Denver dismisses troubled Henry without meeting
By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Monday, June 2, 2008
George Kochaniec Jr. / The Rocky
Head man speaks Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan takes questions from the media after Monday's practice. In a statement, Shanahan addressed the topic of the team releasing injured - and embattled - running back Travis Henry. "Although Travis has the ability to be one of the top running backs in the NFL, we have to make decisions that are in the best interests of our organization and its goal of winning a Super Bowl," Shanahan said.
Joe Mahoney / The Rocky/2007
Travis Henry rushed for 128 yards against the Raiders in the second game of the 2007 season, but his production soon fell off.
Are the Broncos better off without Travis Henry?
ENGLEWOOD — Call it one and done.
Yes, call it one highly disappointing season, followed by an even more disappointing offseason, and running back Travis Henry's troubled one-year stint with the Broncos officially ended Monday when the veteran running back was released.
He apparently so infuriated team brass, he was not even given a face-to-face meeting before being shown the door.
"We have certain expectations about the way we do things," Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said. "He didn't meet those. That's it. So this is the way we're going to go."
Henry was not at the Broncos' Dove Valley complex Monday, and Shanahan said he did not meet with the running back before releasing him.
"I haven't told him, I just released him. I haven't talked to him," Shanahan said after the team's workout.
Henry had missed much of the team's passing camp the past two weeks because of a hamstring injury, and his attendance at the team's offseason functions was privately said to have been spotty at best.
Asked if Henry had not shown up Monday - the Broncos are scheduled for a team camp four days this week and four days next week - Shanahan said, "I think what I said says it all. He showed up last week, and we made a decision."
Henry could not be reached for comment. His agent, Hadley Engelhard, was out of the country and could not immediately be reached.
Henry missed four games of the 2007 season because of a rib injury and a partially torn posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. After opening the season with at least 128 yards rushing in three of his first four games in a Broncos uniform, Henry did not rush for more than 65 yards in any game the remainder of the season and finished with 691.
He had only four carries over the Broncos' final two games.
"We're looking for guys who do the little things the right way, and if you don't do the little things the right way, you're not going to be with the organization," Shanahan said. " . . . And he's not going to be with us."
Henry also came with plenty of off-the-field baggage that included revelations in court documents in Georgia last season that he had fathered nine children by nine women and his battle, and eventual victory, in an appeal hearing with the NFL over what had been characterized as a positive drug test.
Shanahan had been one of Henry's most vocal supporters during the dispute with the NFL and was even fined $25,000 by the league for some remarks he made in the player's defense. But after going through the first part of the offseason conditioning program and the passing camp in May, Shanahan decided he had seen enough.
"I think our players expected it, I don't think it surprised them," Shanahan said of Henry's release. "He's an excellent running back, but to do the things, (to) go where we want to go, everybody's got to be going the right direction. (He's) just too inconsistent as a person, and if you're inconsistent as a person you're usually not going to win championships."
Because Henry already had surrendered a $6 million option bonus earlier this year in a contract renegotiation, the Broncos' hit against the salary cap for Henry's release is expected to be in the $4.8 million range.
And because they released Henry after June 1, the Broncos can split that total between the '08 and '09 seasons.
"I believe in a second chance," Shanahan said. " . . . That's not the case here. You give guys chances and they don't take advantage of them and he's not with us anymore."
Henry's exit also pushes Michael Pittman - the 11-year veteran was signed to a one-year deal last week - Selvin Young, Andre Hall and rookie Ryan Torain up the depth chart. Of the four, the 228-pound Pittman is the only one who has carried the ball more than 200 times in an NFL season.
Shanahan has openly questioned the ability of Young (207 pounds) and Hall (212) to hold up physically as potential every- down backs, and Torain is coming off a serious foot injury that kept him out of six games last season at Arizona State University.
But Pittman said he believed Henry's release was an opportunity for the remaining backs.
"I know my intention every year is to start," Pittman said. "You compete to come in first. You never compete to come in second. We've got a lot of hungry guys here and we're all competing, but I'd like to be the guy.
"It's one less back here, and the competition is open. Nothing is written in cement now. I'm going to press to be the starter. Selvin Young is going to press to be the starter. Andre Hall, the same thing.
"I believe (the Broncos will) put the best man out on the football field. And I do believe that's me. I've been there, I've done it, I've played in the Super Bowl, I've played on a championship team. But we've got hungry guys, and they are going to play the best guy."
Said Shanahan: "I feel very good about it. . . . We've got a lot of talent. I'm excited about the people that we have."
INJURY REPORT: Players who did not participate in Monday's practice were Chad Mustard, out the next 8-10 weeks after surgery to repair a torn hamstring; wide receiver Brandon Marshall (arm); and tight end Tony Scheffler (foot).
Marshall was on the field for conditioning work as he continued his return from offseason surgery to repair a gash in his forearm.
LUG THE ROCK
With Travis Henry's release, here's who remains at running back for the Broncos:
Player . . . . Age . . . . The lowdown
Michael Pittman . . . . 32 . . . . Proven, tough and durable but will turn 33 in August.
Selvin Young . . . . 24 . . . . Two 100-yard games in 2007; coach Mike Shanahanhas questioned his ability to take down-to-downpounding at 207 pounds.
Andre Hall . . . . 25 . . . . Averaged 4.9 yards per carry in limited work (44 carries) in 2007.
Ryan Torain . . . . 21 . . . . The 222-pound rookie missed six games at Arizona State in 2007 with a foot injury.
Mike Bell . . . . 25 . . . . Had 677 yards as a rookie in 2006 but moved to fullback in 2007.
Cecil Sapp . . . . 29 . . . . Veteran hasn't had more than 18 carries in a season.
Anthony Alridge . . . . 24 . . . . Hyper-speed rookie is expected to be a third-down back if he makes the roster.
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June 2, 2008
10:19 a.m.
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incognitoboy writes:
buh-bye travis. it's been real. thanks for the efforts you gave while you were here.
now go fix yourself before it's REALLY too late.
June 2, 2008
10:26 a.m.
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jugdish writes:
Travis Henry cut. No surprise there. Saw this one coming. Now let's see if they go out and sign ex-Lions RB Kevin Jones. If Broncos give him time to heal, he could be a steal. I know the Patriots are interested in inking him.
June 2, 2008
10:27 a.m.
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R8R_H8R writes:
OUTSTANDING! This guy is a jerk. 9 kids? What a S.O.B. Does he ever stop to think about the lives of those kids, having no dad? No, because he thinks with the wrong head. GROW UP jerk. He admitted himself that he just loves the "bling". .....GAWD! I HATE that attitude. Makes me puke. 'Maybe' he's not as talented, but I'd rather have Mike Bell be the featured back each and every time. A guy who knows how good he's got it, appreciates the fact that he plays a game for a living, and isn't a complete moron spending the money on crap! instead of his 9 kids. Good bye and good riddance! Travis Henry, as a person, makes me sick and I dont want that type of person as a Denver Bronco. I cant root for that.
June 2, 2008
10:42 a.m.
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Who_Me writes:
How about them Rockies?
June 2, 2008
10:50 a.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
Henry has a lot more talent than Bell, so for on the field performance, Bell isn't the one that should be on the field for each and every play. Bell, Hall and Young aren't the answer...... they're not every down backs. The Broncos have Pittman, but he's not the solution for the top spot, especially if there's any plans on him returning kicks. For the first time since Shanahan's been here, starting with Davis, the backfield looks sorry. Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem at all with them cutting Henry, I knew it was going to happen at some point. But I thought they'd have something in place beforehand.
Question is, now what at running back for 2008? I think the offensive line will produce at a much higher level than last year but the running game will get less yards.... the way things look right now. There comes a time where drafting a back late or signing one as a free agent isn't the way to improve that part of the offense, not matter how much success or what level of success has come from it in the distant past.
The rest of the AFC West has studs starting at running back and the Broncos have duds! Bummer.
June 2, 2008
10:59 a.m.
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DJRMTNSPF writes:
Shanahan is a good coach but a terrible GM. Time for him and the Broncos to realize it.
June 2, 2008
11:01 a.m.
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SteveC writes:
See ya'. While they might miss him on the field, the off the filed issues aren't worth it. It's time to bring in quality people. Enough with the potentially good players who are crap off the field.
June 2, 2008
11:03 a.m.
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Orange_Crush18 writes:
You're right Cwillyrun, Blah Blah blah, the broncos have duds - that's why we are always in the top ten year in rushing year out. I believe we were in the top 5 last year (with that "dud" Selvin Young. Get a grip, the ruinning game in Denver will always beone of the best in the league.
June 2, 2008
11:15 a.m.
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Orange_Crush18 writes:
correction on my post - Broncos were in the top 10 last year (at #9) not top 5. But I believe they have one of the longest streaks of being in the top 10.
June 2, 2008
11:16 a.m.
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BroncoRick69 writes:
Agreed. It's not very smart to label our running backs "duds" at the moment. One of them will be leading the league in rushing this season. We have a much-improved offensive line. Adding Clady alone will make everyone else on that line better. It will also dramatically improve our running game. The talent among our running backs, as far as I can tell is at a fairly high level. Selvin Young is great, and has put on weight over the off-season to enable his body for the punishment of 25-30 carries a game. We have Andre Hall, who can spell Selvin Young. Andre Hall is the fastest player on the team, bar none. And then we have Pittman and the others. Someone will step up and produce. It happens year in, and year out.
June 2, 2008
11:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
NJBroncosFan writes:
Kinda wish they never traded Tatum Bell, yea the trade for Bly was a good one, plus Bly and Champ are one hell of a tandem but Tatum Bell could take a run to the house any given down, that kid had some speed. The Broncos sould try to trade for the Vikings Chester Taylor. He had a terrific season before the arrival of Adrian Peterson.
June 2, 2008
11:26 a.m.
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beeman writes:
bye bye henry and now and join the raiders oh I meant the faders and join the loser team with another loser walker!
June 2, 2008
11:27 a.m.
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reddog writes:
I was waitin and hopin for this!
June 2, 2008
11:37 a.m.
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Prism writes:
Bell had to go. He laid the ball down two many times. Yes he could run and make moves but you can't lay that ball down on the ground like he did. That's the only reason he's gone.
June 2, 2008
11:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cwillyrun1 writes:
Hey, I'm as big of a Broncos fan as anyone, but I'm a realist.
crush18, do the Broncos have those backs on their roster that have put the numbers up year in and year out? No! No TD, no Mike Anderson, no Clinton Portis, nobody. If it was so easy for anyone to step in, as some people like to think, why don't the Broncos just sign a bunch of guys for the league minimum, get those 1,000+ yards some think are easy to come by, and spend the big money elsewhere? I can remember two or three years ago some fans said the offensive line would always be one of the best, but last year taught those fans that nothing is continually a given. Anyway, they could still be in the top 10 rushing, but if it's the top 10 in rushing like what the Broncos got from the Bell's a few years ago, it looks good between the 20's but is like a wet paper bag in the red zone.
Rick69, are you serious when you claim a Bronco will lead the league in rushing? WHO?? I mean, come on, be real here. That and the comment that Selvin Young is "great" (and how do you form that opinion??) are too funny.
June 2, 2008
12:03 p.m.
Suggest removal
Disgusted_in_Denver writes:
The first thing that I thought when I heard of this was, Shanny is an idiot. Who did not see this coming when they inked him last offseason? The guy was obviously not a "character guy" as Mikey likes to say so WTF do you sign him and for that money? I'm not even angry with Henry, I did not expect anything different from that morally clueless individual. Please, please someone fire Shanny the GM, he is clueless!!!!!!
June 2, 2008
12:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
Orange_Crush18 writes:
Here is a breakdown since 2000
2007 - 9th in NFL (Henry/Young)
2006 - 8th in NFL (Bell/Bell)
2005 - 2nd in NFL (Anderson/Bell)
2004 - 4th in NFL (Droughns/Griffin)
2003 - 2nd in NFL (Portis/Grffin)
2002 - 5th in NFL (Portis/Anderson)
2001 - 10th in NFL (Davis/Anderson)
2000 - 3rd in NFL (Anderson/Davis)
We'll be fine...
June 2, 2008
12:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
incognitoboy writes:
yo, cwillyrun-
we have an EXCELLENT stable of young backs (young,torain,bell, alridge) and all you need to do is sit back and watch bobby turner cut the 'rocks' into 'gems'.
if peyton hillis can become the howard griffith-style fb i think he is, and the line stays HEALTHY (key) we now have TOO many weapons....
such a problem to have.
June 2, 2008
12:10 p.m.
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jacka writes:
Good move
June 2, 2008
12:21 p.m.
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reddog writes:
How's he gonna pay for those 9 kids now?
June 2, 2008
12:35 p.m.
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meatwad writes:
That's what i wanna see. If that fullback we got is any good. I hear good things, but can't believe it til you see it. If he is and Clady is decent than we'll be damn good...if not we'll be fine.
June 2, 2008
12:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
Bronco6 writes:
GREAT! MOVE! I LOVE It! Shanny for President!
June 2, 2008
12:40 p.m.
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R8R_H8R writes:
The Offensive Line is in transition. From a shifting run-block scheme dominant line, to now, focus more on Pass Protection. The Bronc's line in the past has been awful at Pass Protection & I'm glad to see the shift. But now more than ever, they need to find a dominant running back. They will no longer be able to plug anybody and everybody in at running back, and get great production.
June 2, 2008
12:42 p.m.
Suggest removal
BroncoRick69 writes:
a 5.2 Yard-per-carry average makes a running back great, Cwillyrun1. Try to post something with some substance instead of ripping others' posts.
June 2, 2008
12:45 p.m.
Suggest removal
myerda00 writes:
I love these Shanahan haters. They can go back to Okeylan or Diego.
First off shanahan does NOT make an RB decisions without input from Bobby Turner. He IS the RB man.
No Jones or Taylor or any other old injury prone back. Let these kids play.
Thanks Shanahan !!!!!
June 2, 2008
12:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
BroncoRick69 writes:
Maybe we should just let Cwillyrun1 inform Mike Shanahan about what he should do with the running back situation lol. Since he is such a realist and all.
June 2, 2008
1:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
Cwillyrun1 writes:
rick69....... that was the dumbest thing I've read yet. Averaging 5.2 ypc doesn't equate to great! Take out that 9.2 yards per carry against KC in week 14 and that average drops to 4.6 ypc for the rest of the season. Great is a term reserved for players like Tomlinson, Peterson and so on, not for a back that averaged a little over 48 yards per game. I bet you thought Bubby Brister was great, and Brian Griese since he broke Elway's passing yards mark in a season. While you're at it, why don't you annoint Mike Anderson as a future hall of famer. Try this for a number..... 1 TD all season for Young. How is that "great"?
crush18 can bring up the ghosts of past seasons, but crush, tell us how your vision ends? If the Broncos get back to where they were rushing the ball, I'll be the first to admit I was wrong. But your speculating about the running game this coming season doesn't mean it's fact. When I state the Broncos don't have a proven running back, it's because they don't. You can FEEL good about what they have, so go with your feelings. I'll go with what's the truth at this time.
The post by R8R_H8R at 12:40 is right, the Broncos can't continue to plug anybody in and get great production.
June 2, 2008
1:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
ColetteDD2 writes:
Henry got released because he didn't participate in pre-season workouts. Short of being a hall of famer player Shanahan expects players there, working and doesn't tolerate no-shows/excuses (Remember Maurice Clarett's short stay?). Henry's off-field issues and attitude made this decision a no-brainer.
Anything interfering with winning a Super Bowl won't be tolerated is the clear sub-text. The focus and tone are both good. Whether Shanahan's players have the talent, energy and hunger to get there and win is another matter all together.
Colette Duranleau, Denver, CO
June 2, 2008
1:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
denmex writes:
greate breakdown Orange_Crush18 but fien is not enogh to be a contender and is not enogh too meke shany ofense work.
the problem is that travis does have a lot off the filed issues, but who cares about does issues when u need a first down or something like that.
the rest of the backfiled has greate caracter but they have a lot on the filed issues, young gets injured very often, bell fumbles very often, torian.... well we dont know a thing about torian exept he is coming from an injure, and pitman well he is older than terrel davis. my point is thet shanahan could see this coming and draft a rb or get one on the fa market now is too late and the broncos backfiled looks weaker than ever.
lets get chestetr tylor from min or maby alexander, the thing is that this is not a good news not for the broncos not for the fans and not for # 20.
June 2, 2008
1:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
MRSTTYLER writes:
WOW WELL GO BE A FATHER NOW.
June 2, 2008
1:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
"Henry, signed to a five-year, $22.5 million free-agent contract on March 5, 2007, rushed for 691 yards on 167 carries (a 4.1-yard average) with four touchdowns in 12 games (seven starts) during his only season with the team."
I condensed the important info here: 691 yards during his only season with the team.
That ain't gonna cut it. Running backs are a dime a dozen. Having a good O-line and a good quarterback that's a threat on 1st through 4th down, coupled with a good running back, now you're talkin.
Last season, the Broncos' O-line was a piece of Kwrap. Will that change for the better this season?
If not, you'd better start cheerin' for them Raiders. At least they have a defense to build around.
June 2, 2008
1:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
Posted by denmex on June 2, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (translated)
Great breakdown Orange_Crush18 but girl-friend, it's not enough to be a contender and is not enough to make shanny-the Rat's offense work.
The problem is that Travis does have a lot of off-the-field issues, but who cares about these issues when you need a first down or something like that?
The rest of the back-field has great character but they have a lot on the field issues; Young gets injured very often, Bell fumbles very often, Torian.... well we don't know a thing about Torian except he is coming off an injury, and Pitman- well he is older than Terrel Davis.
My point is that Shanahan could see this coming and draft an rb or get one on the free market.
Now it's too late and the Broncos backfield looks weaker than ever.
Let's get Chester Tylor from Minn. or mayby Alexander.
The thing is that this is not good news. Not for the Broncos, not for the fans, and not for # 20."
June 2, 2008
1:42 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
Posted by McGowdog on June 2, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by denmex on June 2, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (translated)
Re-Edited. Version 2.b
"Great breakdown Orange_Crush18, but girl-friend, it's not enough to be a contender and it is not enough to make Shanny-the Rat's offense work.
The problem is that Travis does have a lot of off-the-field issues, but who cares about these issues when you need a first down or something like that?
The rest of the back-field has great character but they have a lot on the field issues; Young gets injured too often, Bell fumbles too often, Torian.... well we don't know a thing about Torian except he is coming off an injury, and Pitman- well he is older than Terrel Davis.
My point is that Shanahan could see this coming and draft an rb or get one off the free-agenct market. (??)
Now it's too late and the Broncos' back-field looks weaker than ever.
Let's get Chester Tylor from Minn. or maybe Alexander.
The thing is- that this is not good news; Not for the Broncos, not for the fans, and not for # 20."
June 2, 2008
1:43 p.m.
Suggest removal
CUBUFFINSUNDEVILCOUNTRY writes:
You guys up there will LOVE Torain. Watching him here at the ASU Games, he is a clone of TD. One cut, and gone. Too Bad Erickson, and Koetter's systems were not a perfect fit for him. I think the zone blocking sceme will be best for him. Although I bleed Orange, I have to live with the Fraud-nals down here. I iwsh they would have picked him up to replace the suddenly over the hill Edge James. We will trade you J.J. Arrington for Torain..<evil giggle >
June 2, 2008
1:44 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
Posted by McGowdog on June 2, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by McGowdog on June 2, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by denmex on June 2, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (translated)
Re-Re-Edited. Version 2.c
"Great breakdown Orange_Crush18, but girl-friend, it's not enough to be a contender and it is not enough to make Shanny-the Rat's offense work.
The problem is that Travis does have a lot of off-the-field issues, but who cares about these issues when you need a first down or something like that?
The rest of the back-field has great character but they have a lot on the field issues; Young gets injured too often, Bell fumbles too often, Torian.... well we don't know a thing about Torian except he is coming off an injury, and Pitman- well he is older than Terrel Davis.
My point is that Shanahan could see this coming and draft an rb or get one off the free-agent market. (??)
Now it's too late and the Broncos' back-field looks weaker than ever.
Let's get Chester Tylor from Minn. or maybe Alexander.
The thing is- that this is not good news; Not for the Broncos, not for the fans, and not for # 20."
June 2, 2008
1:46 p.m.
Suggest removal
Big_D writes:
Denver is about the O-line not the back. I remember a certain sixth round pick that led them to two Super Bowls. They need receivers that can get open and a good defense coach and the rest will come.
June 2, 2008
1:55 p.m.
Suggest removal
McGowdog writes:
Right. We'll keep churning out good running backs. Running backs should all come with 4 year contracts, then they should be transfered out to some other position, a broadcasting career, or given a pension and retirement from the NFL. The Broncos get this. Other teams are starting to catch on.
June 2, 2008
2:37 p.m.
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BMat writes:
Off field issues?!
So they replaced a guy with nine baby-mama's with another guy who tried to run over his wife and child in his SUV.
Aren't they just rearanging the deck chairs on the Titanic?
Hey Shanny - most of us average people can go 6 or 8 months without getting arrested. Can't you convince your guys to give it a try?
June 2, 2008
3:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
CyberHostage writes:
Wow. Who knew character was important? That's okay Travis: only TWO more kids, and you can have your own Pee-Wee team. And since they are from all over, they can truly be called "America's Team".
June 2, 2008
3:16 p.m.
Suggest removal
BCC233 writes:
Cwillyrun1: Give Young a break! He was a rookie last year. Yes he came in a little bit too small for the NFL from College. Remember un-drafted players don't have big time agents to set them up on workouts with private trainers to get them ready to impress NFL teams. Besides Terrell Davis did not have great stats as a rookie either. Young only had a few starts last season. We will have to wait and see how he does this season before any conclusions can be reached. Also someone said Torrian was a dud. How about if we actually let him play at least one preseason game before we determine that he is a dud!
Rookie rushing stats for TD (remember he started the first 14 games that season)
Att Yds TD Lng Y/A Y/G
237 1117 7 60 4.7 79.8
Cwillyrun1 you said Young's actual Yards per Attempt was 4.6. See the above Y/A. Now, I am not saying Young is TD but lets give this kid a chance to prove what type of back he is.
http://www.pro-football-reference.com...
June 2, 2008
3:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
BroncoRick69 writes:
Cwillyrun1, Not only will you be admitting you were wrong a couple of months after the season starts, You'll be scripting me calligraphy notes of apology for your ridiculous comments. I said that Selvin Young was "great". I didn't say he was a future hall-of-famer, and I didn't compare him with anyone. 5.2 Yards a carry is what it is. Its very good, and its why he will be the starting running back until he is no longer able to produce numbers like that. It's plain and simple.
June 2, 2008
3:43 p.m.
Suggest removal
Cwillyrun1 writes:
Young's attitude is something I like, and it's not about giving him a chance because he'll get it and if he's the best of the group, he'll start. Don't forget though, he went to Texas, they're almost like a pro organization. I don't think it's time to give him more credit than he deserves, there's still memories of "Quentin Griffin is the next Barry Sanders" after 2 or 3 good games, or that "Mike Bell is the next TD".
So, until him or another back proves they can start, play every down, and take over games, I won't be high in praise for the running backs. I hope the Broncos find a long term answer at running back.
June 2, 2008
3:46 p.m.
Suggest removal
Geta_clue writes:
Shanahan just figured out he lacked commitment. He should have asked the mothers of his kids about his level of commitment.
June 2, 2008
3:58 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
What's your definition of "great", rick69?
The dictionary has three relevant definitions that might be applicable. One is "notably large in size" and we know that's not the case here. Another says "markedly superior in character or quality", and he might be but it wouldn't matter with totin' the rock. And finally, "remarkably skilled", which is probably the one you're going for.
He hasn't done anything outstanding, he hasn't made heads turn around the NFL, he wasn't even "great" enough to be the starter all season and when he did start, it was only due to Henry being out. Young had good numbers last year, he's a good player. But my opinion of greatness is different than yours. I don't think just any player is great, it takes more than decent numbers.
June 2, 2008
4:02 p.m.
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Orange_Crush18 writes:
Cwilly, You state that I am "speculating" about having a decent running game, yet you are doing the exact same thing by "Speculating" that our running game will be poor. While we are both speculating before the season starts, I'll let the track record do my talking. Sounds like the pot calling the kettle black. Except the kettle actually has something to back up his claims.
We've been in this situation before. Someone will step up and the running game will be fine. Regardless of what all the Shanahaters say, the man produces a great running team, history has shown that.
June 2, 2008
4:17 p.m.
Suggest removal
ggonzo writes:
Thats alot of baby moma drama!!! Go Bronks
June 2, 2008
4:58 p.m.
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bronxs136 writes:
Now that our genius of a head coach has waken up, Henry never should have been signed to begin with. There's always a reason or several reasons as to why a productive back is let go and not even tendered an other when in free agency. ITS TIME THAT THE BRONCOS TOOK AWAY THE TITLE OF PRESIDENT OF FOOTBALL OPERATIONS FROM SHANAHAN AND THE MEDIA TO STOP CALLING HIM A GENUIS. Shanahan has done nothing but bring in Garbage since he got that title. He got lucky in finding Terrell Davis at Tailback. Drafted him with a 6th round pick and he panned out. If he doesn't make the team there is nothing lost since he's only a 6th round pick. What has he done since then bring a championship back to Denver. The Broncos have been throught at least 8 QB's since Elway retired. 8 Tailbacks since Davis and guess what were not any better off then we were before. Shanahan is putting enormous amount of pressure on Cutler to be leader but giving him nothing to work with. Its time that Bowlen got involved and just told Shanahan that he's only responsible for coaching. He can have input on who'd he like to see brought in but since when does a GM work for the Head Football coach. He doesn't but that is what is wrong with this entire organization its gotten way to cozy and taken there eye's off the prize. Being a Champion. Not just maintaining a status in the league of genius. That doesn't win Championships.
June 2, 2008
5:23 p.m.
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shesgotthejack writes:
Why not get rid of Shanahan? Unbelievable!! Shanahan has made terrible off season decisions for quite some time now. He is the one to BLAME!! Don't you Bronco fans understand this? Get a new coach and a GM that has a clue about picking up quality free agents instead of these deadbeats. This franchise is really starting to become a laughing stock of the NFL, really!! They will be 7-9 this season at best. . .get use to it!!
June 2, 2008
5:40 p.m.
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AKuser writes:
Article fails to mention that Shanahan's opinion of Selvin has changed after Selvin got stronger in the offseason. seewilly makes Tomilson and Peterson the standard for NFL running backs so it is interesting to note the following stats from last year:
Tomilson, 13 carriers over 20 yards on 315 attempts - 4%
Peterson, 11 carriers over 20 yards on 238 attempts - 4.6%
Selvin, 8 carriers over 20 yards on 140 attempts - 5.7%
June 2, 2008
6:45 p.m.
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nmbronco1 writes:
I'm not going to miss Travis henry. He ran well in a couple of the early games last year, but I distinctly remember him failing to score or make first downs several times. Selvin Young looked good at times, but he too got stuffed on some key 3rd and 4th down attempts. The big difference is ATTITUDE. Apparently Henry didn't think it was important enough for him to participate 100% in the "off-season" (is there really truly an off-season for a pro athlete?) He pissed Shanahan off - and thereby opened the door for several other guys. I'm really interested in seeing what Torain will do... before the last college season, he was rated one of the top 5 backs in the country by some "experts". Had he not gotten injured, he most likely would never have dropped to the 5th round. Pittman's a solid pro, Young has good potential, as do several of the other backs. Remember, Mike Bell tore 'em up when he had the chance before the '06 season. I like what is happening here... 2008 might be a good steppingstone year for some excellent seasons to come for the Broncos.
June 2, 2008
8:02 p.m.
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deweybroncos writes:
How about Shaun Alexander??
June 2, 2008
8:34 p.m.
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tmsloan writes:
The Broncos/Shanahan won two Superbowls with Wade Phillip's team.
June 2, 2008
9:20 p.m.
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ES writes:
We are 4.8 million in debt to the salary cap due to that bum. I was supporting the guy because I thought he needed a second chance. I was wrong. I can't believe he just did not show up for work. In any job that would get you fired. He is a bum.
June 3, 2008
7:28 a.m.
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BroncoRick69 writes:
Cwillyrun1, you are an idiot if you continue to split hairs about my definition of great. I spelled it out for you pretty clearly in my last post. If you still don't understand or agree, fine. Don't act like the pure meaning isn't right there in front of your face.
June 3, 2008
9:31 a.m.
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HBBeough writes:
AKuser, you said more in three lines than most of these bozos could write in a volume of books.
Why can't CWillyRunMouth back up his thoughts with intelligent statistics?
Shanahan rebuilt this team on the run and one 7-9 season is a lot better than the years of consistant losing the current Chargers team was built on or the streak of pathetic football comedy the Raiders are giving their fans.
bronxs136 and Disgusted_in_Denver, you dorks don't know how good Denver has it with Shanahan. You guys would have wanted George Washington fired after he had to retreat across the Delaware River. The guy is a hall of famer and on top of his game. His 2006 draft is the best draft (by any team) in the last 5 years and it followed a trip to the AFC championship, not a double digit loss season. Who would you morons bring in if Shanahan left? No one can compare to Shanny's accomplishments.
June 3, 2008
11:02 a.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
HBB, why don't you read the posts instead of skimming through them so you can form an intelligent thought before you post. I've backed up what I've said with stats and facts. crush18, I'm not speculating about the current condition of the Broncos running game. As of now, there's nothing that stands out in the backfield. If Young was the great player rick69 thinks he is, why is the backfield competition open going into camp? A great back is the definite starter, isn't he? Michael Turner put up awesome numbers in limited duty behind Tomlinson a few years ago, but there was never any doubt Tomlinson was the starter, and we know Tomlinson is great but Turner hasn't proven it yet. Putting up nice numbers in backup duty helped LaMont Jordan go from being Curtis Martin's backup to the Raiders starter to now not even being on a roster for the coming season, all in less than two years. Quentin Griffin had several games where some fans thought he was the next coming of Barry Sanders. Is that the level of greatness you're referring to, rick69?
Here's some numbers:
Tomlinson- 1474 yards, 4.7 ypc, 15 TD's, 92.1 ypg
Peterson- 1341 yards, 5.6 ypc, 12 TD's, 95.8 ypg
Westbrook- 1333 yards, 4.8 ypc, 7 TD's, 88.9 ypg
Portis- 1262 yards, 3.9 ypc, 11 TD's, 78.9 ypg
F. Taylor- 1202 yards, 5.4 ypc, 5 TD's, 80.1 ypg
B. Jacobs- 1009 yards, 5.0 ypc, 4 TD's, 91.7 ypg
Addai- 1072 yards, 4.1 ypc, 12 TD's, 71.5 ypg
R. Grant- 956 yards, 5.1 ypc, 8 TD's, 63.7 ypg
C. Taylor- 844 yards, 5.4 ypc, 7 TD's, 60.3 ypg
S. Young- 729 yards, 5.2 ypc, 1 TD, 48.6 ypg
J. Norwood- 613 yards, 6.0 ypc, 1 TD, 40.9 ypg
Those are a sampling of numbers from running backs last year from among the league leaders. Michael Turner is going to Atlanta to start ahead of Norwood, despite Norwood's 6.0 yards per carry. Does that yards per carry stat equate to how great a runner is? I didn't think so. That logic would mean Young's a better running back than Clinton Portis, and we know he's not as of now. The backs on that list all have numbers that compare favorably to Selvin Young, so let's not give Young more credit than he deserves at this point, or more expectations than is necessary. I'm not splitting hairs on the definition of great, rick69, I'm going with facts to form my opinion of the current state of the running game and you can let your emotions dictate your opinion.
AKuser, that's a nice stat you posted, but just to put it in perspective...... Ashley Lelie was a league leader in yards per catch, having several of his catches going for over 20 yards, with Plummer as his QB. Did that mean Lelie should've been compared to receivers like T. Owens, C. Johnson, Harrison and others playing at a Pro Bowl level? While I'm optimistic the running game will show something big for the coming season, I'm not blindly leading myself to believe things are just fine.
rick69, next time, don't lose the argument and you won't have to resort to name calling.
June 3, 2008
11:26 a.m.
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DJRMTNSPF writes:
Shannahan is a good coach but a terrible GM. Time for him and the Broncos to realize it.
June 3, 2008
12:16 p.m.
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HBBeough writes:
CWillyRunMouth, I have a job and usually don't get to read all your wonderful work sorry. Can you cut and paste some QB stats when you get a chance?
And DJRMTNSPF, dude you have some real unique thoughts, I really enjoyed that in-depth post.
June 3, 2008
12:41 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
HBB, don't be lazy, if you want QB stats I'm sure you can get help in finding them without being too dependant on others educating you.
Oh, and nice try at insults, but really weak..... like your posts. Go back to the drawing board and work at it some more. Next time, try debating the subject, or think of something meaningful for yourself to post instead of solely cutting others down. It's a sign of an insecure ego.
(It's nice you have a job, now we at least know you're not one of the homeless dudes sitting in a library...... but you say it as if we cared, lol)
June 3, 2008
12:51 p.m.
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BroncoRick69 writes:
Thats hilarious. I didn't think this was an argument. Its opinion-based discussion. I also didn't think there were any winners or losers. I'll let you go ahead and think you won.
June 3, 2008
12:55 p.m.
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BroncoRick69 writes:
Wait, Cwillyrun1 let me drill you on your definition of "duds" for a few hours.
June 3, 2008
12:58 p.m.
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Spider writes:
Even with limited carries 5.2 and 4.9 yards per carry doesn't sound too shabby to me. I would never call any RB capable of reaching those kind of numbers a dud. Look at all the RB's in the same situation (young and untested) who never even make a club because they can't even reach a 4.0 average.
June 3, 2008
1:56 p.m.
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BroncoRick69 writes:
I dunno I guess I just see too much potential. You cant really back that up with anything can you? Maybe someone should make a book of factoidal intangibles so that Cwillyrun1 would have a more clear picture.
June 3, 2008
2:15 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
rick69, you have an opinion and I have a different one. Ever hear that debating is also called an "argument", or is it just that in your own little world you've never heard about that?
Then you go immature by commenting about who let who won..... please, get a life dude.
So rick69, it goes back to you having a feeling of what will happen with the running back situation. As you said, "potential". Guess what, every player in the NFL has potential at some point or they wouldn't be playing in the NFL. But potential is a far cry from productive results. Anyway, it's not up to me to back up your opinion, it's up to you...... and you're doing a sorry job of it!
June 3, 2008
2:28 p.m.
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HBBeough writes:
Here is why whoever runs next year for the Broncos will have success:
1. Nalen returns to center (an upgrade over Myers and his backup Weigmann is good too)
2. Hamilton returns at guard (a small upgrade over Kuper but Kuper provides depth)
3. Clady at LT (Lepsis wasn't good last year. Clady should be much better even as a rook)
4. Pears and Holland have a year working together.
5. Graham will know the offense better.
Every O-line position will be better and when the line is doing it's thing, the running game goes from the dreadful 9th best in the league to top five no doubt. Young is bigger and stronger, Cutler will have more audible options and the offense will put up numbers.
...Also Rick69, I'll trade you my insecure ego for your immaturity.
June 3, 2008
2:56 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
HBB, the line should be a lot better than last year (as long as the inuries don't hit again), but that's no guarantee any of the running backs are going to put up huge numbers. If you disagree, fine.
June 3, 2008
4:15 p.m.
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momof5 writes:
Geez, has this guy ever heard of condoms? What a loser. One article I read said he had to borrow money from his last team to pay child support. And the judge in one child support case made him set up a $250,000 trust fund for the kid to ensure child support. Amazing. Hope his kids have better role models in their lives than this loser.