AFC West: Renaldo Hill
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Friday he agreed to terms. The Denver Post is reporting the deal is now for four years, $9.5 million. McGahee will turn 30 this season. Again, I think McGahee can make some plays, but his contributions will likely be limited. He had 209 carries the past two years combined.
In other AFC West news:
Denver agreed to terms with receiver David Anderson. The former Colorado State player was cut by Houston. He has a chance to be a rotational receiver and special teamer in Denver.
The Chargers had interest in former Green Bay linebacker Nick Barnett, but not at the price that it will take to sign him.
There still doesn’t seem to be much of market for Oakland Pro Bowl tight end Zach Miller. At this point, I’d be surprised if he went elsewhere.
As expected, the Broncos cut safety Renaldo Hill as the team clears cap space. Hill was with the team the past two years. He wasn’t going to start this season.
The Broncos were interested in former Houston first-round pick Amobi Okoye. But he reportedly agreed to terms with the Bears shortly after being cut by the Texans. In a strange one, Denver is bringing in Broncos’ defensive tackle Marcus Thomas in for a visit. He has been with the team since 2007.
Denver took Oklahoma safety Quinton Carter with the 108th pick in the fourth round. He is a strong safety and will likely get a chance to replace Brian Dawkins at some point, perhaps soon.
With the No. 45 pick, Denver took UCLA safety Rahim Moore. He is expected to be the instant starter at free safety, replacing Renaldo Hill. Moore and Carter are among the best safety prospects in a weak class.
Denver has taken four defensive players in its first five picks but has yet to draft a defensive tackle -- despite it being a trouble area. Denver coach John Fox said on Friday night that the team will address the position when free agency starts.
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. breaks down the division’s safeties.
He ranks the Kansas City Chiefs with the best safeties in the division. That’s impressive considering Eric Berry and Kendrick Lewis were both rookies last year. But there’s no doubt these are two talented players with bright futures.
Williamson admits that the ranking is a little skewed because of the uncertainty of how free agency will look after the NFL lockout. San Diego’s Eric Weddle and Oakland’s Michael Huff are potential free agents. Williamson had Denver’s safety pair of Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill ranked last in the division. There is a chance one or both of these players won’t be in Denver in 2011. The Broncos are expected to look at safeties in both free agency and in the draft.
Meanwhile, Aaron Schatz of the Football Outsiders does what he does best and crunches the numbers on cornerback play. You’ll notice favorable ratings for both Oakland’s Stanford Routt and Kansas City’s Brandon Carr.
It further evidence of Routt’s strong 2010 season. We looked at his strong "burn rate" numbers earlier this offseason. Routt just re-signed for Oakland for three years. He could be the team’s No.1 cornerback if Nnamdi Asomugha goes elsewhere as a free agent.
John Elway still has an impact in Denver
Justin Edmonds/Getty ImagesChiefs coach Todd Haley, left, wasn't pleased after Josh McDaniels and the Broncos beat the Chiefs in a 49-29 blowout.Paging No. 7.
McDaniels asked legendary Broncos quarterback John Elway to address the team. To the best of the knowledge of several long-time Denver officials, it was the first time Elway had addressed the team as a whole since he retired in 1999 after winning Super Bowl titles in his final two seasons.
Elway broached several subjects with the players, who knelt on the practice field and listened intently. Among the topics: Elway’s travails in Denver, and the need to try to win on a daily basis and to enjoy the moment. Elway, 50, told players he still occasionally wishes he had the opportunity to play again and that they needed to seize the moment and not waste their opportunity as NFL players.
At one point, Elway asked players to raise their hands if they would be relieved to win against the Chiefs on Sunday. When several players raised their hands, he said that was the wrong attitude to take. He said winning teams are built during the week and hard work is the key. Elway works for the Broncos as a marketing spokesman and he is interested in becoming a part owner of the team. He has been a presence at some practices this season.
“This is a Hall of Fame player, a two-time Super Bowl champion, this is the biggest name in team history,” Denver safety Renaldo Hill said. “I wanted to hear every word this man said.”
Clearly, Elway’s words sank in. Denver went out and played its best game of the season and one of its best games of the 25-game McDaniels era in a 49-29 victory over Kansas City on Sunday. Denver quarterback Kyle Orton, who threw for 296 yards and four touchdowns, said he wasn’t sure if Elway’s message played a direct role in the blowout, but he said it certainly set up the team for a confident week.
“I think it hit home for everyone from Brian Dawkins and Champ Bailey all the way down to the rookies,” Orton said. “It was a really a big deal for John to do that for us.”
It’s clear Denver came out with a strong focus Sunday. In one of the more surprising games of the season, the Broncos jumped out to a 35-0 lead in the second quarter. The game was never close.
The result is a jumbled AFC West.
The Chiefs have crashed back to earth in the past two weeks. They are 5-4 after losing in overtime at Oakland and this debacle. The Chiefs could have had a commanding 2.5-game lead in the division last week. Now, they are tied with Oakland for first place with seven games to go. San Diego, which has won two consecutive games, is lurking a game behind at 4-5. Denver is two games behind at 3-6. It is sure to be a wild finish in the division.
This game was Kansas City’s worst game of the season by far. In its three previous losses, Kansas City competed hard and could have easily won each game. It was hammered Sunday by Denver.
“It’s very tough,” Kansas City cornerback Brandon Carr said.
Kansas City coach Todd Haley wasn’t pleased, either. He appeared to have terse words for McDaniels during an extremely brief meeting at midfield after the game. Haley pointed his finger at McDaniels and then walked away. It appeared that the two did not shake hands. Haley wouldn’t address the situation after the game and the Broncos said all postgame exchanges are private matters. Many Denver starters played the whole game even though it was never close.
I’m sure Haley will have his team ready to play Denver when it visits Kansas City in three weeks. Still, I’m also sure the exchange with Haley did not ruin McDaniels’ day. He needed this win. The last time Denver played at home, it was humiliated 59-14 by Oakland. McDaniels was booed as he left the field after the game and he apologized for the loss. He had been berated publicly in Denver since that game. The fact that Denver bounced back with the second-most points in a game in team history will buy time for McDaniels in the eyes of some fans.
Denver was clearly ready to play despite having the distraction of middle linebacker D.J. Williams being arrested for suspicion of drunk driving at 2:50 a.m. Friday. Williams didn’t play the first series Sunday. He also was fined heavily and was stripped of his captaincy. Still, Denver wasn’t bothered by anything Sunday.
It ran for a season-high 153 yards. The offensive line, which is finally healthy, played well and the defense had had four sacks. It had nine in its first eight games. Even Tim Tebow got into the act. The rookie backup quarterback was on the field for three plays. He ran for a touchdown on one play and threw for a touchdown on another other -- his first NFL pass.
Everything worked for Denver on a day it muddled the AFC West race. Perhaps this one was for John.
“John really fired me up,” Hill said. “He has what I want and that's championships. It was great hearing him talk about how to do it.”
1. Nnamdi Asomugha, Oakland: He is a treat to watch. He’s simply a master of his art.
2. Champ Bailey, Denver: Bailey should be a shoo-in, first-ballot hall of famer. He’s brilliant. The only reason why Asomugha is listed higher than Bailey is that Bailey will be 32 this season and Asomugha will be 29.
3. Brian Dawkins, Denver: He’s still at the top of his game at the age of 36. Another hall of famer.
4. Quentin Jammer, San Diego: He gets lost because of Asomugha and Bailey. But Jammer is a shut-down corner himself. He’s the quiet leader of a good secondary.
5. Brandon Flowers, Kansas City: You may not know much about this third-year player. But you will. Flowers is outstanding.
6. Tyvon Branch, Oakland: This is another third-year standout. Branch broke out last year with 124 tackles.
7. Eric Weddle, San Diego: He is another fine safety. Weddle gets better each year. He’s a big-league playmaker.
8. Eric Berry, Kansas City: I wouldn’t be surprised if Berry was in the top four next year. The No. 5 overall draft pick is a star waiting to happen.
9. Andre Goodman, Denver: Goodman is an underrated player. He fits in with Denver’s veteran unit.
10. Renaldo Hill, Denver: The same goes for Hill. He’s not a special player, but he’s a fine pro.
11. Antoine Cason, San Diego: This is a big year for the Chargers’ No. 1 pick in 2008. He is taking over for the traded Antonio Cromartie. I think Cason will become steadier and more reliable than Cromartie in a hurry.
12. Brandon Carr, Kansas City: Carr is a big reason why the Chiefs are so excited about their secondary. He’s a feisty No. 2 corner.
13. Michael Huff, Oakland: Huff tried to salvage his career last year. The No. 7 overall pick in 2007 is OK, but far from special.
14. Steve Gregory, San Diego: He always seems to help the Chargers when they need it. Gregory has limitations, but he can contribute.
15. Chris Johnson, Oakland: Johnson is the type of player who teams try to replace, but he’s a steady pro.
16. Alphonso Smith, Denver: The Broncos gave up their 2010 first-round pick to draft him in 2009. After a disappointing rookie season, Smith looks to have a huge year and will get a chance to shine as Denver’s nickel cornerback.
17. Javier Arenas, Kansas City: I’m excited to see this second-round pick play. I think he’ll be a playmaker.
18. Darrell Stuckey, San Diego: The Chargers like their fourth-round pick. He has a chance to start.
» Draft Watch: Biggest needs (2/17) | Busts/gems (2/24) | Schemes, themes (3/3) | Recent history (3/10) | Needs revisited (3/17) | Under-the-radar needs (3/26) | History in that spot (3/31) | Draft approach (4/7) | Decision-makers (4/14) | Dream scenario/Plan B (4/21)
Each week leading up to the NFL draft (April 22-24), the ESPN.com blog network will take a division-by-division look at key aspects of the draft. Today’s topic: Under the radar needs.
Denver
I could see Denver drafting a safety in the fourth round. Starters Brian Dawkins (36) and Renaldo Hill (31) will not be around forever. Denver did take Darcel McBath in the second round last year and he made some decent strides before getting hurt. It would hurt Denver to try to find another young safety to develop. I could also see Denver looking for a big running back late in the draft. The team needs a pounder. The Broncos struggled in short-yardage situations. The Broncos also need a punter.
Kansas City
The Chiefs have done a nice job in free agency, but they still have plenty of needs heading into the draft. Many of Kansas City’s needs are on the defensive side of the ball. I wouldn’t be surprised if Kansas City added multiple linebackers, perhaps starting in the second round. Since the Chiefs use a 3-4 defense, they need several linebackers on an aging crew. Linebacker might be the top need after safety, offensive line and receiver. The Chiefs are young on the defensive front, but it wouldn’t hurt to get more talent in the later rounds at nose tackle. Even though tight end is not a glamour position in Todd Haley’s offense, the Chiefs do need some talent there.
Oakland
After the offensive line, linebacker and quarterback, the Raiders need some defensive line help, especially at tackle. Watch for Oakland to use a mid-round pick on this position. I could also see Oakland trying to find a running back in the third-to-fifth rounds. It cut Justin Fargas and needs some help behind Darren McFadden and Michael Bush. Oakland was set to visit with former Kansas City star Larry Johnson before he signed with Washington. Cornerback and safety are other areas Oakland might address add late in the draft. Oakland also needs some help at receiver. Ideally, it would be in the form of a veteran (Terrell Owens, anyone?) because Oakland is so green at the position.
San Diego
This is an important draft for the Chargers. The team has has lost several players this offseason. San Diego is still the class of the AFC West and it has pretty nice depth. But reinforcements are needed at several positions. The Chargers’ biggest needs are running back and nose tackle. But San Diego will be busy after filling those two early needs. San Diego could use some youth at defensive end and inside linebacker. Also, watch for the team to look for a cornerback in the post-Antonio Cromartie era. Offensively, San Diego needs a blocking tight end to replace Brandon Manumaleuna, who signed with Chicago. That position could be addressed in the middle rounds. San Diego also could use a young right tackle to groom. I could also see a young receiver taken in the late rounds.
Denver's defense is getting old quickly
The group is an improvement from last season. Still, the new players are making Denver a very old defense.
A lot will happen in free agency and in the draft, but there is a chance Denver will have nine defensive starters over the age of 30. Six of Denver’s starters last season __ Champ Bailey (31), Brian Dawkins (36), Andra Davis (31), Andre Goodman (31), Mario Haggan (30) and Renaldo Hill (31) – will be 30 or older by the start of the 2010 season. Bannan will be 31 next month, Williams will be 34 next month and Green is 31.
The only current key Denver defenders are linebackers Elvis Dumervil (26) and D.J. Williams (27). Apparently, Denver believes this unit is built to win now. It better be because this group won’t be around together for long.
In the end, Denver didn't make progress
Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesThe Broncos finished a disappointing season out of the playoffs after starting 6-0.DENVER – The Denver Broncos handled one thing right after their Week 7 bye and it came in the moments after their tumultuous season ended Sunday.
They were crushed. And they should be.
There is no doubt Denver – which played Sunday without benched Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall and tight end Tony Scheffler -- is feeling the sting of its colossal collapse. Many players had tears in their eyes. Many said the nosedive cannot be tolerated.
After getting help in the AFC playoff hunt in the early games Sunday, Denver could keep its playoff hopes alive with a win over the 3-12 Kansas City Chiefs, who hadn’t won in over a month. But the Chiefs were the team that played with urgency. Kansas City put together its best game of the season and punched the host Broncos in the mouth, 44-24. Spectacular second-year running back Jamaal Charles ran for a franchise high 259 yards on 25 carries and linebacker Derrick Johnson tied an NFL record with two interceptions returned for touchdowns.
“It was embarrassing,” Denver defensive end Vonnie Holliday said. “Embarrassing.”
It was a fitting end into a terrible 10-week stretch for Denver.
Denver started the season 6-0. But it lost eight of its final 10 games to finish 8-8. It is the third team since the merger to not make the playoffs after starting 6-0. Denver had a 3.5 game lead over San Diego after Week 6. It is the first team in NFL history to not make the playoffs after having a 3.5-game lead. Had Denver beaten Oakland and Kansas City (they combined for nine wins this season) in its final two home games, it would have gone to the playoffs for first time in four seasons. Instead, the Broncos will have to spend the winter fretting over the lost opportunity.
That isn’t the only issue in Denver, though. The season ended with serious upheaval.
On New Year’s Day, Denver rookie coach Josh McDaniels dropped a major bombshell by indicating that Marshall and Scheffler would be benched against the Chiefs for accountability reasons. ESPN’s Ed Werder reported Sunday that Marshall was benched for being late to a therapy session Thursday to treat a hamstring injury the team thought he was exaggerating. Marshall had 101 catches in 15 games and was named to his second Pro Bowl team last week. Werder reported Scheffler was benched for openly saying he couldn’t wait for the team’s season to end. Neither Marshall nor Scheffler was seen with the team Sunday.
After the game, McDaniels didn’t address the issue.
Some players did, though. Safety Renaldo Hill said “we have to back the coach” on the decision. Team leader Brian Dawkins said Marshall and Scheffler’s absence in the biggest game of the season had no factor on the outcome of the game. Holliday did say this: “We still are an immature team.”
The season ends in Denver with the same discord in which the McDaniels’ era began. Denver dominated NFL headlines when McDaniels feuded with, and then traded, Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler after McDaniels flirted with the idea trading Cutler for Matt Cassel, who starred for McDaniels in New England last season. Ironically, Cassel contributed in knocking Denver out of the playoffs Sunday.
Perhaps this offseason will not be as dramatic as last year in Denver, but expect McDaniels to continue to try to mold the roster to his liking. There is likely little chance Marshall or Scheffler returns. It would be very difficult for either player to be brought back under these circumstances. Both players likely will be restricted free agents.
This is the third time in the past four seasons that Denver lost on the final day of the season with their playoff hopes still alive. Last year, Mike Shanahan was fired after 14 seasons when Denver lost a three-game lead in the final three weeks of the season.
McDaniels made a very pointed comment Sunday. He said he has to find the “common denominator” in the recent collapses.
That clearly means more members of the old regime could be on their way out. Thus, it wouldn’t be a surprise if some of remaining staff members from Shanahan’s regime or some of holdover players from Shanahan’s days are not brought back.
“I’m not going to be dramatic about it,” McDaniels said. “I wish we were playing next week, but we didn’t play well enough to deserve that opportunity. There’s no question about that. The last four weeks we didn’t earn the right to continue to play in this league into the playoffs. We’ve got a lot of work to do and there’s definitely going to have to be some things that change. We can’t just go back and do the same thing.”
After the 10-week collapse and the player-coach discord, Denver can’t go into this offseason believing major progress has been made. This is not a good time for the organization.
Yes, there are many positive attributes about McDaniels, 33. He has the makings of building a good program, but the way this season ended cannot be overlooked.
In the end, there isn’t much different from the way this season concluded than last, other than the fact that the head coach is coming back. There is still plenty of work to be done in Denver.
Tackle Herb Taylor was cut to make room for Carter. The Broncos have some injuries in their defensive backfield so Carter was likely promoted to provide depth Sunday against Oakland. Both cornerback Ty Law and safety Renaldo Hill have been hobbled this week.
Ranking the defenses in the AFC West
Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
Earlier this summer, we ranked the offenses in the AFC West. Now, it’s time to rank the defenses in the division.
While the offenses all have some good pieces, most of the division’s defenses aren’t in great shape. It’s one of the biggest reasons why this division is not expected to be strong in 2009.
Let’s rank them:
1. San Diego: The Chargers’ defense had an uneven season in 2008, but it finished strong.
A major reason why we expect it to start strong this season: Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera has had a full offseason to prepare his team. He took over for the fired Ted Cottrell at midseason last year. The Chargers had instant success under Rivera, particularly in the pass-defense game.
The Chargers expect further improvement under Rivera this year, especially with the return of star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman. He missed all but one game last season with a knee injury. The Chargers missed Merriman’s pass rush (he led the NFL with 39.5 sacks in his first three NFL seasons) and his fire. Without him, the Chargers got pushed around. He has acknowledged that his knee likely won’t be fully recovered for a few weeks into the regular season, but his presence alone should help immensely.
The Chargers drafted Larry English in the first round to improve the pass rush and they are excited about linebacker Shaun Phillips’ role. Expect a lot of creative packages to come from the mind of Rivera.
Those changes should help cornerback Antonio Cromartie have a rebound year. He struggled badly in 2008 but has looked good so far this summer.
If the Chargers don’t suffer any major injuries, expect a solid year from this talented unit.
2. Kansas City: It gets dicey here. The Chiefs, Broncos and Raiders all have big problems on defense. But from the look of the preseason, we are giving the Chiefs a slight edge. There isn’t much separating this trio, however.
OK, so it’s not a rousing endorsement, but there are some things to be encouraged about within the Chiefs’ defense.
New defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast has the team running a 3-4 scheme. So far in the preseason, the Kansas City defense appears to be further along than the offense. The unit has been aggressive and has not been embarrassed.
The Chiefs are excited about their defensive front, which features Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey, who were top five picks in the past two drafts. The Chiefs hope these two can create a semblance of a professional pass rush. Kansas City set an NFL record for the fewest sacks last year with 10.
The Chiefs have an interesting mix of youth and veteran leadership at linebacker and there are some playmakers in the secondary, including Brandon Flowers and Mike Brown.
Pendergast is creative and there is enough talent here that Kansas City could make some defensive strides.
3. Denver: Like Pendergast in Kansas City, new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan is doing some nice things with Denver’s defense.
Nolan is running a 3-4 scheme as the Broncos try to reconstruct one of the worst defensive units in the league. Nolan’s approach looks to be much more aggressive than it was last season and much more active in attacking the ball.
Still, in the second and third preseason games, the first-team defense allowed more than 300 yards passing. Denver concentrated on the pass defense in free agency as it reshaped the secondary to go along with star left cornerback Champ Bailey. Still, Denver did bring in some nice veteran talent to the secondary in the form of Brian Dawkins, Renaldo Hill and Andre Goodman. So eventually, this group should be fine.
The big issue is on the defensive front. The Broncos have a very raw front three. It if can play beyond expectations, Denver’s defense may not be as bad as expected.
4: Oakland: Raiders fans are going to be up in arms at this ranking. But really, do we have any other choice after what has happened this preseason?
No, no, we don’t.
The Raiders’ defense, which has struggled in recent seasons, has been brutal this preseason. Oakland’s first-team defense allowed New Orleans to score 31 points in the first half last weekend.
Oakland’s run defense has been alarmingly bad. It has allowed 507 yards on the ground in the second and third preseason games. Oakland was ranked No. 31 in the NFL against the run last season.
Oakland didn’t do much to change defensively other than to bring in new coordinator John Marshall. So far, the change doesn’t appear to have helped.
Again, there is not much separating the bottom three defenses here. They’ve all been bad recently. But the Raiders appear to have made the fewest strides in the preseason, so that why they head into the regular season with this ranking.
NAPA, Calif. -- Wrapping up a crazy day in the AFC West:
Darrius Heyward-Bey is one practice into his NFL career. He arrived at Oakland's camp during the afternoon practice and got some practice time after his contract was finalized.
The first pass that came his way, though, sailed through his hands. The biggest knock on Heyward-Bey has been his hands. He needs to pick it up now that he is guaranteed $23-plus million.
Oakland coach Tom Cable said the team released former starting quarterback Andrew Walter because his time in Oakland "ran its course." Don't be surprised at all if Denver considers signing the Grand Junction, Colo., native. Walter may fit new Denver coach Josh McDaniels' system.
The Broncos appear further apart with running back Knowshon Moreno than their other first rounder, defensive end/linebacker Robert Ayers. There is some hope that Ayers could be signed soon.
At Kansas City's camp, Pro Bowl guard Brian Waters showed up for training camp. He had wanted a trade. Waters did show up for the mandatory minicamp. He may still be unhappy, but it appears he will continue to play for the Chiefs.
The Chiefs are now on the clock concerning No. 3 overall draft pick Tyson Jackson. No. 2 overall pick Jason Smith signed with the Rams on Thursday. Jackson didn't not report to the Chiefs' camp on time Thursday.
Denver defensive starters -- Champ Bailey, Renaldo Hill and Marcus Thomas -- will start training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Denver signed cornerback Rashod Moulton and receiver Travis Shelton.
Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
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Denver Broncos
Training camp site: Englewood, Colo.
Campfires: A key to camp will be how well rookie running back Knowshon Moreno adjusts. The Broncos drafted him with the No. 12 overall pick because they wanted him to have a major role in the offense. Denver coach Josh McDaniels envisions Moreno as a three-down back. Even though Denver is deep at running back, Moreno wasn't drafted to be a complementary piece.
The Broncos' offense is changing and the Georgia product can be the centerpiece of the unit if he has a strong camp. Moreno was impressive in the offseason and Denver wants to see him lock down a starting job in camp.
The Broncos want to see second-round pick Alphonso Smith take command of the nickel cornerback job. The team sent its first-round pick in next year's draft to Seattle to acquire Smith with the No. 37 pick. He failed to solidify the nickel spot in the offseason, battling with second-year player Jack Williams for the job. Expect the playmaking Smith to pull away from Williams as camp marches on.
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| Ron Chenoy/US Presswire | |
| Knowshon Moreno could become the workhorse in Denver's offense if he has a good camp. |
Camp will be a downer if ... starting quarterback Kyle Orton doesn't make strides in McDaniels' system. McDaniels picked Orton to be his first quarterback in Denver after the Jay Cutler fiasco. McDaniels chose Orton over several other options because he thought the former Chicago quarterback could excel in his system.
Orton was named the starter over Chris Simms in June, partly to give him the most time in training camp with the first team. If Orton doesn't respond well to McDaniels' offense during camp and in the preseason, the Broncos will be quite nervous about their once-solid quarterback position heading into the season.
Camp will be a success if ... receiver Brandon Marshall doesn't miss any time due to a holdout and is recovered from a late March hip surgery. Marshall has asked to be traded. Yet, he recently said he planned to report to training camp on time -- he is due Monday because he is an injured player -- to avoid being fined.
If Marshall shows up with a good attitude and doesn't show any wear from the surgery -- as the team expects the case will be -- it will be a positive development after a rocky start to McDaniels' era.
Aged secondary: There is no doubt Denver improved its secondary this offseason. The unit, which featured seven different starting safeties in 2008, was revamped. Veteran Andre' Goodman will now start opposite left cornerback Champ Bailey, the lone holdover. Veterans Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill were brought in at safety.
This is a solid group. But it is an old group. Dawkins turns 36 in October. Bailey is 31. Goodman will turn 31 next month and Hill will turn 31 in November. It is the oldest secondary in the NFL since at least 2000. The unit may be improved, but it will be interesting to see how this group's legs hold up late in the season.
Kansas City Chiefs
Training camp site: River Falls, Wis.
Campfires: The Chiefs will be interested to see how their defensive line, which they have invested so much in, adjusts to the 3-4 alignment that the new regime has installed in Kansas City.
Former LSU stars Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson are the centerpieces of the line. Dorsey was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2008 draft. Jackson was the No. 3 overall pick this year. Dorsey is a natural 4-3 tackle who will likely be tried at end. Jackson will play end. If Dorsey, who was so-so as a rookie, can make the transition to the 3-4, the Chiefs have a chance for an excellent line. Jackson may not be a dynamic pass-rusher, but he is an excellent run-stuffer and is expected to bring toughness to the line. Both of these former top picks have to show they are ready during camp to bring life to a defense that set an NFL
record for fewest sacks last season with 10.
Replacing the legendary Tony Gonzalez, traded to Atlanta in April for a second-round draft choice next year, will be a big part of training camp. Second-year player Brad Cottam may have an edge. He is a blocking specialist. Journeymen Tony Curtis and Sean Ryan should get a chance to show what they can do. Whoever wins the job likely won't be a major part of the passing offense. New coach Todd Haley was not a big proponent of the position as the offensive coordinator in Arizona last season.
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| Kirby Lee/US Presswire | |
| Dwayne Bowe has had some problems with hanging on to the ball. |
Camp will be a downer if ... Matt Cassel flops. Cassel is the guy in Kansas City. That became evident when the Chiefs gave him a monster contract earlier this month. Cassel will be paid more than $40 million in guaranteed money in the next three years.
Cassel was a surprise star for New England last season after he took over for an injured Tom Brady in the first game. The Chiefs, led by new general manager Scott Pioli, who witnessed Cassel's success first hand as a New England executive, are hoping the quarterback can enjoy the same success this year. Still, Cassel has a lot fewer weapons than he had with New England, and he will be working behind a young and unsettled offensive line. If Cassel takes his lumps in camp and in the preseason, the Chiefs may have some buyer's remorse.
Camp will be a success if ... the team buys into Haley's approach. The Chiefs were shell-shocked as they transitioned to the tough Haley, who was groomed by Bill Parcells. The Chiefs were used to the easy-going ways of Herm Edwards. Haley is much more demanding and harsher than Edwards ever was.
Haley is a certified screamer and he has expressed this offseason that his team -- which won a total of six games over the past two seasons -- needs to be better in all phases of the game. He also directed a mass weight-loss program because he thought his team was too heavy and too soft. A coach like Haley can either light a fire under a team or alienate it. His first training camp could indicate which way it will go. If the team is behind Haley, the Chiefs' rebuilding period could be shorter than expected.
Hold onto the ball: Cassel's best weapon is receiver Dwayne Bowe. He is a talented player and has a chance to emerge as one of the best young receivers in the game and team with Cassel as a top pass-catch tandem. However, he needs to learn to catch the ball consistently.
Bowe needs to work on his hands during camp. He struggled with dropped ball some during the offseason. He has struggled holding onto the ball in the past. While Larry Johnson appears to have some NFL life left, Bowe is the Chiefs' top weapon. If he drops balls during the season, Cassel's job will be even more difficult. Camp has to be a time where Bowe finds his ball-catching groove.
Oakland Raiders
Training camp site: Napa, Calif.
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| AP Photo/Paul Sakuma | |
| The Raiders are hoping first-round pick Darrius Heyward-Bey can shore up their receiving corps. |
Campfires: The Raiders have tried to upgrade an offensive line that has struggled in recent years, especially in pass protection. The team has added several pieces and the situation at tackle will be watched closely.
The team brought in talented and massive tackle Khalif Barnes as a free agent from Jacksonville to compete on the left side. However, there were indications after the minicamp season that young Mario Henderson was playing well enough to be considered the favorite to win the job over Barnes. Barnes could still be in the mix at right tackle if Henderson wins the job on the left side.
The Raiders will also need to get some clarity at receiver. The unit has been one of the team's weakest areas for years and the Raiders need some reliable players to emerge during camp. The team is counting on youngsters Chaz Schilens, Johnnie Lee Higgins and Darrius Heyward-Bey. If these young players show they are ready to take the next step, Oakland's offense has a chance to be balanced.
Camp will be a downer if ... quarterback JaMarcus Russell doesn't make strides. Russell has to show he is ready to be an NFL quarterback this season, and training camp and the preseason will go a long way toward telling whether he is ready to make a move. This is Russell's second full season as a starter. He has had some moments, but he has been mostly inconsistent, including during this offseason.
Russell will have extra pressure on him in the presence of veteran backup Jeff Garcia. Garcia has not been shy in expressing that he thinks he should be the starter. However, the Raiders will only be masking a problem if Garcia, 39, is the quarterback. If Russell doesn't have a good camp and he doesn't show consistency is his passing and improved leadership, the Raiders will be in a tough spot.
Camp will be a success if ... the Raiders develop a strong plan on how to use their tailbacks. The Raiders have three solid runners in Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas and Michael Bush. All three players possess rare talents that can help Oakland's offense. The Raiders struggled to use all three well last season.
Training camp must be used to find a suitable role for all three players. This may be the NFL's deepest running back group if all three stay healt
hy. The Raiders can find their niche on offense with McFadden, Fargas and Bush. Finding a way to do it has to be a goal of camp.
Ready or not: All eyes will be on Heyward-Bey, a receiver who was Oakland's first-round pick, and Mike Mitchell, the safety who was Oakland's second-round pick. The selections of both players were roundly criticized on draft day. Heyward-Bey was the first receiver taken at No. 7, but he was considered a low first-round talent. Mitchell was not on the draft board of several teams, yet the hard-hitting Ohio University product was taken with the No. 47 pick.
The Raiders believe both players can be special and it is clear both players have some skills. Yet, because of the negative hype stemming from their selections, extra pressure will be on both players. Their every move will be watched in camp. Welcome to the NFL, fellas.
San Diego Chargers
Training camp site: San Diego, Calif.
Campfires: This camp will be about seeing what a promising rookie class can do in San Diego. For a veteran-based team, there is an intriguing influx of young talent coming to town.
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| Christopher Hanewinckel/US Presswire | |
| The Chargers' secondary needs Antonio Cromartie to return to Pro Bowl form in 2009. |
First-round pick Larry English is expected to start right away and be part of an intriguing threesome of pass-rushing linebackers that includes Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips. Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, in his first full season in his role, has been scheming ways all offseason to use all three together. The Chargers believe English is ready to step in and make an impact right away.
Keep an eye out for two other rookies. Third-round pick Louis Vasquez will be given a chance to emerge as a starter at guard. Sixth-round pick Kevin Ellison will have the same chance at safety. He may have a steeper climb up the depth chart than Vasquez, but the Chargers think Ellison can make an impact as a rookie. The USC product was downgraded in the draft because of injuries, but he is skilled and he is a feared hitter. He could be the answer at one of the Chargers' few weak spots. But he needs to show his ability during camp.
Camp will be a downer if ... Merriman doesn't make strides from a serious knee injury he suffered last year. Merriman missed all but one game last season.
The Chargers have been cautiously optimistic about Merriman, but they have been bringing him along slowly. He has been working out on his own and the team will likely be cautious with him during camp. However, Merriman looks fantastic and he reports that he is doing well. The team expects him to be ready for the regular season. The Chargers' entire pass defense missed Merriman last year. If Merriman can't show he is getting ready for the season, the Chargers may be in store for another rocky season on defense.
Camp will be a success if ... cornerback Antonio Cromartie has a big camp and preseason. Cromartie had a disappointing season in 2008 after being a star in 2007. He suffered with injuries and off-field issues last season. He has worked out very hard this year and the Chargers were thrilled with him during the offseason. If he has a big camp, the Chargers should be in great shape on defense, especially if Merriman doesn't have a setback.
Is this it for LT? The Chargers and star running back LaDainian Tomlinson nearly parted ways this offseason before agreeing on a restructured new contract. Tomlinson just turned 30. He is coming off an injury-plagued season in which his production slipped.
He has said often this offseason he feels great. He needs to show he still has the skills that made him one of the greatest running backs in recent memory.
Broncos' weakness: Defensive front seven
Posted by Scouts Inc.'s Matt Williamson
Despite allowing 28 points per game last season, the Denver Broncos used only four of their 10 draft picks on the defensive side of the ball. Of those four selections, only the 18th overall pick, Robert Ayers, is a front-seven player. And, oh yeah, Denver is changing its defensive scheme to a 3-4.
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The Broncos did draft three defensive backs and also added Renaldo Hill, Andre' Goodman and Brian Dawkins on the back end. The secondary has a chance to be vastly improved and is now fortified for the long term. But if a defense allows opposing quarterbacks to sit back in the pocket without much heat, NFL receivers are going to get open. Denver sacked opposing quarterbacks only 26 times last season, and only three defenses allowed more than the Broncos' 7.7 yards average in the passing game.
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| Ron Chenoy/US Presswire | |
| The Broncos are hoping rookie Robert Ayers can give their pass rush a boost. |
Of course, if a defense can't stop the run, pass defense becomes even less important. Only the winless Detroit Lions allowed a greater yards per rush average than Denver last year.
There are some pass-rushers in this front seven. Ayers has a world of upside and may end up being a force at outside linebacker. My worries with him are that he never eclipsed 3.5 sacks in any of his college seasons and will be learning a new position -- as will just about everyone on this front seven. It also is conceivable that Ayers plays defensive end in this scheme, which would be another adjustment. Denver's defensive coaching staff is excellent, but in learning new techniques, surely there will be growing pains.
Elvis Dumervil is an excellent pass-rusher. He doesn't get the publicity that he deserves as an edge rusher, but he is technically sound, has a variety of moves that he sets up very well, has great initial quickness and knows how to use his lack of height to his advantage to get under blockers' pads and bend the edge. But teams routinely run at him, and he struggled to hold the point from his 4-3 defensive end position last year. Moving a little farther away from the ball might help, but I also have doubts about his ability in coverage along with his run support.
Jarvis Moss, a former first-round pick, is a wild card here. He has done little to justify his high draft position, but the new scheme could potentially revitalize his career at outside linebacker. Still, he doesn't appear fluid or loose enough in the hips to be effective with coverage responsibilities.
D.J. Williams is going to be a starting linebacker and there are other able bodies here as well, including newly signed Andra Davis, Boss Bailey and Wesley Woodyard. Davis played in the 3-4 with the Browns, but is a declining player. Still, he is tough, a good leader and a solid enough inside linebacker. Woodyard is smaller, but he is a natural playmaker and will get time as a sub package contributor. All of these players are better off on the inside in the 3-4, yet none are ideal.
The defensive line is in worse shape than the linebackers. It wouldn't shock me if Marcus Thomas became a high-end starter for the Broncos in the near future. Tim Crowder does have some upside as well and could be better suited for the odd front. But there isn't much else to get excited about. Nose tackle is the No. 1 problem; 3-4 defenses without a presence in the middle crumble. There doesn't appear to be a presence in the middle.
Granted, the Broncos have a new coaching staff and will be running a different defensive scheme. And the personnel changes could help their cause. And surely running back after running back will not fall to injury. Everyone knows that having a strong running game is a defense's best friend. But their front seven is still a glaring weakness. I just don't see enough good players up front.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.
Optimism, pessimism in the AFC West
Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
With free agency mostly in the books and the draft approaching, we take a look at three reasons for optimism and three reasons for pessimism for each of the AFC West teams.
Three reasons to be optimistic
- The safeties are better. Veteran free-agent signees Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill give instant improvement to one of the worst groups of safeties in the NFL last season.
- Mike Nolan should help. The former San Francisco head coach should improve a defense that has been awful for the past two years. Nolan is changing the team's scheme to a 3-4 defense.
- There are plenty of running backs. The Broncos signed veterans Correll Buckhalter, J.J. Arrington and LaMont Jordan. They all should play a role.
Three reasons to be pessimistic
- The Jay Cutler trade. This is not a good situation for anyone and it certainly is not the ideal way for new coach Josh McDaniels to begin his NFL head-coaching career.
- The Brandon Marshall situation may not be good. After another arrest on domestic violence charges, which were ultimately dropped, Marshall could be facing a league suspension.
- The defensive line hasn't improved. The unit isn't very strong and significant improvements have yet to be made. If Denver's defense is going to improve, the defensive front needs to improve.
Three reasons to be optimistic
- The new leadership. New general manager Scott Pioli is respected around the league and new coach Todd Haley has gotten good reviews.
- The Chiefs got their quarterback. Matt Cassel gives Kansas City a quarterback the team's leadership is comfortable with for the long term.
- Receiving depth. The signing of veteran Bobby Engram gives the Chiefs a good option in the receiving game. Haley's offense revolves around his receivers, so this could be a good move.
Three reasons to be pessimistic
- The Chiefs have done very little to improve their pass rush. Kansas City set an NFL record a year ago for fewest sacks in a season (10).
- Despite having about $50 million in salary-cap room, the Chiefs haven't added many impact players beyond Cassel, Engram and linebacker Mike Vrabel. Most of Kansas City's additions have been lesser-name, system players.
- There is uncertainty. It is still unknown if veterans Tony Gonzalez, Larry Johnson and Brian Waters will return.
Three reasons to be optimistic
- The stars have returned. The Raiders have re-signed cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and punter Shane Lechler to record contracts for their positions. Both were prospective free agents.
- The team made offensive line additions, signing tackle Khalif Barnes and trading for center Samson Satele to improve one of the team's weakest areas.
- The Raiders won their final two games under then-interim coach Tom Cable. The enthusiastic Cable has taken over on a permanent basis and has vowed to bring stability to the program.
Three reasons to be pessimistic
- There haven't been many big additions to the team. Other than keeping their own players and signing the two offensive linemen, there hasn't been much change for Oakland.
- There are still big receiver questions. The team will definitely need to draft a top receiving option.
- The defensive line needs improvement. This problem area has yet to be addressed.
Three reasons to be optimistic
- They have the best roster in the division. Even though San Diego didn't make many moves, it still has top talent.
- The running backs were kept. San Diego restructured the contract of Pro Bowl running back LaDainian Tomlinson and franchised backup Darren Sproles. The two can be a deadly pair.
- The Kevin Burnett signing. The usually free-agency shy Chargers did sign Burnett, an inside linebacker from Dallas. He is expected to help on third down.
Three reasons to be pessimistic
- The team needs a defensive end. Igor Olshansky signed with Dallas as a free agent and the team could use a replacement.
- A strong safety is needed. The team tried to sign Tampa Bay's Jermaine Phillips, but he re-signed with the Buccaneers. Safety will be an area of need in the draft.
- The offensive line. The Chargers still may be an offensive lineman, right tackle or guard away from having a solid blocking crew.
Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
The Broncos agreed to terms with Miami cornerback Andre Goodman Sunday evening, their ninth free agent acquisition. Goodman agreed to a five-year deal worth $25 million and a little more than $10 million in guarantees.
Goodman is the third new starter in the secondary and will join Champ Bailey at cornerback. The Broncos signed safeties Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill.
Goodman replaces salary cap causality Dre' Bly. Goodman had a fine season with Miami but he is 30. He is known as a good locker room presence and should be able to play alongside Bailey for a couple of seasons, at least.
The team is still working on trying to save the contract of running back J.J. Arrington and it is still talking to free agent Derrick Ward.
Meanwhile, Oakland guard Cooper Carlisle visit to Tampa Bay is still on and has been pushed back a few days. Oakland is still trying to re-sign him.
Here is a chilling story on Oakland linebacker Marquis Cooper who is missing at sea in Florida.
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.
