury at Kansas City. But the Broncos hope he can be a factor. With Knowshon Moreno out for the year with a torn ACL, new backup Lance Ball will be given a chance to continue to impress. He had 96 yards on 30 carries against the Chiefs. Expect the Broncos to try to ram the ball down the Jets’ throats. The Jets are giving up 116 yards on the ground per game, which is 15th in the NFL.
Doing it Fox’s way: This game will give the Broncos a chance to show a national audience they are improved under first year John Fox. He deserves a lot of credit for this turnaround. The Broncos are starting to play just the way Fox likes -- by running the ball and by stopping the run on defense. Denver’s ownership has to be thrilled with the work Fox is doing with this young roster that is still very much rebuilding.
Hit Mark Sanchez: The Broncos have become a strong pass-rushing team in recent games with Elvis Dumervil finally becoming healthy. Dumervil and rookie Von Miller are a nasty pass-rushing duo. Denver had four sacks and constantly harassed Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel (who suffered a serious hand injury in the game) Sunday. Watch for the Broncos to try to unleash Dumervil and Miller -- who has eight sacks and who is a legitimate defensive rookie of the year candidate -- on Sanchez.
Secret weapon: Denver punter Britton Colquitt has become a strong weapon for the Broncos in his second full season with the team. He has become particularly solid in pinning opponents inside their own 20-yard line. He pinned the Chiefs between their own 7- and 15-yard line four times in Week 10. Putting New York in poor field position will be critical in this game.
Keep your options open: Perhaps the Broncos are bringing the 1950s back, but as long as they continue to win with the option offense, it will continue to be used. Denver has been using the option (it even broke out the triple option Sunday at Kansas City) well under Tebow. It will be challenged Thursday night because New York coach Rex Ryan is known as a creative defensive coach. Still, Denver will give Ryan plenty of chances to stop it. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Broncos gained 95 yards on 16 rushes at Kansas City. Tebow kept the ball four times for 31 yards while using the option. Tebow ran the ball nine times and passed it just eight times at Kansas City. According to Elias, Tebow became the first quarterback with more rushes than passes in a game in which the quarterback threw every pass for his team since 1974 when Buffalo’s Joe Ferguson threw twice and ran 10 times in a game that was affected by high winds. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Tebow dropped back to pass on 14.3 percent of the Broncos’ plays at Kansas City. It’s the lowest percentage of drop backs by a team in a game since the start of 2008. Don’t expect Denver to suddenly change course on a short week and have Tebow unleash 40 passes. The option offense should continue.
Keep on running: Tebow’s presence has made Denver a great running offense. It his averaging more than 200 yards on the ground in the past five games and has led the NFL in rushing in that time span. For the season, Denver is second in the NFL in rushing, averaging 158.2 yards per game. The presence of Tebow has enhanced the Broncos’ running backs. Willis McGahee, who is enjoying a career resurgence at the age of 30 and in his first season in Denver, had 640 yards this season. He suffered a hamstring injury at Kansas City. But the Broncos hope he can be a factor. With Knowshon Moreno out for the year with a torn ACL, new backup Lance Ball will be given a chance to continue to impress. He had 96 yards on 30 carries against the Chiefs. Expect the Broncos to try to ram the ball down the Jets’ throats. The Jets are giving up 116 yards on the ground per game, which is 15th in the NFL.
Doing it Fox’s way: This game will give the Broncos a chance to show a national audience they are improved under first year John Fox. He deserves a lot of credit for this turnaround. The Broncos are starting to play just the way Fox likes -- by running the ball and by stopping the run on defense. Denver’s ownership has to be thrilled with the work Fox is doing with this young roster that is still very much rebuilding.
Hit Mark Sanchez: The Broncos have become a strong pass-rushing team in recent games with Elvis Dumervil finally becoming healthy. Dumervil and rookie Von Miller are a nasty pass-rushing duo. Denver had four sacks and constantly harassed Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel (who suffered a serious hand injury in the game) Sunday. Watch for the Broncos to try to unleash Dumervil and Miller -- who has eight sacks and who is a legitimate defensive rookie of the year candidate -- on Sanchez.
Secret weapon: Denver punter Britton Colquitt has become a strong weapon for the Broncos in his second full season with the team. He has become particularly solid in pinning opponents inside their own 20-yard line. He pinned the Chiefs between their own 7- and 15-yard line four times in Week 10. Putting New York in poor field position will be critical in this game.
Ranking the AFC West kicking specialists
July, 11, 2011
7/11/11
10:00
AM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
This is the ninth in our series of position-by-position rankings. It is a little different this season because we’re ranking the players before free agency starts and before rosters are set. We will adjust accordingly as we go along, but we don’t expect many changes at this spot. On to a terrific group of punters and kickers:
1. Shane Lechler, Oakland: He is the premier punter in the game. His leg is registered-weapon material.
2. Mike Scifres, San Diego: His talent is close to Lechler’s. This is the best 1-2 punter division punch in football.
3. Dustin Colquitt, Kansas City: His talent is close to Lechler’s and Scifres’. This is the best 1-2-3 punter division punch in football.
4. Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland: Janikowski is the best placekicker in this division. He missed eight field-goal attempts last season, but he is a fine weapon for Oakland.
5. Matt Prater, Denver: This is one of the better young kickers in football. He is terrific on kickoffs, and he missed just two field-goal attempts last season.
6. Nate Kaeding, San Diego: Kaeding is a strong kicker. He was injured a lot last season and has struggled in critical situations, but, overall, he is a plus kicker.
7. Ryan Succop, Kansas City: He has a chance to be become a very good kicker. He has a strong leg.
8. Britton Colquitt, Denver: Dustin’s little brother punted well in his first full NFL season. He appears to be a keeper, and he rounds out a fine group of kicking specialists.
1. Shane Lechler, Oakland: He is the premier punter in the game. His leg is registered-weapon material.
2. Mike Scifres, San Diego: His talent is close to Lechler’s. This is the best 1-2 punter division punch in football.
3. Dustin Colquitt, Kansas City: His talent is close to Lechler’s and Scifres’. This is the best 1-2-3 punter division punch in football.
4. Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland: Janikowski is the best placekicker in this division. He missed eight field-goal attempts last season, but he is a fine weapon for Oakland.
5. Matt Prater, Denver: This is one of the better young kickers in football. He is terrific on kickoffs, and he missed just two field-goal attempts last season.
6. Nate Kaeding, San Diego: Kaeding is a strong kicker. He was injured a lot last season and has struggled in critical situations, but, overall, he is a plus kicker.
7. Ryan Succop, Kansas City: He has a chance to be become a very good kicker. He has a strong leg.
8. Britton Colquitt, Denver: Dustin’s little brother punted well in his first full NFL season. He appears to be a keeper, and he rounds out a fine group of kicking specialists.
» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 10:
Chiefs return to happy place: The Kansas City Chiefs are enjoying a revival in 2010. They are 5-3 at the midway point and are leading the AFC West by a half game heading into their game at Denver on Sunday. Some in the Kansas City organization believe the Chiefs’ turnaround started in Denver in the final game of last season when the Chiefs hammered the Broncos, 44-24. Denver was still in the playoff hunt at the time. Kansas City running back Jamaal Charles had 259 yards as the Chiefs showed they could be a team to reckon with in 2010.
Can McDaniels beat an AFC West team at home? Second-year Denver coach Josh McDaniels is feeling the heat. The Broncos, 2-6, are 4-14 since the Broncos started 6-0 under McDaniels last season. What is also alarming is Denver is 0-4 against AFC West opponents at home under McDaniels, including a 59-14 loss to Oakland. If the Chiefs knock around the Broncos on Sunday, McDaniels will be hearing even more boos than he did after the Oakland debacle.
Battle of the Colquitts: During training camp, as he was vying to become Denver’s punter, Britton Colquitt said he was looking forward to the opportunity to play the Chiefs. Kansas City’s punter is his older brother, Dustin Colquitt. The brothers are sons of former NFL punter Craig Colquitt. Britton Colquitt said it was his father’s dream to have his sons punt on the same NFL field. Sunday, it will become true.
Can the Broncos score early? One of the Broncos’ biggest problems in 2010 is that they have started slowly and fallen behind quickly. Denver has scored just seven points in the first quarter this season. The key to winning in the NFL is to start fast. Denver has not been able to overcome their slow starts. If the Broncos are going to upset the Chiefs, they need to strike fast.
The return of Eddie Royal: One of the bright spots for Denver this season is the play of third-season receiver Royal. He flourished as a rookie under Denver coach Mike Shanahan in 2008. He had 91 catches. Yet, in 2009 Royal didn’t fit well in McDaniels’ offense. He had just 37 catches for 345 yards. Through eight games this season, Royal has 38 catches for 427 yards. Denver has a lot of problems, but it is a good sign that Royal is a productive player again.
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 10:
Chiefs return to happy place: The Kansas City Chiefs are enjoying a revival in 2010. They are 5-3 at the midway point and are leading the AFC West by a half game heading into their game at Denver on Sunday. Some in the Kansas City organization believe the Chiefs’ turnaround started in Denver in the final game of last season when the Chiefs hammered the Broncos, 44-24. Denver was still in the playoff hunt at the time. Kansas City running back Jamaal Charles had 259 yards as the Chiefs showed they could be a team to reckon with in 2010.
[+] Enlarge
Kyle Terada/US PresswireJosh McDaniels has yet to defeat an AFC West team at home.
Kyle Terada/US PresswireJosh McDaniels has yet to defeat an AFC West team at home.Battle of the Colquitts: During training camp, as he was vying to become Denver’s punter, Britton Colquitt said he was looking forward to the opportunity to play the Chiefs. Kansas City’s punter is his older brother, Dustin Colquitt. The brothers are sons of former NFL punter Craig Colquitt. Britton Colquitt said it was his father’s dream to have his sons punt on the same NFL field. Sunday, it will become true.
Can the Broncos score early? One of the Broncos’ biggest problems in 2010 is that they have started slowly and fallen behind quickly. Denver has scored just seven points in the first quarter this season. The key to winning in the NFL is to start fast. Denver has not been able to overcome their slow starts. If the Broncos are going to upset the Chiefs, they need to strike fast.
The return of Eddie Royal: One of the bright spots for Denver this season is the play of third-season receiver Royal. He flourished as a rookie under Denver coach Mike Shanahan in 2008. He had 91 catches. Yet, in 2009 Royal didn’t fit well in McDaniels’ offense. He had just 37 catches for 345 yards. Through eight games this season, Royal has 38 catches for 427 yards. Denver has a lot of problems, but it is a good sign that Royal is a productive player again.
Colquitts could have leg up in AFC West
August, 12, 2010
8/12/10
12:00
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Britton Colquitt is focusing on trying to make the Denver Broncos’ roster, and right now, his odds are fairly decent.
He is the lone punter in camp and if Colquitt continues to perform well, he will be on the team’s 53-man roster. If he struggles in the preseason, Denver will likely scour the waiver wire to replace him. If Colquitt does, indeed, make the Broncos’ roster, the AFC West’s punting crew will be half Colquitt.
Colquitt’s older brother is Kansas City standout punter Dustin Colquitt. Britton Colquitt admits it is a dream of his to play in the same division as his older brother. The Colquitt’s father, Craig Colquitt, punted for Pittsburgh from 1978-84.
“To be on the same field as him twice a year would be a real bonus,” Colquitt said.”My dad has always wanted to see us in the same field in the NFL.”
Britton Colquitt admits it will be strange to be facing his older brother if it gets to that point. The two went to the same high school and were at the University of Tennessee together.
“We’ve always been together, but this is the NFL and it’s a great opportunity,” Colquitt said. “I’m just going to work hard to make it happen.”
He is the lone punter in camp and if Colquitt continues to perform well, he will be on the team’s 53-man roster. If he struggles in the preseason, Denver will likely scour the waiver wire to replace him. If Colquitt does, indeed, make the Broncos’ roster, the AFC West’s punting crew will be half Colquitt.
Colquitt’s older brother is Kansas City standout punter Dustin Colquitt. Britton Colquitt admits it is a dream of his to play in the same division as his older brother. The Colquitt’s father, Craig Colquitt, punted for Pittsburgh from 1978-84.
“To be on the same field as him twice a year would be a real bonus,” Colquitt said.”My dad has always wanted to see us in the same field in the NFL.”
Britton Colquitt admits it will be strange to be facing his older brother if it gets to that point. The two went to the same high school and were at the University of Tennessee together.
“We’ve always been together, but this is the NFL and it’s a great opportunity,” Colquitt said. “I’m just going to work hard to make it happen.”
Camp Confidential: Denver Broncos
August, 11, 2010
8/11/10
11:46
AM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
ESPN.com NFL Power Ranking (pre-camp): 23
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- After he watched one key player after another limp to the training room this summer, Josh McDaniels came to a conclusion: The Denver Broncos are going to find a way to get better as a result.
Call it medical motivation.
“Sometimes, when everybody around you thinks the sky is falling because of injuries, it could rally a team,” the second-year Denver coach said. “That’s what we are doing. We are going to be motivated to show we can withstand what has happened to us. We’re not sitting here feeling sorry for ourselves.”
McDaniels swears Denver is having a productive training camp despite being the most injured team in the NFL. The biggest hit was the loss of star linebacker Elvis Dumervil. He is likely out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle. Other players who have been lost during camp include running backs Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, safety Brian Dawkins and linebackers D.J. Williams and Jarvis Moss. Don’t forget that left tackle Ryan Clady is out until sometime in September after hurting his knee in the offseason.
Still, McDaniels said it’s not a time of despair, because everyone but Dumervil is expected back in the near future.
“It hurts to lose Elvis, but maybe the other injuries are good that they happened now,” McDaniels said. “We are not worrying about who is not here. We trust our depth and we’re dealing with it.”
THREE HOT ISSUES
1. How will the Tebow factor affect the team? There is not a rookie in the NFL who is getting the attention that Tim Tebow is receiving. From special Nike shoes to a hideous training-camp haircut to operating in short yardage situations, the Tebow Watch is in full force.
The question is how his work in camp will affect the team on the field. The former Florida star quarterback has operated in short-yardage situations and he will likely be used in the Wildcat formation and in the red zone. That likely means Denver will keep quarterbacks Kyle Orton, Brady Quinn and Tebow on the 45-man roster on game days. In June, McDaniels said he was leaning away from that.
But it is clear that Tebow is being groomed to be active as a rookie. Unless Tebow completely leapfrogs Quinn in training camp and in the preseason, Denver could be using three quarterbacks on game days, which will take away from another position.
2. Can this team forget the final 10 games of 2009? Denver was the most perplexing team in the NFL in 2009. It shocked the league by starting 6-0. However, it suddenly fell apart and lost eight of its final 10 games.
Which team will we see in 2010? McDaniels, of course, won’t guarantee anything, but he believes Denver is heading in the right direction because of a strong training camp.
He said the team is making big strides this year because his program is established after 14 years under Mike Shanahan. McDaniels pointed out how much smoother and productive Denver was in its team scrimmage last weekend compared to last year’s scrimmage.
“It’s night and day,” McDaniels said. “Everybody knows the system now and that has helped camp.”
3. Can the running backs stay healthy? Moreno (hamstring) and Buckhalter (back) are supposed to be ready this month. But seeing the top two running backs go down on the first full day of camp had to be scary for Denver. The team has big plans for Moreno and Buckhalter.
Denver brought in veteran LenDale White to help in camp and perhaps as a short-yardage runner once he serves a four-game NFL suspension. The team is discussing signing former Oakland tailback Justin Fargas, perhaps as soon as Wednesday.
This is still the Moreno and Buckhalter show, but the Broncos have been forced to look at other options. Expect Moreno and Buckhalter to be handled very gingerly for the rest of camp and in the preseason in an attempt to ensure their health for the start of the regular season.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
The Broncos are excited about their receivers.
Brandon Lloyd and Matthew Willis have been outstanding. Eddie Royal is playing well in camp and the team hopes he can bounce back from a poor first season under McDaniels. After catching 91 passes as a rookie, Royal had just 37 catches last season.
Add rookies Thomas and Decker and Denver could have a decent receiving crew. That looked shaky after the team sent talented but troubled Brandon Marshall to Miami in April.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
How can it be anything other than the injury to Dumervil? He is arguably Denver’s best player and he just signed a huge, new contract. Denver was looking for him to have a dominant season. Dumervil led the NFL with 17 sacks last season.
Denver will have to find a pass rush elsewhere. A top candidate is 2009 first-round pick Robert Ayers. He struggled as a rookie. But he has been good in camp. Ayers will get every chance to turn it on and help make this bad situation workable.
OBSERVATION DECK
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- After he watched one key player after another limp to the training room this summer, Josh McDaniels came to a conclusion: The Denver Broncos are going to find a way to get better as a result.
Call it medical motivation.
“Sometimes, when everybody around you thinks the sky is falling because of injuries, it could rally a team,” the second-year Denver coach said. “That’s what we are doing. We are going to be motivated to show we can withstand what has happened to us. We’re not sitting here feeling sorry for ourselves.”
McDaniels swears Denver is having a productive training camp despite being the most injured team in the NFL. The biggest hit was the loss of star linebacker Elvis Dumervil. He is likely out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle. Other players who have been lost during camp include running backs Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, safety Brian Dawkins and linebackers D.J. Williams and Jarvis Moss. Don’t forget that left tackle Ryan Clady is out until sometime in September after hurting his knee in the offseason.
Still, McDaniels said it’s not a time of despair, because everyone but Dumervil is expected back in the near future.
“It hurts to lose Elvis, but maybe the other injuries are good that they happened now,” McDaniels said. “We are not worrying about who is not here. We trust our depth and we’re dealing with it.”
THREE HOT ISSUES
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Jack DempseyTim Tebow got a new haircut on Tuesday, replacing the monk haircut from earlier in the week.
AP Photo/Jack DempseyTim Tebow got a new haircut on Tuesday, replacing the monk haircut from earlier in the week.The question is how his work in camp will affect the team on the field. The former Florida star quarterback has operated in short-yardage situations and he will likely be used in the Wildcat formation and in the red zone. That likely means Denver will keep quarterbacks Kyle Orton, Brady Quinn and Tebow on the 45-man roster on game days. In June, McDaniels said he was leaning away from that.
But it is clear that Tebow is being groomed to be active as a rookie. Unless Tebow completely leapfrogs Quinn in training camp and in the preseason, Denver could be using three quarterbacks on game days, which will take away from another position.
2. Can this team forget the final 10 games of 2009? Denver was the most perplexing team in the NFL in 2009. It shocked the league by starting 6-0. However, it suddenly fell apart and lost eight of its final 10 games.
Which team will we see in 2010? McDaniels, of course, won’t guarantee anything, but he believes Denver is heading in the right direction because of a strong training camp.
He said the team is making big strides this year because his program is established after 14 years under Mike Shanahan. McDaniels pointed out how much smoother and productive Denver was in its team scrimmage last weekend compared to last year’s scrimmage.
“It’s night and day,” McDaniels said. “Everybody knows the system now and that has helped camp.”
[+] Enlarge
Ron Chenoy/US PresswireKnowshon Moreno, the team's leading rusher last season, is out with a hamstring injury.
Ron Chenoy/US PresswireKnowshon Moreno, the team's leading rusher last season, is out with a hamstring injury.Denver brought in veteran LenDale White to help in camp and perhaps as a short-yardage runner once he serves a four-game NFL suspension. The team is discussing signing former Oakland tailback Justin Fargas, perhaps as soon as Wednesday.
This is still the Moreno and Buckhalter show, but the Broncos have been forced to look at other options. Expect Moreno and Buckhalter to be handled very gingerly for the rest of camp and in the preseason in an attempt to ensure their health for the start of the regular season.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
The Broncos are excited about their receivers.
Brandon Lloyd and Matthew Willis have been outstanding. Eddie Royal is playing well in camp and the team hopes he can bounce back from a poor first season under McDaniels. After catching 91 passes as a rookie, Royal had just 37 catches last season.
Add rookies Thomas and Decker and Denver could have a decent receiving crew. That looked shaky after the team sent talented but troubled Brandon Marshall to Miami in April.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
How can it be anything other than the injury to Dumervil? He is arguably Denver’s best player and he just signed a huge, new contract. Denver was looking for him to have a dominant season. Dumervil led the NFL with 17 sacks last season.
Denver will have to find a pass rush elsewhere. A top candidate is 2009 first-round pick Robert Ayers. He struggled as a rookie. But he has been good in camp. Ayers will get every chance to turn it on and help make this bad situation workable.
OBSERVATION DECK
- Orton has quietly been a star in camp. He had a strong offseason and is, by far, the most accurate of three quarterbacks. While the future is Tebow’s in Denver, Orton is going to do everything he can to make 2010 special before he hits the free-agency market in 2011.[+] Enlarge
Jeff Fishbein/Icon SMIKyle Orton passed for 3,802 yards, 21 touchdowns and 12 interceptions for the Broncos last season. - Quinn, the current No. 2 quarterback in Denver, has been inaccurate often. The Broncos still like Quinn, who was acquired from Cleveland in March. However, with Orton being the immediate starter and Tebow being the future starter, he has his work cut out for him to find a spot in Denver.
- Keep an eye out for fifth-round pick Perrish Cox. He’s been outstanding in camp. “Every day, I look up and Perrish is making another big play,” Royal said. Cox is second at left cornerback behind star Champ Bailey. Cox will likely be the nickel cornerback. He is also dynamic as a return man.
- While Cox is ascending, second-year cornerback Alphonso Smith is still not progressing. Smith was the No. 37 overall pick in 2009. Denver gave up its first-round pick for Smith in 2010 (which was No. 14). He floundered as a rookie and he is not showing much improvement in camp as Cox is stealing the show.
- Richard Quinn, a second-round pick in 2009, is blocking very well in camp. He still must improve as a receiver, but Denver should feel comfortable with him in double tight-end sets with starter Daniel Graham.
- So far, defensive end Ryan McBean is holding off free-agent pickup Jarvis Green. However, the team likes Green and he is very versatile.
- Denver likes what it sees in former San Diego defensive tackle Jamal Williams in the early stages. With Dumervil out, a lot of Denver’s defensive burst must start from him at nose tackle. That may mean Williams may be on the field more than Denver likes. But he is showing, even at 34 and after missing all but one game in San Diego last year, he could still be a force.
- Denver knows it won’t all be roses, but it is at terms with rookies J.D. Walton (center) and Zane Beadles (guard) starting. Both players have showed intelligence and toughness in camp. Most importantly, they are big and strong and they are well suited for the power-blocking scheme McDaniels is adopting. Denver is scrapping the zone-blocking scheme used during the Shanahan era. One of the reasons is McDaniels wants a bigger offensive line that can stay fresh throughout the season.
- D’Anthony Batiste is doing well at left tackle. The Broncos think he will be a valuable backup when Clady returns from a knee injury in September.
- Inside linebacker Joe Mays, acquired from Philadelphia for running back J.J. Arrington less than two weeks ago, is impressing. He has worked some with the first team. He is likely to be a key backup and a special teamer.
- Veteran defensive lineman Marcus Thomas is buried on the depth chart. If he doesn’t pick up the rest of camp, he could be a candidate to be cut.
- Punter Britton Colquitt, the younger brother of Kansas City punter Dustin Colquitt, is doing well and he will likely win the job. He is going unchallenged, but if he falters, Denver could scour the waiver wire. So far, he is showing that may not be necessary.
The Kansas City Chiefs have given up on promising, but oft-injured, running back Kolby Smith. However, the Denver Broncos are willing to give him a chance to succeed in the NFL.
In a mildly surprising move, Denver claimed Smith off of waivers on Tuesday. The Chiefs cut Smith on Monday because he was stuck behind Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones in Kansas City’s backfield.
Smith joins a Denver backfield that includes Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter and J.J. Arrington. Smith is 5-11, 219 pounds. He will get a look in short-yardage situations. The Broncos were looking into bigger tailbacks Toby Gerhart and Montario Hardesty before the draft.
If he can stay healthy, Smith is worth the risk.
Meanwhile, Denver also went a long way in deciding its punting situation. It cut punter A.J. Trapasso. That means Britton Colquitt is the only punter on Denver’s roster. He will likely get camp competition but Colquitt -- the younger brother of Kansas City’s outstanding punter Dustin Colquitt -- has impressed Denver’s staff and unless he is terrible in training camp and in the preseason, he should take over as Denver’s punter.
Denver also cut rookie free agent linebacker Korey Bosworth. The UCLA product is the nephew of former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Brian Bosworth.
In a mildly surprising move, Denver claimed Smith off of waivers on Tuesday. The Chiefs cut Smith on Monday because he was stuck behind Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones in Kansas City’s backfield.
Smith joins a Denver backfield that includes Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter and J.J. Arrington. Smith is 5-11, 219 pounds. He will get a look in short-yardage situations. The Broncos were looking into bigger tailbacks Toby Gerhart and Montario Hardesty before the draft.
If he can stay healthy, Smith is worth the risk.
Meanwhile, Denver also went a long way in deciding its punting situation. It cut punter A.J. Trapasso. That means Britton Colquitt is the only punter on Denver’s roster. He will likely get camp competition but Colquitt -- the younger brother of Kansas City’s outstanding punter Dustin Colquitt -- has impressed Denver’s staff and unless he is terrible in training camp and in the preseason, he should take over as Denver’s punter.
Denver also cut rookie free agent linebacker Korey Bosworth. The UCLA product is the nephew of former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Brian Bosworth.
The Denver Broncos now have two punters on their roster to close out the season.
Denver signed rookie Britton Colquitt off of Miami’s practice squad. Colquitt, whose brother Dustin in an outstanding punter for Kansas City, was with Denver during camp.
Denver also has veteran punter Mitch Berger on the roster. Berger has signed heading into Denver’s seventh game and he has struggled often. The Broncos cut punter Brett Kern when they were 6-0. Denver is now 8-7.
It wouldn’t be a shock if Colquitt was given the opportunity to punt against his brother Sunday as Denver tries to keep its playoff hopes alive against the Chiefs.
Denver signed rookie Britton Colquitt off of Miami’s practice squad. Colquitt, whose brother Dustin in an outstanding punter for Kansas City, was with Denver during camp.
Denver also has veteran punter Mitch Berger on the roster. Berger has signed heading into Denver’s seventh game and he has struggled often. The Broncos cut punter Brett Kern when they were 6-0. Denver is now 8-7.
It wouldn’t be a shock if Colquitt was given the opportunity to punt against his brother Sunday as Denver tries to keep its playoff hopes alive against the Chiefs.
Broncos trim roster, cut draft choice
September, 1, 2009
9/01/09
2:50
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
The Denver Broncos cut four players Tuesday to get down to the NFL-mandated maximum of 75 players.
There was a mild surprise. The team cut center Blake Schlueter, a seventh-round pick. The Texas Christian product wasn’t, by any means, considered a lock to make the team, but you would think a draft choice would make it past the round of 75 and, at least, compete for a spot on the practice squad.
The other name of note was veteran tight end Jeb Putzier. He finished last season with the Broncos and was re-signed by the new regime this offseason. The other players cut were punter Britton Colquitt and receiver C.J. Jones.
Hairy times for three Denver rookies
August, 11, 2009
8/11/09
6:35
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Several veterans has some fun with three unsuspecting rookies Tuesday morning
Quarterback Tom Brandstater, offensive lineman Blake Schlueter and punter Britton Colquitt were all sporting mutilated haircuts, courtesy of the team's veteran offensive linemen and long-snapper Lonie Paxton. According to Brandstater, Paxson was the butcher, er, barber.
Brandstater said he hopes he will be able to shave the remaining hair the offensive linemen left him in the next day or so. Brandstater said his main concern during the impromptu haircut that occurred about 15 minutes before practice Tuesday was "to preserve my eyebrows."
"I hope my mom is still proud of me," Brandstater, said with a laugh.
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
