There is so much analysis and opinion out there regarding what the Denver Broncos need to do to improve over the offseason - most of it coming from analysts who watched little more than highlight reels of Broncos games. I tend to not put much faith in those observations. Instead, I look inward. I look to you, fellow Broncos fans who rabidly watch each and every game just like I do, to help me figure out what our greatest needs are heading into this offseason. Even there, opinions tend to vary greatly.
I think our first step after examining the season as a whole is to attempt to put ourselves ...
What could John Elway have gleaned from this season? There is much talk about Tim Tebow and his future with the Broncos, but I have to believe Elway saw the same thing in Tebow that most of the rest of us saw. John Fox was able to put what we all witnessed into two words: Competitive Greatness.
That is not to say Tebow is a polished quarterback and Elway has to know that as well. He probably also understands Tebow will be a work in progress next year too, no matter how much he improves. So how does a Vice President of Football Operations harness a raw talent like Tebow? By giving him a chance to unleash his competitive greatness as much as possible. Which means, keeping the game close for that trait in Tebow to take over.
John Elway will need to do this through building a great defense through the draft. The offense needs players too, but I think most of us realize that Tebow can make players around him much better than they are - ironic since Tebow still has a long way to go himself. Elway needs to put most of the draft focus on the defense. He can take a page out of his old friend Gary Kubiak's book. Take a look at how Houston has spent its first four draft picks since 2006:
| Houston Texans Draft History 2006-2011 | ||||
| Year | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 | Round 4 |
| 2006 | DE | LB | OT x2 | TE |
| 2007 | DT | N/A | WR | CB |
| 2008 | OT | N/A | CB & RB | LB |
| 2009 | LB | DE | C | CB |
| 2010 | CB | RB | DT | LB |
| 2011 | DE | LB & CB | N/A | CB |
---
The path to a great defense is through the top end of the draft. Five out of Six years, the Texans went defense in the first round. Again, all second round picks except for one were reserved for the defense. The third round seemed to be more about building the offense, but then it goes right back tot he defense in the fourth round. Gary Kubiak built one of the best defenses in football almost exclusively through the draft and I think it's a template that John Elway should attempt to duplicate.
It's hard to stay in tune with mock drafts this early in the game since every one of them will be crap once the free agency period begins. I won't jump into who I would love to see the Broncos sign or who I think they should sign as it has always been impossible to predict. What I will focus on, is the one player on the Broncos roster that I think should be priority number one to resign. That man is Eddie Royal.
What people tend to underrate with Royal is the threat he could pose in a Tim Tebow-led offense. He is perfect for the triple option plays. He is a great return man. He can play the slot receiver. All three of these things are reason enough to keep him on their own, but put them all together and Royal, in my mind, is the second most important wide receiver on the roster. My worry is that Eddie Royal wants to play in a system that is more pass heavy and if that is the case the chance of resigning him is slim.
All that said, I'd like to see the Broncos address their depth issues in free agency. Maybe land one high profile free agent, but for the most part pick up solid role players on both sides of the ball.
Perhaps it's the Bronco in me, but I have an affinity for middle linebackers. Especially, first round middle linebackers. I have been clamoring for one since Patrick Willis looked like a great replacement for Big Al Wilson back in 2007. Then just about every first round middle linebacker since. Hopefully John Elway agrees.
Of all the first round inside linebackers, it appears Luke Kuechly out of Boston College is the top prospect in this years draft, but I'm just not a believer he is the right fit for the mentality this Broncos team is trying to build. That leaves Dont'a Hightower out of Alabama and Vontaze Burfict out of Arizona State as the two other first round inside linebackers. I would probably be happy with either player, but I love the stigma of "The Intimidator" that Vontaze brings. He makes me think of Big Al or Ray Lewis. The fiery competitiveness and passion for the game is exactly what the heart of a defense needs.
If Elway goes with either one of those two middle linebackers, then the rest of the draft would be gravy for me personally, but I think grabbing a running back in the second round might be necessary if one isn't picked up in free agency. This sort of goes against my whole "draft defense" mantra above, but you'll notice that when Kubiak took over there were plenty of holes on that Houston Texan team that needed to be filled. The Broncos really began in that same situation before last years draft, so offense should be mixed in here and there.
Plus, Vontaze wears number 7, so how could I not give him the edge?
I think it is important to set realistic expectations for next season. This team is above average, but has plenty of work to do to make that next step. The focus next year again should be to take care of the the AFC West and to win your games at home. Playoff football is something this team should hunger for and play for, but we should all understand this team is two more drafts and two more years of experience away from Championship football. I can live with that, so long as John Elway continues to steer the Broncos ship in the right direction!
3 recs | 127 comments
Nice write up, Tim
I’d agree that Denver needs to shore up the defense so that Tebow & the offense has a chance to develop.
Brian Shrout - January 24, 2012
Burfict is not the answer to me
As an Alumni of Washington State and as a guy that watches a ton of Pac 12 Football I just don’t see it. The kid has some of that Ray Lewis insanity in him, but the one thing I’ve never seen Lewis do is completely disappear from a game. Burfict has some well documented attitude issues and when he gets pouty or gets popped in the mouth on the field he can be taken out of the equation completely.
At the college level there weren’t many people that could pop him in the mouth, but this year in Pullman against my Cougars he was a complete non-factor all game. I can just see him being a colossal bust given his attitude once he gets properly welcomed to the NFL.
cougdude50 - January 24, 2012
are you sure Burfict will be a first round pick? Some sites have him as a second or third round pick. What about Peter Konz c from Wisconsin i think he would be a nice first round pick would complete John Foxes power running OL imo
turbo champion - January 24, 2012
I think Walton is developing quite well and while I am always for drafting OL depth
PIcking a center that high would be a waste unless his name is Mangold.
DE_BroncoFan - January 24, 2012
What if her name was Mangold?
Holly Mangold
trumanj - January 24, 2012
at 370 she could probably play in the NFL
DE_BroncoFan - January 24, 2012
LMAO!!!!
She is a lil, and by lil I mean huge… cutie.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
I opted this earlier. Konz is rated top center and top 5 guards. Love this pick.
DLMyers - January 24, 2012
Love the idea of drafting Burfict
He’s been a favorite of mine for a long time. He’d definitely bring the nastiness that I think the defense needs. The PF penalties may be a problem, but I think that has more to do with his energy and competitiveness than anything. Hopefully EFX strongly consider drafting him if he’s available at 25.
jbbroncosfan27 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
IMO burfict is a Cox waiting to happen. Please no injury or character players.
DLMyers - January 24, 2012
Here's an interesting vid.
It’s a Doug Martin highlight video, but it’s interesting because it really showcases what a crappy player Vontaze Burfict is. It’s just one game, but notice how he gets swallowed up, takes bad angles and can’t shed. Then, once he finally gets Martin in his sights, he whiffs. That’s Vontaze Burfict, not the kid who smacked that QB on the rollout during his freshman year.
People talk about his athleticism. But Burfict can’t play! If you like athleticism, you should be pounding the table for Zach Brown.
I think Burfict will be available in the third round. Even then…
Agent Jerry Fletcher - January 24, 2012
"gets swallowed up, takes bad angles and can't shed"
Isn’t DJ Williams already on the roster?
ncm42 - January 24, 2012
It's funny cuz it's true. Sadly.
Agent Jerry Fletcher - January 25, 2012
I like the passion and power of Burfict but I don't know if he can be the leader that Al Wilson was or that Ray Lewis is.
It also seems like he is always going after the big hit. I’d like to be sure that this guy will wrap up consistently as well otherwise we may just have a nastier version of Joe Mays.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
I voted Keuchly
but I doubt he is around at 25.
Burfict scares me, in a bad/bust way, not in a Ray Lewis kind of way
I didn’t watch enough of Bama this year to get a good read on Hightower. He may have benefited greatly from the talent in front of him.
DE_BroncoFan - January 24, 2012
I personally would love to draft DE or DT in rd 1 if we can get a day 1 starter. I'd love to grab a CB in rd 2.
Bottom line we have to find 3 starters in this draft if our D is going to improve (unless we grab a couple big name FAs (Jason Jones, Dan Connor, Sammie Lee Hill)
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
We need to draft a DT first…we’ve been neglecting that position for years…we could have the best linebackers in the league, but it means nothing if the big boys up front can’t collapse the pocket or occupy blockers to let the backers roam free and make the tackle
BroncosFaN88 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I've always felt the best DT are drafted in the top end of the first round. Not at 25.
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
As long as we don't take Jerel Worthy at #25 I'll be happy
I think he’s a late second rounder because he’s not an impact player. Brockers could easily be available at #25 with Devon Still and Fletcher Cox coming off the board first and I think he’d be an amazing pick.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
there's an interesting variety later
I’m not as versed on the crop’s shape this time around but my impression was that there’s a lot of appropriate talent/positions in our range. Necessarily, when drafting later on, they won/t be considered the top talents, but that’s unavoidable. DT has potential as does CB. There’s no sense in ‘locking in’ to candidates since a BPA strategy (which we’ll use) can deliver any number of prospects. My philosophy is that it’s nice to know who’s out there. And expected picks should come from the candidates that fit our criteria in multiple ways— position, talent, scheme fit, etc.
Colinski - January 24, 2012
I am a strong BPA believer....
after suffering through Shanny’s “draft for need” strategy that netted so many catastrophe’s….
Just looking at the 25th position, I see lots of value in taking a MLB over a DT or CB. For whatever reason, I think there is less of a chance of a busted pick there this year. If Elway really really wants a DT, then he should trade up to get one. Leave the 20’s for RB, LB, and OG’s. ;-)
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
Coach Fox is well versed that drafting philosophy when he was in Carolina with GM Marty Hurdy...
One year when they were ready to pick, they couldn’t hardly believe their eyes that Center Ryan Kilil was still there at #57, so without batting an eye, they selected Kilil out of USC, there C t this day…
Read more here: http://www.heraldonline.com/2012/01/22/3680950/panthers-could-take-ingram-with.html#storylink=cpy
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
rarely do DTs start if drafted after the first 2 rounds. Even then they can take time to develop.
If we can grab an impact DT that can command double teams or collapse a pocket then I’m for it.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
Burfict can't control his anger
so I would have to say NO, this Quinton Coples seems really intriguing, there is some defensive tackle named Michigan State named Worthy who Sayre says is pretty good, we shall see, GO BRONCOS!!!
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
I would be ecstatic if Coples was there for us at 25 but I see no possible chance of it. He'll be gone in the top 15
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
sigh, so everyone likes him that much eh :(
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
Seems that way. As far as I can tell he's the consensus #1 pass rusher in the draft
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
The thing people complain about Burfict is his personal fouls.
A MLBer is surpose to set the tone for the D. We haven’t had an attitude sense Al Wilson. Is Nate Irving going to set that Attitude??? Who knows!!! Burfict looks like the second coming of Ray Lewis to me. Irving could be but Burfict would be.
Bron#1 Fan - January 24, 2012
From what I understand is that he toned down that kind of stuff this season.
Which was a big reason for a less than stellar year. It seems like he has a good attitude and is willing to tailor his play to fit the rules – a sign of maturity to me.
But you never know with people….BMarsh would be a good player/human being for a little while, then return to his usual self after he gets what he wants.
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
I believe Fox and Smith would get the best out of him
players love Foxy. I have to keep remembering as well, John Fox knows a thing or two about defense. So, if Allen goes, we may not be in as bad of shape as some of us think. It came out today that Dennis Allen was indeed the front runner in OAK.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
IMO if Allen to Oak then we lose our HC of 2014
DLMyers - January 24, 2012
Why would he be our HC in 2014? Why will Fox get fired? And if we are so bad that Fox gets fired do you really think we'll have a top 10 defense? So what makes Allen the guy?
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
I am not critiquing anyone
but when I visit message boards, such as this, it seems that fans could learn a lot from players, in regard to loving and trusting Coach Zorro. He is a great playoff coach and we’re lucky to have him, he’s not a self-adulating a-hole like my coworker or McDumbToolshed
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
True dat B-Father!!! True.... Dat!
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
I thought he was benched this season because of it.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
He didn't play against BoiseSt in the bowl game and he wasn't injured and even the sportscaster couldn't figure it out.
As a matter of fact, it was basically kept hush-hush from what I couldn’t find…
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
Good Stuff Tim, Rec'd
There is a lot of speculation on where EFX goes with that 25th pick. Most of us agree that it should be on the defensive side of the ball. After that, everyone is speculating on the the finer points. It’s my feeling we need to pick a player that is going to have the most immediate impact. That tells me it will probably be a player in the front seven, DT,DE, or Mike would be good bets. I’m not sold on another MLB because we have some youth there with Irving and Mohammed, but a day one starter there would probably have the most impact. DT is the way I would go, but I could also see EFX pick up a DE if he is a better player at our pick. Free Agency will be a big indicator of the direction they’ll go. It’s fun to speculate and play GM, but I can’t wait for more Broncos football!
CH74 - January 24, 2012
I think so too, unless one of the top CBs fall to us then all bets are off...
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
Watching Goody get toasted
Game in and game out is getting bothersome. If we can generate more pressure with the front four, we could mitigate that for a while longer though. Von without a cast and a season under his belt should be a big help there. Any Corner we draft, even if it is early is going to take time to get up to speed. Petersen this past season is a good example. Having Vaughn and Squid back in the lineup should shore up the secondary a bit.
My big concern on the defense was the ease in which teams ran on us when we were in the nickel and dime packages. Some of that stems from how light we went on the line in those packages. A solid 3 down DT that can stuff the run and get after the passer would be a god-send.
CH74 - January 24, 2012
Royal
A season ago, I was high on Royal, just thinking that it was some mixture of McDaniels and Orton that explained his disappearance. Now my opinion of Royal is lower. I think Royal is great, assuming you can a) get Royal the ball b) in open space.
The problem is, Royal’s weaknesses are such that it’s extremely difficult to put him in that situation. Returning a punt is fine because Royal gets to stay in one place, with no one around him. But, he doesn’t show ability to get separation on routes, and as strong and committed he looks to his running, it looks like he runs bad routes, too. He doesn’t run lazy routes, but I’ve seen him energetically pull up short of the sticks on third downs multiple times, for instance. He doesn’t seem particularly able to adjust to the ball in flight – he can catch a ball in traffic, like his great catch against Pittsburgh in the post-season, but those are going to be knocked away often, too.
So I don’t know what to do with him. I think what might be best, actually, is to convert him to a running back, like a Sproles type, while running lots of outlets, etc. The problem is, we’ve already got someone in Knowshon Moreno that is better than Royal at most of those skillsets – Moreno is a great pass blocker, and he’s always been rated very highly in catching the ball in space, plus he doesn’t drop many passes.
I dunno. I am pretty much thinking these days that Royal is a distraction – really tough to let go of, but one where after you let go of him, you realize that your offense is more productive.
tunesmith - January 24, 2012
Yes tunesmith
This is what Iv’e been hoping for with Royal. I watch a lot of Viking games up here and this is what they do with Harvin now. He has about 4 runs a game from the RB position.
Eddie doesn’t get separation and can’t catch in a crowd. We do need to re-sign him, but only if he wants to still be here. According to his body language, he doesn’t.
Digger24 - January 24, 2012
I think all of our receivers got bored with Tebow until Demaryius starting catching up...Royal looked pretty good vs. Pittsburgh...
Too versatile of a player to disguard unless he wants a big payday. He sure as heck doesn’t deserve that.
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
keep royal
Said elsewhere but Royal has great value on ST and as depth in our receiver corps. Rather let Willis go, sign a FA at wr, and keep Royal as. No. 4 wr. Odds are that DT or Decker will not start all 16 games due to injury.
bronco.fan - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Matthew Willis might not beat out Mark Dell when he returns.
Dell has Brandon Lloyd like skills, but isn’t afraid to get hit like Lloyd used to be…
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
keep royal
Said elsewhere but Royal has great value on ST and as depth in our receiver corps. Rather let Willis go, sign a FA at wr, and keep Royal as. No. 4 wr. Odds are that DT or Decker will not start all 16 games due to injury.
bronco.fan - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Yes Tim.... right on!!!
We need to keep stockpiling on defense… high and low end picks. If anything on offense is spent, I’d like to see a RB, O-Line depth, and maybe a shifty/speedy/gadget WR.
A lot of people are down or Burfict…. for anger issues and such, but I won’t hold violence (on the field of course) against a football player. As long as it doesn’t get consistently foolish like Suh, then it’s all good in my book. I didn’t even get mad a Von in the playoff loss… it showed me he cared. If Burfict is on the board when we pick, I think EFX takes a long, hard look at it. I’d be thrilled to upgrade Mays to a freak.
Some other players I’d prefer in the 1st include:
Devon Still (DT) ~ Lamar Miller (HB) ~ Fletcher Cox (DT) ~ Jerel Worthy (DT) ~ Mark Barron (SS) ~ Alshon Jeffrey (WR – if there’s no defender worth the pick) ~ Alfonso Dennard (CB).
2nd round:
Chris Polk (RB) ~ Alameda Ta’amu (NT) ~ Stephon Gilmore (CB) ~ David Wilson (RB) ~ Vinny Curry (DE) ~ Bruce Irvin (OLB/DE) ~ Jared Crick (DE/DT) ~ Janoris Jenkins (DB).
3rd Round:
Audie Cole (MLB) ~ Tony Dye (SS) ~ Jeff Fuller (WR) ~ Tommy Streeter (WR) ~ Bernard Pierce (RB) ~ Marvin McNutt (WR) ~ Bobby Massey (OT) ~ Shaun Prater (CB) ~ Kendall Reyes (DE/DT).
4th Round:
DaJohn Harris (DT) ~ Senio Kelemete (OG) ~ Marcus Forston (DT) ~ Donte Paige-Moss (DE/OLB) ~ Ryan Lindley (QB) ~ Isaiah Pead (RB) ~ Levy Adcock (OT).
Free Agents we should look at:
Dennis Dixon (QB) ~ Byron Leftwich (QB) ~ Mike Tolbert (RB/FB) ~ Danny Amendola (WR) ~ John Carlson (TE) ~ Visanthe Shiancoe (TE) ~ Carl Nicks (OG) ~ Evan Mathis (OG) ~ Dave Ball (DE) ~ Sammie Lee Hill (DT) ~ Amobi Okoye (DT) ~ Dan Conner (MLB) ~ London Fletcher (MLB) ~ Brandon Carr (CB) ~ Brent Grimes (CB) ~ Terrell Thomas (CB) ~ LaRon Landry (S) ~ Jim Leonhard (S).
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
That's a good list
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
I believe so
I’m always stubbornly expecting the Broncos to draft DT’s, and they never do. Could this be the year? You can’t ever go wrong when stocking (stacking) a front 7.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
In total agreement again
People give way to much credit to the linebackers and secondary when a defense is dominant but everything usually starts up front in the trenches. We already have the edge rushers we need in Dumervil and Miller; now we need a big run stuffing QB killing DT.
Dontari Poe would be my #1 choice.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
Can Poe get after the Quarterback?
If he can, then hellz yes! He would have Haloti Ngata like potential. I like a lot of the DT’s coming out this year, but I always seem to like all the DT’s that come out every year. I think that’s a sign of being a fan of a DT starved team, like we have for so many years before Bunk & Ty Warren came.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
He's not exactly a sack machine at 350lbs
Devon Still and Michael Brockers are better pass rushers but I think he’s better than Jerel Worthy or Brandon Thompson.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
Derek Wolfe and Fletcher Cox will probably be in the conversation by the time the Draft roles around. Those two would be a good upgrade also.
AvalancheRescueDog - January 24, 2012
I'm not as high on Fletcher Cox as some people
because he’s more of an edge rusher than a force to be reckoned with in the middle but I wouldn’t be disappointed if we picked him. Derek Wolfe is one of my favorite prospects in the late second round if we go with a guy like Lamar Miller or Janoris Jenkins in the first round.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
I'll take either one of those combos EfanJ
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
I read a scouting report on Poe that said he was light on his feet for his size...
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
He's a pretty classic two gapper at the NT for a 34
350+lb dudes who can move like Haloti come along once and never. It was who I thought we were trading up for in that draft.
Dontari Poe is not that guy.
Would love to see the chance taken on Janoris. In my opinion he is a better cover corner than Morris Claiborne, just smaller and with pot issues. But one of the smoothest corner I’ve seen in college.
Randall15 - January 24, 2012
Sounds to me like Mark Barron either has something to hide or doesn't want to risk injury before the Combines...
Sissy boy…
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
They said basically the same thing about Brent Grimes from ATL
He could have played in the playoffs, but opted not to so he wouldn’t ruin his contract opportunities elsewhere.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
if we get Shiancoe
I insist he not show his junk to the camera in the locker room http://www.nowpublic.com/sports/visanthe-shiancoe-exposes-his-penis-national-tv
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
OH NO!!!
I don’t really want to click on this link, but we both know it’s too late for that. Darn you BFather!!!
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
sorry :)
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
UMMMM bradfather
Earlier talking about porn and now posting it….
trumanj - January 24, 2012
The only MLB who will be available when we're on the clock is
Vontaze Burfict and he’s too raw to help us win next year. Lamar Miller, Michael Brockers, and Janoris Jenkins are the three prospects that intrigue me the most in the late 1st round.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
sometimes
future potential outweighs instant help.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
I actually agree with you
I think he’d be a solid pick but people have to realize he may not be a huge upgrade over Joe Mays for a couple years.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
which could be fine
IF a SS can step up and play like Dawk did. Ummm, that’s prolly not going to happen, is it. We need either our MLB or SS next year to help defend the run better. When Dawk went down, our D went with him (Von getting hurt didn’t help). You may be right about Burfict, so if he’s the pick, someone’s going to have to step it up… and I don’t mean pass rushers.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
It can but that is what Shanny often thought and it burned us. In rd 1 we have to have instant help. We can't keep missing on our 1st round picks (or 2nd for that matter)
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
You know as well as anybody Pale that any first rd pick HAS to be an impact player who will start from day-one...
EFX hit it out of the park in the their first draft together with Von Miller. He was a catalyst of this defenses success even with a broken hand for 1/4th of it. When we look at ‘impact’ player in this draft at the number select at I would guess a defensive tackle, linebacker or defensive end. We still have time to develop a CB from later in the draft. Having to use Miller up at the LOS limited the defense and playing rookie Safeties didn’t help. Get a solid Safety in FA and let the young ones develop and groom a CB for Champ’s position. Goodman’s position can be upgraded as well in FA.
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
Yes, they should bfree
but we’re not talking about the #2 overall here…. we (blessedly) made it to the tournament and won a game. I think a low 1st rounder should succeed (somewhat at least) from the get go, but it’s also a place to collect talent…. even if that talent takes a little while to develop. But know this, I’m not arguing. In a perfect world, a 1st rounder should play like a 1st rounder, day one.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
Totally agree
but I’d go further. Outside those top 10, it is completely OK if the rookie doesn’t even play much in the 1st year. Draft for need and inevitably a team will lean towards a guy with less upside who is ready to start. Draft BPA and a team will be able to develop the player into his highest upside
yibberat - January 24, 2012
I think Brocker's could fit both future and instant help.
Technically raw, but athletically gifted at his size.
Or Janoris Jenkins. After all Champ has shown that a great cover corner can contribute for a long time. And on the field Janoris was ready after his sophomore year. Let the wayward one learn from the Greatest one.
Randall15 - January 24, 2012
Can any of these MIKE prospects realistically be counted on in pass coverage?
The biggest hole in the middle of our defense is at MIKE, but I think one of the things that the team is missing is someone that can drop into that middle zone and do a good job of covering anyone who enters their territory. The ability to man up and cover a TE or RB for at least 3 seconds or so would be outstanding, too.
I’d like a terror in blitzes and run support, but I think I’d prefer to see the defense stop getting burned on short routes over the middle first. I know this isn’t a real Tampa-2 defense, but it’s still a very desirable trait.
BroncosBassist - January 24, 2012
Out of the top 3 I mentioned, Vontaze is the fastest.
I like Walterfootball.com and this is what they have to save about him:
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
@Tim Lynch...nice topic, well posted
Remember that you heard it here first;
WITH THE 25TH PICK OF THE 2012 DRAFT, THE (team name) etc etc
meaning that Denver has traded down. LOVE IT.
IMO this would benefit Broncos in second year of EFX. Trade #25 to a top 10 team for a #2 and #3. This would give Denver 4 players in the top 60.
Would love to get Jared Crick (DE/DT) and Stephon Gilmore (CB) in the second
then get Bernard Pierce (RB) and Kendall Reyes (DE/DT) in the third.
DLMyers - January 24, 2012
Bro
that sounds heavenly!!!
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
I’ve wanted Burfict since I first saw a highlight clip someone posted on here a few months ago. Guy looks like a fire-breathing monster thing… Yes please. It became more apparent as the season went on that our biggest concerns on D were of course the secondary, and then our lack of an impact guy in the middle. Joe Mays is great depth, but not a starter, IMO.
I vote Burfict, and then Gillmore in the second if he’s still there somehow.
aLuffabo - January 24, 2012
Nice article Tim
I will say that in the Houston example their defense didn’t actually become great until Wade Phillips arrived. Great talent isn’t going to change much without a great coach, especially coordinators. Take Dick L. out of Pittsburgh or Phillips out of Houston or any other great DC away from talent, results drop. Denver consistently losses quality DC’s, we can’t keep letting that happen. A great DC makes good talent great, and right now we need to have a good DC for our defense to take that next step. We have to keep in mind, Kubiak didn’t make that defense great, Phillips did, take him away and you are left with the bottom tier defense that Houston had before he arrived. Kubiak drafted talent, but it was largely wasted till the right DC came in and then things came together. Losing Allen might be the reverse of the step Houston took this past off-season unless we can bring in a good DC.
I totally agree in drafting defense in this draft, though I’d rather stick with Mays and Irving next season and draft a 1st round DT. If Mays and/or Irving struggle in 2012, then we draft a 1st round MLB. Though as long as we draft defense in the 1st round (besides DE) I won’t complain.
Good article again Tim.
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
I'll take any position other than DT.
Too many busts and too long to develop….so its not worth it unless its a Top 10 pick.
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
I'd disagree there Tim
DT is a safe position, especially with this draft class but also just look at recent drafts. When you look at MLB’s and DT’s taken around our draft spot, it’s clear both are pretty equal in their risk.
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
I can think of several MLB in the mid 20's that worked out.
I can’t think of any DT…
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
There are plenty of both
But just a few DT’s from the past few years:
- Muhammad Wilkerson
- Brian Price
- Alan Branch
- Mike Peterson
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
Synonymous with
Al Wilson
Ray Lewis
Keith Bullock
Nick Barnett
Clay Matthews
to name a few from the last few years… :)
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
Exactly, you can find talent at both positions
Where’s the issue again?
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
I prefer MLB's. lol
This defense will not have a true identity until there is a field general in the heart of the D.
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
Amen Tim
PaleHorse78 - January 25, 2012
Those of you who voted Burflict
are seriously barking up the wrong tree.
You’re talking about a seriously immature kid who can’t control his temper, was benched at the end of the year, and has trouble in pass coverage.
Yes, he is a play maker and a vicious hitter, but the guy is a huge Boom or Bust candidate.
Nick Cast - January 24, 2012
he can't control his temper, seriously immature
sounds like Tony Mandarich to me, STAY AWAY
the new Bradfather - January 24, 2012
When opposing teams know that they will use it against him...
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
It speaks volumes about the kid when teams like the Ravens and Giants are looking at him.
Those are the kind of defenses we’re trying to emulate. The fact that he’s been talked about as the next Ray Lewis is enough for me to want him.
Would you pass on Dre Kirkpatrick or Janoris Jenkins because of their immaturity? I wouldn’t
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
My thoughts exactly. I think it’s definitely well worth the risk.
jbbroncosfan27 - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The Giants have a hard nose coach like Tom Coughlin who won’t put up with Burflict’s crap.
The Ravens have one of the most respected leaders in the NFL in Ray Lewis and Ed Reed.
The Broncos don’t have a hard nosed coach not a veteran locker room.
Nick Cast - January 24, 2012
I don't know about that
Coach Fox got a lot out of a rag tag group of no names (other than Doom, Miller, DJ, and Champ) and I think he could easily develop a player like Burfict. I’ve already said I would rather we get a DT or CB with our 1st round pick but I think Burfict will be a badass for whoever gets him.
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
I disagree
Burflict needs to be drafted into the perfect situation or else he is going to fail. He needs a mentor like Ray Lewis or a coach like Tom Coughlin or Mike Tomlin
Nick Cast - January 24, 2012
Or John Fox. :)
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
Fox doesn’t rub me as the “I don’t take crap from any player no matter how good you are” kind of coach that Coughlin, Tomlin or Belicheck are.
Nick Cast - January 24, 2012
Tell that to Rahim Moore.
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
Totally different circumstances
Moore was messing up on the field so he was benched.
Burflict is a character problem.
Big difference in how to handle those two situations.
Nick Cast - January 24, 2012
Quietness can be a valuable instrument of maturation and learning one's role in life...
Last year EFX did indeed make an attempt to right the rudder at ILB with Nate Irving. There were concerns about his devastating injuries he sustained in his vehicle accident in July of 2009, so he fell off of many teams drafts boards. Former head coach Bill Parcells liked the kid and said he would be on anybodies board in the late 1st to early 2nd round. The Broncos’ medical staff found him phyically sound and fit to play, so when they saw him still sitting there at the 67th pick of the 3rd round they jumped at the Mike so to speak…
After spending a year (2009) in rehab he came back nearly as strong as before his fateful crash…
So before we all start feeling that our ILBer position still needs attention just remember this…Irving quietly played on special teams learning and gleaning from the veteran players how to play football in the NFL. Without the full offseason of hands on training and position teaching the Broncos had no other choice but to go with the veteran Joe Mays…LBer coach Richard Smith had this to say:
Now, I’ll leave you with this and hope this offseason is one of the best ever for the Broncos…Smith talking about our new Mike…
No finer quality of a man is when he quietly learns his role in life before shouting from the rooftops!
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
Good post but he still couldnt' beat out Joe "I take bad angles and don't wrap up" Mays.
I like Irving. I hope this offseason he can prove to be the answer at MLB but just because I hope that doesn’t mean I go into camp with just him and Mays to compete.
If I am a coach or FO man I am looking at competition for him because I’ve already decided that Mays is a liability in the middle. I am either going to bring in a FA to compete (Dan Connor – who Fox is familiar with) or draft a MLB to compete. Even if he is the answer we still need competition for him. If Kuechly is available at 25 I am drafting him (unless Coples or the best Pass rusher is available). It doesn’t mean I don’t want Irving to succeed. This isn’t a case of Irving playing behind a Jon Beason, Brian Urlacher or Ray Lewis. This is a case of Irving playing behind Joe Mays. Obviously that is just my opinion.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
The only thing I can imagine... other than Irving just flat out sucking
is the staff decided to red shirt him, due to the MLB position having so much responsibility. It seems that fans have a bad tendency of overvaluing their own guys (Lance Ball, Matt Willis, Eddie Royal – I’m guilty of it too), so if you really think about it, there’s no guarantee a 3rd round LB is going to, or supposed to be the starter.
Defenses need depth as well. When Foxy took over this team, we had DJ and crickets chirping at LB (unless you count Woodyard and Haggan, which brings me back to the whole overvaluing thing). We needed a couple starters and depth….. so….. Nate Irving is no sure shot to be a starting Mike Backer in this league.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
The way I see Richard Smith's interview is that they wanted the veteran over the rookie...
“Already earned his stripes” is what Smith said of Mays…There already enough youth playing to worry about another one. What’s unique about a player like Von Miller starting right away is, he had one mission…Get to the quarterback at all costs. And, that hurt him some when opposing teams began running that way on downs that looked like passing plays. He was benched for it, to sort out his role. Even Orlando Franklin struggled at first and had to be babysitted by Kuper, but he made strides during the season. Quinton Carter had to start for BDawk and struggled baddly until it started to click with him. He still has a long way to go. Starting Nate Irving when the veteran was available was never going to be, not unless Mays got hurt of course, and even then WW would have probably played the bulk of it. Maturity comes in many shapes and forms, and I wouldn’t be impatient with our future ILBer until EFX show us different…
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
Well Fox showed he was willing to bench a veteran in favor of a rookie if said veteran wasn't performing.
Case in point…Kyle Orton.
If there was a better CB I wouldn’t be surprised if Goody got replaced. I can’t think of another position on our team where we had a better rookie or young player that didn’t get to play except maybe MLB. Or maybe he just wasn’t better than Mays. Will he be? Hopefully we’ll find out next year but I don’t want to go into camp with just Mays and Irving again.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
I would be happy with Hightower, Burfict, or Kuechly. If all 3 are available when we pick, I would take Kuechly. He is a absolute sure tackler with instincts and intelligence that make up for any limitations he has athletically. Hightower is my 2nd choice because he is a monster in the run game and is surprisingly quick for a ILB of his size. Burfict seems like a wild card to me. He will either be a home run or a complete failure. I think his future in the NFL will depend on whether or not he is on a team with an established defensive leader like Ray Lewis or Dawkins. He should not be allowed to develop on his own. If Dawkins returns I would be more okay with him.
As for other 1st round MLB’s, what about drafting Zach Brown and moving him to MLB? Fox did take Beason in the 1st who was a OLB with a similar build and skill set and moved him to MLB. Just a thought. Also I am becoming more and more intrigued with the idea of CB Chase Minnifield in the 1st. I know it may be a reach but the kid looks like the real deal to me.
AvalancheRescueDog - January 24, 2012
I would trade down if we can
but if we can’t take Minnifield there anyway. Unless of course we trade up for Claiborne or Kirkpatrick.
Digger24 - January 24, 2012
I wonder how Brown would handle the switch. If he can handle the load of leading the D and getting them set up right then I don't see why not. I wouldn't be opposed to if if Fox and co think he can be successful there.
BroncoMath101 - January 24, 2012
Ya thats pretty much how I view it also. My only concern with Brown at MLB is his troubles at shedding blockers well. But Beason did have the same knock against him coming out of college too. Like you said, It all depends on how Fox sees it.
AvalancheRescueDog - January 24, 2012
If we can get a big body that commands double teams then our LBs might not have as many problems shedding blocks as they won't have to deal with as many OLmen down field.
BroncoMath101 - January 25, 2012
I say this though, if EFX was to get one $$$$$ free agent I would hope that player would be Defensive End Mario Williams, Houston Texans.
He is one of the best DEs in the league and would upgrade our defense from day one. But, he will cost some. The rest of FA signings can be for depth like you say and not too much in spending. Building through the draft is the best thing for any team to do if they do it wisely and not get beside themselves. Too me, if EFX choose Burfict then I’m fine with as they are telling that they aren’t satified with Nate Irving’s development and future. ILBer is one ot more important positions and very difficult to fill with the right player.
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
According to Wade Phillips
Resigning Mario Williams is his personal goal this off-season and is a top priority for Kubiak. I’d love for him to come here, he’s a fantastic talent, but he wants to stay, they want him to stay, it would take massively overpaying him for him to leave a team he wants to play for.
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
Yeah.
Haynesworth kind of money. It ain’t happening.
Digger24 - January 24, 2012
no one's getting Super Mario
except the Texans. You don’t let that go… not even if he’s 35.
PaleHorse78 - January 24, 2012
Agreed, add in he's a hero to the Texans
Their first drafted super star, he’s not going anywhere.
Topher Doll - January 24, 2012
I'm going to vote "other"
I can easily see Fox going after Dan Connor. He was stuck behind Jon Beason and was a stud at Penn State. Also Fox tried going after Charles Johnson and Charles Johnson last year. So it makes sense that he’d go after another player from the panthers.
tiderfootball09 - January 24, 2012
Like I said...Free Agency will make most mock drafts crap - including my pick here today. lol
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
I know, I was just offering a name lol.
tiderfootball09 - January 24, 2012
A popular one at that.
Does anyone consider the fact that Carolina values Connor immensely. He was called on to play for Beason each of the last two seasons.I assume they will re-sign him.
Digger24 - January 24, 2012
If we go LB in the first round again I'm gonna vomit
There is a slew of LB’s available who need time to adjust to the NFL and that is precisely who we should be targeting in the draft. Putting our defense in the hands of a rookie is a colossal mistake. If we need a starting MLB (and I think we do), then we go veteran/FA for that. Period.
We need to draft by weight people. 1st round should be the biggest ugliest guy. 2nd round should be almost as big but even uglier
yibberat - January 24, 2012
Sounds like a plan
Dontari Poe in the 1st and Derek Wolfe in the 2nd :)
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
I have a feeling Derek Wolfe will fall like a ton of bricks after the Combines and may be around in the 4th or early 5th.
Drafting Wolfe in the 2nd wouldn’t be a good idea imo…But in the 4th through 5th, heck ya…
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
I might be overvaluing him a bit
But I like how he plays the game
ElwayFanJ - January 24, 2012
Me too, I watched a couple of his games and he has a continuos motor...
bfree2bronc - January 24, 2012
How about Sloth from the Goonies?
AvalancheRescueDog - January 24, 2012
He's used up his eligibility.
Agent Jerry Fletcher - January 24, 2012
I heard he
had plastic surgery and changed his name to The Rock.
idahobronc - January 24, 2012
burfcet
is a headcase d high tower would do great for us wouild give us a top 5 LB CORE
j-man - January 24, 2012
I'm down with either. :)
Tim Lynch - January 24, 2012
I disagree one both counts
I have said on other posts I think Burfict is either a star or out of the league within a year or two and the Broncos are not in the position to go for a guy like that. Still lots of holes to fill on this team and too often taken 1st round picks who havent made it therefore need to get a guy who doesnt have those concerns.
FA I dont mind if Royal sticks around especially if they feel they can use him more effectively. However Bunkley and Prater have to be the two guys which the FO make sure they sign. This season they were two of the best players not just on the team but in the league at what they do.
SteveUK - January 25, 2012
You must Login with your SB Nation account and be a member of Mile High Report to post a comment.