Elam's exit concerns Champ Bailey

Cornerback isn't happy 'proven' kicker is gone

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published March 25, 2008 at 7:36 p.m.

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Champ Bailey is concerned about the Broncos decision to let kicker Jason Elam sign with the Atlanta Falcons.

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March 25, 2008

9:13 p.m.

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sickandtired writes:

Maybe Champ considered giving back a couple million of his salary to ensure Elam's signing ... naw, I didn't think so!
March 25, 2008

9:51 p.m.

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IBleedOrange writes:

Not allowed under the collective bargaining agreement, genius.
March 25, 2008

10:01 p.m.

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sickandtired writes:

Honestly now, greater genius, isn't it possible to rework a contract to save cap money? Isn't that what Elway did more than once, back in the day?

Of course, maybe Champ doesn't realize that there IS ONLY SO MUCH MONEY?!

But I defer to the greater genius, enlighten me please ... (I'm just playin' with you, man)
March 25, 2008

10:01 p.m.

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superchop7 writes:

I didn't like the signing of his brother either.
March 25, 2008

11:09 p.m.

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JGagnon19 writes:

I can't even see the Broncos winning 7 games.
March 26, 2008

12:43 a.m.

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filmjay2k writes:

Wow. You guys are some really uplifting fans. I feel like shooting myself after your inspiring commentary. I imagine they should just close down Dove Valley and go home. Except, I'm pretty sure the Broncos are the winningest team in the NFL during Shannahan's tenure, right? You all complain about EVERYTHING. We just absorbed a 7 million dollar cap hit for releasing Gold and Walker. Elam got 9 million from Atlanta. You really want us spending money like crazy again? Maybe they're trying to save money so they can move up in round one and get a major difference maker. Gotta have some cash and cap room to sign a top 1st round talent don't you think? Or maybe Shannahan (still considered among the best football minds around by the rest of the NFL) and Bolen (definitely one of the savviest and most successful owners in football - i.e. billion dollar franchise) just don't care about winning anymore. I'm sure they get up at 3am and spend 15 hours a day at work just because they have nothing better to do. I wonder if they know more about what they're doing than the sports reporters at RMNews and the Post know. Nah, probably not.
March 26, 2008

7:04 a.m.

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MrBigShout writes:

Finally, the voice of reason from a Bronco player of note. Elam will be sorely missed.
March 26, 2008

9:14 a.m.

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bigdaddytate writes:

Broncos fans do not complain about our organization, we may have made some questioining decisions but think about this. When the Broncos won back to back superbowls we had no name talent and let go of players, remember Ed McCaffery, Rod Smith. The Broncos know what they are doing so dont come on these forums and talk about what they should do because most people cant even name our backups. The Broncos will go back to their winning ways so dont worry. It is all about rebuilding and letting elam go was the start, he is getting old and getting a younger kicker is the start.
March 26, 2008

9:21 a.m.

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Seawen writes:

This guy should shut up. I still say we would have won more games with Portis over the last 4 seasons.
March 26, 2008

9:41 a.m.

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AWM writes:

CHAMP SHOULD KICK!
March 26, 2008

10:24 a.m.

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Lanjoith writes:

I mentioned last season that I couldn't find 8 wins on the Broncos schedule & was crucified for it. Once again, I can't find 8 wins. The 2008 Broncos will be weaker than the 2007 version. Boss Bailey was over-rated in college, over-rated in the draft and didn't do anything of note in Detroit. Niko Koutouvides has been a career backup. Marlon McCree was the weak link on an otherwise very solid Chargers defense and Marquand Manuel is a backup at best. I actually like the signing of Keary Colbert but he will never be more than a slot receiver in the NFL and that spot is currently filled by Stokley. If either Stokely or Colbert is forced into the #2 receiver spot, the offense will suffer. The Broncos need to put a couple solid drafts together to even think about competing for the AFC west title. I think the Raiders are actually the 2nd best team in the west right now followed by Denver and then KC.
March 26, 2008

11:06 a.m.

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DJRMTNSPF writes:

Forget spending a lot on a kicker. We need a real defensive line. One half as good as the Giant's line would be a step up. For years we have not shown any interest in obtaining middle-aged proven linemen. Instead we go for past-their-prime deals or no-names. You could have 5 Champ Baileys. If you don't get pressure on the opposing QB and stop the run, forget it.
March 26, 2008

11:12 a.m.

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Cwillyrun1 writes:

The Raiders the second best team in the AFC West? HAHAHAHAHA.... okay. Spending as much money as they have, I still don't think it improves the Raiders that much. Overpaid or over-rated players are what they brought in or kept. The trend for the Raiders is set, worst in the league the last 5 years.

The Broncos added depth in places they needed it, at least to some extent. The other thing with who they brought in.... the players have more character than necessarily a big reputation or talent. Walker had talent, but he wasn't mentally there. Some of the time more is needed than that, like what the Patsies have done, even if I don't like them. A good point was made in who knows what Shanahan has planned, because he might move up in the draft and that takes money. Also, what about a trade for someone, say Julius Peppers? That's going to require money too. Knowing Shanahan, the Broncos are still working on things. But it doesn't all come at once, so give it some time.
March 26, 2008

11:57 a.m.

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bigdaddytate writes:

how would the broncos win more games with portis when it was the denver broncos zone blocking scheme that propeled him, you need to sudy up on your facts, and we were well compensated for him. a first round draft pick and champ bailey, anyone would take that deal without even thinking. So you obviously dont know enough about the broncos(Seawen). Champ Bailey has made the pro bowl all his years with the broncos, when was the last time portis went. The Broncos have 1 or 2 more years to reach the top again, in that time you will see the broncos consistently in the playoffs. With all the youth and talent people fail to realize that when players are young and good like the green bay packers, and the denver broncos, they only can get better. So just be patient and you can brag about how good the broncos are in about two years.
March 26, 2008

12:06 p.m.

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denfan writes:

Champ is off on this one - I don't think Elam can do it anymore. He's been terrible from 50+ the last 3 or 4 years, and not that great from 40-49. I don't like seeing a once great player go, but it's a good move in this case. However, I didn't know they were bringing in Mare - he NEVER has been able to do it. They better find someone young and good.

For the brainiac who said the Broncos would have been better off with Portis instead of Bailey - I haven't seen the Redskins win any championships, and his productivity dropped considerably when he went to Washington. Pay attention! Portis wasn't that good, and is worse now. He's still riding the coattails of his career here.

The Broncos just aren't going to be good until they fix the offensive (and it really is offensive) line and defensive line. Shanahan has been awful at picking talent in that area and should let someone else do it. Don't forget we also need a #2 WR. Stokely won't cut it, and with Javon gone (stupid move for Denver) and Rod retiring (the 2nd best Bronco ever behind TD), they need another good receiver. Of course, Marshall may be gone soon too since he can't control his temper - so maybe we need a #1 and a #2. Any way you look at it, the Broncos are rebuilding and will be lucky to finish 3rd in the division, and even luckier to make the playoffs.
March 26, 2008

12:07 p.m.

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jlcampbelldenver writes:

Champ is right. The Broncos are just saving money at the expense of this season. I dont see 5 wins. Those who think a kicker isnt important needs to rethink.
March 26, 2008

12:20 p.m.

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dadinlittleton writes:

Geezzzzzzzzz i hate the bronco fan wagon.

Yes i fell of once.
Course I am old enough to remember our 4th Super bowl loss to the 49'rs and personally burning my shirt i was so bummed. Thought the team would never do it.

This team is a solid organization and a very young and talented team.

Champ for Portis and a first? No brainier, make that trade.

We are not an 8-8 team.

Last year Cutler grew a lot and like other QB's in the NFL. Year 3-4 are come out years. Eli for one Rivers for another. I do agree with Champ, kickers can and do make a difference. We need to find a good replacement but Elam ( i am a fan) was not worth what it would take to pay him. Wish Elam the best.

I also notice almost every year were predicted to do really well, we don't and when were predicted to do poor we also don't

Humm

Go Bronco's and whomever the new kicker is for this year.
March 26, 2008

1:11 p.m.

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kmeissner writes:

denfan- TD as the best Bronco player of all time? That's crazy. He was a great player, but he only played a few seasons. Elway is OBVIOUSLY the best Bronco of all time. I agree with Rod Smith at #2 though. He will be sorely missed. Even though his production fell off in the past few years, he was still a leader in the locker room and off the field. Hopefully they offer him a coaching spot (receivers coach???).

Elam was and is a good kicker, but $9 Mil is too much for an old kicker. Hopefully we can find someone good to replace him though. That will be the real test.
March 26, 2008

1:45 p.m.

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notknowitall writes:

Go away Champ and bring back Portis. I don't see where a player like Champ made that much of a difference! On the other hand Portis made a heck of a difference where he went.
March 26, 2008

1:49 p.m.

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Jaeks75 writes:

I don't care what Champ thinks, you don't pay a kicker that kind of money. We are not a championship team this year. That's just how it is. So you have to build a future that ensures better seasons. We locked up the best DB in the NFL, who is under 30. Our quarterback is fresh out of college. We now have young linebackers. We are rebuilding the right way. Uh, how many draft picks do we have? And aren't they in the rounds that shanahan prevails in.
March 26, 2008

2:08 p.m.

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fromva2milehigh writes:

I respect Champ as an individual and being vocal as a captain.If we reflect back to last season, Elam should have been the MVP. I know and understand the salary cap so if a player dont fit...then he must split. Some players take a pay cut to play for contenders and some are at the end of there career and are chasing money. I respect the game. He will be missed.When it comes to the draft...DEFENSIVE LINE!!!!!!!!
March 26, 2008

2:38 p.m.

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Cal writes:

AAAAAAACK! People were telling me I was crazy when I said that the Broncos should've drafted Mason Crosby. Should've, could've, I definitely would've.
March 26, 2008

2:57 p.m.

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Seawen writes:

dadinlittleton
Champ for Portis and a first? No brainier, make that trade.

It was second round pick.
March 26, 2008

3:07 p.m.

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Seawen writes:

Hey tate and denfan:

Portis healthy seasons in Washington
1500, 1300, and 1300 yards
Poris healthy seasons in Denver
1500, 1600 yards
Zone blocking helped? Yes. Made him? No dude.
Look at the homeless guys we've trotted out since getting rid of Portis. Yes they rush for 1000 yards but don't change the game in any way. Teams don't game plan against our RB's. They don't scare anyone.

If we had keep Portis there were many guys we could have drafted in that 2004 draft that would have been as helpful as Bailey. Nathan Vasher (pro-bowler), Bob Sanders(superman),
and who would we have had to give up? Tatem Bell, Darius Watts or Jeremy LeSueur. Still like this move genius.

It's not that Champ is bad. Of course not you dope. I never sad that. It's just that a team with Portis, and Bob Sanders is better than a team with Bailey and Bell, or an of RB's we've used since 2004.
And stop with the silly "well Washington haven't one and championships with him". Really? Are we having this discussion when the Broncos have missed the playoffs that last two season and have not won an champions since this trade either. Come on dude.
Look what you've done. You've turned me in to a hater.
March 26, 2008

3:16 p.m.

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princess writes:

Portis for Bailey was bad? Has this person lost their damn mind? Portis SUCKS. Not only that but he's hurt like every other day.
March 26, 2008

3:44 p.m.

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denfan writes:

Hey Seawen - take a look at his yards per carry during his tenure in Washington compared to Denver. He set an NFL record for the largest drop in yards per carry from one year to the next - ever. Don't tell me he's as productive in Washington when you don't know the facts.

kmeissner - Elway is not the best Bronco ever - he's #3. I put him behind the other two because I add character into the mix. Elway is a - well, something I can't say on here.
March 26, 2008

4:17 p.m.

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southpaw writes:

Cheer up fair weather fans. Let's take our lashes like all NFL fans have to do. I suppose I could kick the dog, beat the wife, and curse Shanny's name at the top of my lungs, but the reality is that we ain't gonna be on top every year. EVERY team has made bad personnel moves, but look on the bright side. Griese's not here anymore...

P.S. They dumped Portis because his agent, Drew (Show me the money) Rosenhaus, was gonna have him sit with two years left on his contract. Having an all-pro corner is always better than a pouting tailback.
March 26, 2008

4:36 p.m.

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dlstark writes:

What current Bronco has scored more points than Jason Elam? If the Broncos didn't "create a vacuum" as bad as they do, and Jason wasn't the only one to score in some games last season perhaps he wouldn't be as important. There are serious underlying ailments in the Broncos team and Jason Elam leaving is simply a symptom.
March 26, 2008

7:23 p.m.

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sickandtired writes:

OK Denfan - I've had enough of this Elway bashing. "Well, I know this". "Well, but did you know ...?"

And your "I can't say it here". What a bunch of craap. Then don't bring it up! I"ve been hearing this stuff for years, and then NO ONE EVER SAYS ANYTHING. Let alone verifies or validates it.

I'll tell you what that is, buddy - being a d*** coward. That's right, I'm calling you a coward. Either spit it out, or don't bring it up.

As far as all-time Broncos go, simply for what he did on the field, there is no question Elway is the No. 1 Bronco of all time. And if you REALLY know something that is so abhorent to you to downgrade him, spit it out. Or shut up about it in the first place.
March 26, 2008

9:14 p.m.

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foreveraBroncofan writes:

Some of this is just downright funny. Of course Elway is top Bronco of all time, but may never have won a super bowl without T.D.! Champ & a 2nd round pick for Portis anyday! A kicker is important! Elam was great, but definatly not worth what Atl. gave him. We will win more than 8 games this year. In fact, in this the time of optimism, anybody who doesn't think we're going to shouldn't even be on this site.
March 26, 2008

11:04 p.m.

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Seawen writes:

Denfan
I never said he was AS productive in Washington. I provided the numbers that showed he wasn't. As a point of fact Washington's line stinks. They are finally starting to repair it. All I said was that there was not a hugh drop off like other backs we have jettisoned. Bell, Gary, Droughns, Anderson and whoever else you want to name.
You know what else genius. If he stayed he would be running behind our line. Yes the line that he put up 1600 yards and 5.5 yards per cary. No one else since TD had been able to put up those numbers behind our line. It's a symbiotic relationship. The right back for the right line. And you still have addressed the fact the Bob Sanders plus Portis is better than Bell plus Bailey.
I will say it again, Bailey is great but that is not the issue. The issue is keeping Portis and drafting a DB/Saftey was a better deal. I say it would have been. You say otherwise but provide no facts.
March 29, 2008

7:39 a.m.

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jlcampbelldenver writes:

Kooiman

We wont win 5 games this year! Get your head out of the clouds, Shanny is not up to his Super Bowl form...why...no TD and no Elway!
March 31, 2008

11:01 p.m.

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Circa83 writes:

Most these comments I am reading are writting us off already, and it isnt even April yet. Draft day is still 25 days away <and counting> Still good FA out there, Rod Coleman comes to mind. Still players on the trading block, IE Roy Willaims, and still on 3-31 its offical, 5-11. Not to sound like a moron, but if the broncos want to will this year and solve all our problems trade 2009 1st rounder for R. Williams, trade for Robertson from the Jets and sign Coleman from the ATL. Draft a kicker in the late rounds and a left tackle in the 1st. Wont happen but we would win the division.

In Shanny We Trust!

Home › Denver Broncos

Elam's exit concerns Champ Bailey

Cornerback isn't happy 'proven' kicker is gone

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published March 25, 2008 at 7:36 p.m.

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