2006 weekly press release Preseason Game #1 • Denver (0-0) at Detroit (0-0) Friday, Aug. 11, 2006 • 7:30 p.m. EDT FORD FIELD (64,500) • Detroit, Michigan

BRONCOS KICK OFF 2006 PRESEASON MEDIA RELATIONS CONTACT INFORMATION WITH VISIT TO DETROIT Jim Saccomano (303) 649-0572 [email protected] The Denver Broncos, coming off Paul Kirk (303) 649-0503 [email protected] an AFC West title and a berth in the Patrick Smyth (303) 649-0536 [email protected] conference championship game in Dave Gaylinn (303) 649-0512 [email protected] 2005, will begin their 47th year of Rebecca Villanueva (303) 649-0598 [email protected] professional football on Friday when they visit the for their WWW.DENVERBRONCOS.COM/MEDIAROOM preseason opener. Kickoff at Ford Field is set for 7:30 p.m. EDT. Denver looks to improve its 10-1 (.909) record in preseason The Denver Broncos have a media-only Web site, which was creat- openers under , who begins his 12th year as the ed to assist accredited media in their coverage of the Broncos. By Broncos’ head coach in 2006 and has a 34-14 (.708) preseason going to www.DenverBroncos.com/Mediaroom, members of the record with the club. The Broncos’ game against the Lions marks press will find complete statistical packages, press releases, rosters, updated bios, transcripts, injury reports, game recaps, news clippings, the ninth consecutive season that they will play their first preseason photos and much more. The 2006 Broncos Media Guide is available in game away from Denver. PDF format on the media Web site as well as a complete archive of Denver, which has won its last seven preseason games played on gamebooks and flip cards for every game in franchise history. a Friday, owns a 2-1 all-time record in the preseason against the Lions. The last two preseason contests played between the clubs occurred in the Hall of Fame Game (1991 and 1976). BRONCOS 2006 SCHEDULE The Lions are coming off a 5-11 season in 2005 and are led by PRESEASON first-year Head Coach , who spent the last 10 years Wk. Day Date Opponent Site Time/Result TV instructing the Buccaneers’ defensive line. 1 Fri. Aug. 11 at Detroit Ford Field 7:30 p.m. EDT CBS 4 Denver’s 2006 squad returns all four of its 2005 selec- 2 Sat. Aug. 19 TENNESSEE INVESCO Field at Mile High 7:00 p.m. MDT CBS 4 3 Sun. Aug. 27 INVESCO Field at Mile High 6:00 p.m. MDT NFLN tions (CB Champ Bailey, S John Lynch, WR Rod Smith and LB Al 4 Thu. Aug. 31 at Stadium 7:00 p.m. MST CBS 4 Wilson) as well as starting Jake Plummer. A Pro Bowl REGULAR SEASON alternate in 2005 who was unable to play in the contest due to an Wk. Day Date Opponent Site Time/Result TV 1 Sun. Sept. 10 at St. Louis Edward Jones Dome 12:00 p.m. CDT CBS injury, Plummer is entering his fourth year with the Broncos. 2 Sun. Sept. 17 KANSAS CITY INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MDT CBS The Broncos also added to last season’s squad that went 13-3 by 3 Sun. Sept. 24 at New England Gillette Stadium 8:15 p.m. EDT NBC trading for Pro Bowl Javon Walker and selecting sev- 4 Bye 5 Mon. Oct. 9 BALTIMORE INVESCO Field at Mile High 6:30 p.m. MDT ESPN eral highly regarded rookies in the , including quarterback Jay 6 Sun. Oct. 15 OAKLAND INVESCO Field at Mile High 6:15 p.m. MDT NBC Cutler (first round) and tight end Tony Scheffler (second round). 7 Sun. Oct. 22 at Cleveland Stadium 4:05 p.m. EDT CBS The Broncos have been preparing for the Lions and the rest of 8 Sun. Oct. 29 INDIANAPOLIS INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MST CBS 9 Sun. Nov. 5 at Pittsburgh Heinz Field 4:15 p.m. EST CBS their 2006 opponents during their training camp, held at the club’s 10 Sun. Nov. 12 at Oakland McAfee Coliseum 1:05 p.m. PST CBS facility in Englewood, Colo. It is the fourth consecutive year that the 11 Sun. Nov. 19 SAN DIEGO INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MST CBS Broncos have held camp at their facility after the team spent the 12 Thu. Nov. 23 at Kansas City Arrowhead Stadium 7:00 p.m. CST NFLN 13 Sun. Dec. 3 SEATTLE INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MST FOX previous 21 years (1982-2002) training at the University of 14 Sun. Dec. 10 at San Diego Qualcomm Stadium 1:15 p.m. PST CBS Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colo. 15 Sun. Dec. 17 at Arizona Cardinals Stadium 2:05 p.m. MST CBS 16 Sun. Dec. 24 CINCINNATI INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MST CBS TELEVISION AND RADIO INFORMATION 17 Sun. Dec. 31 SAN FRANCISCO INVESCO Field at Mile High 2:15 p.m. MST FOX TELEVISION: CBS (KCNC-TV - Channel 4): Gary Miller (play-by- 2005 AFC WEST FINAL STANDINGS play) and Reggie Rivers (color commentary) will call the game while Vic Lombardi and Tim Ring will be reporting from the sidelines. Team W L T PF PA Home Road AFC NFC DIV Streak LOCAL RADIO: KOA Radio (850 AM): Dave Logan (play-by-play) Denver 13 3 0 395 258 8-0 5-3 10-2 3-1 5-1 Won 4 and David Diaz-Infante (color commentary) will call the game while Kansas City 10 6 0 403 325 7-1 3-5 9-3 1-3 4-2 Won 2 San Diego 9 7 0 418 312 4-4 5-3 7-5 2-2 3-3 Lost 2 Alan Roach will be reporting from the sidelines. Oakland 4 12 0 290 383 2-6 2-6 2-10 2-2 0-6 Lost 6

DENVER at detroit — 1 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release GAME INFORMATION

BRONCOS VS. LIONS - POINTS OF INTEREST BRONCOS/LIONS COMPARISON (‘05 SEASON) Denver on Friday will play Detroit for the fourth time in the presea- BRONCOS LIONS son and owns a 2-1 (.667) record in those games... The last two pre- Record ...... 13-3 ...... 5-11 season contests between the clubs have occurred in the Hall of Fame Division Standing ...... 1st (AFCW) . . .3rd (NFCN) Game in Canton, Ohio, with the most recent being on July 27, 1991 (a NFL Offensive Ranking ...... 5th ...... 27th 14-3 Lions win)... Friday’s game will mark the Broncos’ first trip to Offense-Points Per Game ...... 24.7 ...... 15.9 Ford Field, which opened in 2002 and seats 64,500 fans, as well as Possession Average ...... 32:37 ...... 29:13 the club’s first-ever road preseason game against the Lions... The Total Net Yards Per Game ...... 360.4 ...... 269.9 Net Rushing Yards Per Game ...... 158.7 ...... 91.9 Broncos own a 6-3 (.667) record against the Lions in the regular sea- Net Passing Yards Per Game ...... 201.7 ...... 178.0 son and have won their last two such contests (2003 in Denver and Had Intercepted/Yards Lost ...... 7/43 ...... 18/271 1999 in Detroit)... Mike Shanahan has guided the Broncos to a 10-1 Sacks Allowed/Yards Lost ...... 23/146 ...... 31/173 (.909) record in preseason openers during his time as Denver’s head Field Goals/FGA ...... 24/32 ...... 19/24 coach (1995-Present) and holds a 34-14 (.708) all-time preseason NFL Defensive Ranking ...... 15th ...... 20th record with the club... All-time, Denver is 23-23 in preseason open- Defense-Points Per Game ...... 16.1 ...... 21.6 ers and 11-7 in those contests on the road... Denver has won its last Defense-Total Net Yards Per Game . . . . .312.9 ...... 322.4 eight preseason road openers (excluding HOF Game and American Defense-Rushing Yards Per Game ...... 85.2 ...... 127.5 Bowl contests) and has not lost a “true” road preseason opener since Defense-Passing Yards Per Game ...... 227.7 ...... 194.9 Defense-Intercepted by/Yards ...... 20/379 ...... 18/271 1992... The Broncos will begin the preseason away from Denver for Defense-Sacks For/Yards ...... 28/190 ...... 31/187 the ninth consecutive year (7 road games, 1 Hall of Fame Game and Punts-Average Yards (Gross) ...... 43.2 ...... 43.5 1 American Bowl)... Denver looks to extend its seven-game winning Punts-Average Yards (Net) ...... 38.0 ...... 36.9 streak in preseason games played on a Friday... Denver has played on Returns-Average Per ...... 8.5 ...... 7.6 Friday in each of the last three preseasons (3-0)... Broncos CB Champ Punt Returns-Average Per Allowed ...... 7.4 ...... 10.4 Bailey is set to play against his younger brother, Lions LB , Kickoff Returns-Average Per ...... 20.7 ...... 21.6 for the first time in his career on Friday... Rod Marinelli will make his Kickoff Returns-Average Per Allowed . . . . .25.3 ...... 22.5 NFL head coaching debut against the Broncos, marking the first time Penalties Against/Yards ...... 97/756 ...... 115/838 Denver has faced a coach making his debut in a preseason opener /Lost ...... 19/9 ...... 21/12 Opponent Fumbles/Lost ...... 26/16 ...... 24/12 since 1999 when the club defeated Mike Riley and the Chargers 20- 17 in the American Bowl in Sydney, Australia... The combined 2005 BRONCOS LIONS regular-season record of Denver’s four preseason opponents (Detroit, PASSING YARDS Tennessee, Houston and Arizona) this year is 21-43 (.328)... The Plummer ...... 3,366 Harrington* ...... 2,021 Van Pelt ...... 7 Garcia* ...... 937 Broncos’ training camp, which began on July 28 and is scheduled to Orlovsky ...... 63 conclude Aug. 18, is being held at the team’s practice facility in RUSHING YARDS Englewood, Colo... It is the Broncos’ fourth consecutive season hold- Anderson* ...... 1,014 Jones ...... 664 ing their training camp at their facility... Broncos Head Coach Mike T. Bell ...... 921 Pinner ...... 349 Shanahan enters the 2006 season ranked 19th in NFL history in career Dayne ...... 270 Bryson ...... 306 victories with 130 (122 reg. / 8 post.)... Shanahan needs five victories RECEIVING YARDS to pass Weeb Ewbank to move into 18th place and seven wins to pass Smith ...... 1,105 R. Williams ...... 687 Hank Stram for 17th place in career wins... The Broncos enter 2006 Lelie* ...... 770 Pollard ...... 516 leading the NFL in points (4,440), total yards (64,235) and rushing Putzier* ...... 481 Vines ...... 417 yards (25,022) since Shanahan’s first year with the team in 1995... POINTS SCORED Denver has won its last 10 regular-season games at home, tying Elam ...... 115 Hanson ...... 84 Seattle for the longest active streak in the NFL... The Broncos’ 10- Anderson* ...... 78 R. Williams ...... 48 game home unbeaten streak in regular-season play is the third longest T. Bell ...... 48 Jones ...... 30 in club annals and longest since 1998... Denver WR Rod Smith is three catches away from 800 for his career and begins the year ranked Bailey ...... 8 Bly ...... 6 15th in NFL history in career receptions (797) and 16th in receiving Ferguson ...... 5 Goodman* ...... 3 yards (10,877)... With 70 or more catches in 2006, Smith will join Tim Foxworth, Lynch, Da. Williams . .2 Holt, Kennedy, McQuarters* . .2 Brown as the only two players in league history to post 10 consecu- SACKS tive seasons of 70 or more receptions... QB Jake Plummer’s 32-11 Ekuban ...... 4.0 Edwards ...... 7.0 record (.744) as a starter with Denver is the third best in the NFL since Lynch, Pryce* ...... 4.0 Rogers ...... 5.5 Gold, Warren, Wilson . . . .3.0 Hall ...... 5.0 2003... Denver K Jason Elam enters 2006 ranked 10th in NFL history in career field goals (341) and 11th in career points scored (1,557). * - Player not on club’s 2006 active roster.

DENVER at detroit — 2 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release GAME INFORMATION

TEAM COMPARISON - OTHER KEY AREAS (‘05 SEASON) BRONCOS/LIONS COACHING COMPARISON CATEGORY (NFL RANK) BRONCOS LIONS MIKE SHANAHAN ROD MARINELLI 3rd Down Offense 36.2% (22) 38.8% (18) YEAR AS AN NFL HEAD COACH: 14th 1st 3rd Down Defense 36.7% (12t) 39.4% (19) OVERALL YEAR IN NFL: 23rd 11th Red Zone Offense—TD Pct. 60.3% (7) 50.0% (16) REG. SEASON RECORD: 122-74-0 (.622) 0-0-0 (.000) Red Zone Defense—TD Pct. 56.4% (28) 50.9% (16) POSTSEASON RECORD: 8-5 (.615) 0-0 (.000) OVERALL RECORD: 130-79-0 (.622) 0-0-0 (.000) Takeaways 36 (4) 31 (7t) Giveaways 16 (1) 30 (20t) Turnover Ratio +20 (2) +1 (14t) BRONCOS/LIONS ALL-TIME RESULTS (REG. SEASON) Date W/L Score Site BRONCOS/LIONS PRESEASON SERIES BREAKDOWN Nov. 7, 1971 L Detroit 24, at Denver 20 Mile High Stadium Nov. 28, 1974 W Denver 31, at Detroit 27 Tiger Stadium Series Meetings: 3 Nov. 23, 1978 L at Detroit 17, Denver 14 Silverdome Broncos Record: 2-1-0 (Home: 1-0 / Away: 0-0 / Neutral: 1-1) Oct. 11, 1981 W at Denver 27, Detroit 21 Mile High Stadium First Game: at Den. 13, Det. 7 (8/5/67) Oct. 7, 1984 W Denver 28, at Detroit 7 Silverdome Last Game: Det. 14, Den. 3 (7/27/91 - HOF Game) Current Streak: Lost 1 Nov. 1, 1987 W at Denver 34, Detroit 0 Mile High Stadium Longest Den. Win Streak: 2 (8/5/67 – 7/24/76) Nov. 22, 1990 L at Detroit 40, Denver 27 Silverdome Longest Det. Win Streak: 1 (7/27/91) Dec. 25, 1999 W Denver 17, at Detroit 7 Silverdome Last Den. Home Win: at Den. 13, Det. 7 (8/5/67) Sept. 28, 2003 W at Denver 20, Detroit 16 INVESCO Field at Mile High Last Den. Home Loss: None Last Den. Road Win: None BRONCOS OVERALL RECORD: 6-3-0 (.667) / (Home: 3-1 / Away: 3-2) Last Den. Road Loss: None Den. Shutouts: None Det. Shutouts: None Most Den. Points: 13 (8/5/67): at Den. 13, Det. 7 Most Det. Points: 14 (17/27/91): Det. 14, Den. 3 Total Den. Points: 26 Total Det. Points: 28 Average Den. Points: 8.7 NFL SCHEDULE - PRESEASON WEEK 1 Average Det. Points: 9.3 Largest Den. Win: 6 (8/5/67): at Den. 13, Det. 7 Thursday, August 10 Largest Det. Win: 11 (17/27/91): Det. 14, Den. 3 Indianapolis at St. Louis ...... 7:00p (CT) BRONCOS/LIONS ALL-TIME RESULTS (PRESEASON) Cleveland at Philadelphia ...... 7:30p (ET) Date W/L Score Site Friday, August 11 Aug. 5, 1967 W at Denver 13, Detroit 7 Univ. of Denver Stadium New England at Atlanta ...... 8:00p (ET) July 24, 1976 W Denver 10, Detroit 7 Fawcett Stadium (HOF Game)* Denver at Detroit ...... 7:30p (ET) July 27, 1991 L Detroit 14, Denver 3 Fawcett Stadium (HOF Game)* at Tampa Bay ...... 7:30p (ET) * - Game played in Canton, Ohio. at Baltimore ...... 8:00p (ET) Chicago at San Francisco ...... 7:00p (PT) NOTES FROM DENVER’S THREE PRESEASON GAMES WITH DETROIT Saturday, August 12 Pittsburgh at Arizona ...... 1:00p (MST) DETROIT 14, DENVER 3 (July 27, 1991 - HALL OF FAME GAME) Buffalo at Carolina ...... 7:30p (ET) Lions WR Jeff Campbell catches passes of 38 and 41 Jacksonville at ...... 7:30p (ET) yards in the second quarter after Denver K Jeff Treadwell put the Kansas City at Houston ...... 7:00p (CT) Broncos ahead with a first-quarter field goal. New Orleans at Tennessee ...... 7:00p (CT) DENVER 10, DETROIT 7 (July 24, 1976 - HALL OF FAME GAME) Dallas at Seattle ...... 7:00p (PT) Broncos RB Jon Keyworth (1-yd. run) and K Jim Turner (47-yd. Green Bay at San Diego ...... 7:00p (PT) FG) combine to give Denver a 10-0 halftime lead before Detroit scores early in the fourth quarter. Sunday, August 13 at DENVER 13, DETROIT 7 (Aug. 5, 1967) Washington at Cincinnati ...... 8:00p (ET) FB Cookie Gilchrist’s 1-yard run gives Denver a 10-0 lead in the Monday, August 14 second quarter and the Broncos pull away on a late fourth-quar- Oakland at Minnesota ...... 7:00p (CT) ter field goal. DENVER at detroit — 3 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release GAME INFORMATION

TRACKING DENVER’S PRESEASON OPPONENTS Opponent Date/Result ‘05 Record Last Game Next Up Detroit Aug. 11 5-11 Lost at Pittsburgh, 35-21 (Jan. 1) vs. Denver (Aug. 11) Tennessee Aug. 19 9-7 Lost at Jacksonville, 40-13 (Jan. 1) vs. New Orleans (Aug. 12) Houston Aug. 27 2-14 Lost at San Francisco, 20-17 (Jan. 1) vs. Kansas City (Aug. 12) Arizona Aug. 31 5-11 Lost at Indianapolis, 17-13 (Jan. 1) vs. Pittsburgh (Aug. 12) 2005 regular-season record of this year’s preseason opponents: 21-43 (.328)

BRONCOS/LIONS REG. SEASON SERIES BREAKDOWN BRONCOS IN PRESEASON OPENERS Series Meetings: 9 1960-@Boston 43, Denver 6 1983-@Denver 10, Seattle 7 Denver Record: 6-3-0 (Home: 3-1 / Away: 3-2) 1961-@Dallas 31, Denver 13 1984-Washington 16, @Denver 13 First Game: Det. 24, at Den. 20 (11/7/71) 1962-@Houston 33, Denver 17 1985-N.Y. Giants 30, @Denver 20 Last Game: at Den. 20, Det. 16 (9/28/03) 1963-@Denver 27, Houston 10 1986-New Orleans 10, @Denver 7 Current Streak: Won 2 1964-@San Diego 34, Denver 20 1987-L.A. Rams 28, Denver 27 (Am. Bwl.) Longest Den. Win Streak: 3 (10/11/81 – 11/1/87) 1965-Kansas City 30, @Denver 24 1988-Denver 40, @L.A. Rams 31 Longest Det. Win Streak: 1, 3x, last (11/22/90) 1966-Kansas City 32, @Denver 30 1989-@Denver 17, L.A. Rams 13 Last Den. Home Win: at Den. 20, Det. 16 (9/28/03) 1967-Miami 19, Denver 2 1990-Denver 10, Seattle 7 (Am. Bwl.) Last Den. Home Loss: Det. 24, at Den. 20 (11/7/71) 1968-@Denver 15, Cincinnati 13 1991-Detroit 14, Denver 3 (HOF Game) Last Den. Road Win: Den. 17, at Det. 7 (12/25/99) 1969-@Minnesota 26, Denver 6 1992-@ San Francisco 13, Denver 7 Last Den. Road Loss: Det. 40, Den. 27 (11/22/90) 1970-@Denver 26, St. Louis 16 1993-Denver 23, @Tampa Bay 7 Den. Shutouts: 1, last (11/1/87): at Den. 34, Det. 0 1971-Washington 17, @Denver 13 1994-L.A. Raiders 25, Den. 22 (Am. Bwl.) Det. Shutouts: None 1972-@Washington 41, Denver 0 1995-@Denver 9, San Francisco 7 Most Den. Points: 34 (11/1/87): at Den. 34, Det. 0 1973-@Washington 14, Denver 10 1996-Denver 20, @San Francisco 17 Most Det. Points: 40 (11/22/90): Det. 40, Den. 27 1974-N.Y. Jets 41, @Denver 19 1997-@Denver 31, Buffalo 10 Total Den. Points: 218 1975-Baltimore 23, @Denver 20 1998-Denver 20, @St. Louis 13 Total Det. Points: 159 1976-Denver 10, Detroit 7 (HOF Game) 1999-Denver 20, San Diego 17 (Am. Bwl.) Average Den. Points: 24.2 1977-@Denver 14, Baltimore 8 2000-Denver 31, @Arizona 17 Average Det. Points: 17.7 1978-Denver 17, @Houston 12 2001-Denver 20, @Dallas 6 Largest Den. Win: 34 (11/1/87): at Den. 34, Det. 0 1979-@Dallas 7, Denver 6 2002-Denver 27, @Chicago 3 Largest Det. Win: 13 (11/22/90): Det. 40, Den. 27 1980-@Denver 17, Cincinnati 6 2003-Denver 20, @Houston 12 1981-N.Y. Jets 33, @Denver 7 2004-Washington 20, Denver 17 (HOF Game) BRONCOS PRESEASON OPENER BREAKDOWN 1982-Denver 33, @L.A. Rams 20 2005-Denver 20, @Houston 14 Openers: 46 SHANAHAN SHINES IN PRESEASON OPENERS Denver Overall Record: 23-23 (9-9 home; 11-7 away; 3-7 neutral) First Opener: at Boston 43, Denver 6 (8/5/60) Under Head Coach Mike Shanahan, the Broncos have posted a 10- Last Opener: Denver 20, at Houston 13 (8/13/05) 1 (.909) record in the opening game of preseason action dating Current Streak: Won 1 back to 1995. What is even more impressive is the fact that eight of Longest Den Win Streak: 9, 1995-2003 those victories have come in games away from Denver (7 road Longest Opp. Win Streak: 5, 1971-75 Last Den. Home Win: at Denver 31, Buffalo 10 (7/26/97) games and the American Bowl in 1999). Last Den. Home Loss: New Orleans 10, at Denver 7 (8/9/86) The Broncos posted a franchise best nine-game winning streak in Last Den. Road Win: Denver 20, at Houston 13 (8/13/05) preseason openers to begin the Shanahan era (1995-2003) before Last Den. Road Loss: at San Francisco 13, Denver 7 (8/3/92) losing to Washington 20-17 in the Hall of Fame Game during the Den. Shutouts: None 2004 preseason. The club most recently rebounded with a 20-14 Opp. Shutouts: 1 (8/11/72) at Was. 41, Denver 0 Most Broncos Points: 40 (8/3/88) Denver 40, at L.A. Rams 31 victory at Houston in the first game of the 2005 preseason. Most Opponent Points: 43 (8/5/60) Boston 43, Denver 6 Total Den. Points: 786 Total Opp. Points: 853 Average Den. Points: 17.1 Average Opp. Points: 18.5 Largest Den. Win: 24 (8/10/02) Denver 27, at Chicago 3 Largest Opp. Win: 41 (8/11/72) at Washington 41, Denver 0

DENVER at detroit — 4 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release GAME INFORMATION

TRACKING DENVER’S REGULAR-SEASON OPPONENTS Opponent Date/Result ‘05 Record Last Game Next Up St. Louis Sept. 10 6-10 Won at Dallas, 20-10 (Jan. 1) vs. Indianapolis (Aug. 10) Kansas City Sept. 17, Nov. 23 10-6 Won vs. Cincinnati, 37-3 (Jan. 1) at Houston (Aug. 12) New England Sept. 24 10-6 Lost at Denver, 27-13 (Jan. 14 - Div. Play.) at Atlanta (Aug. 11) Baltimore Oct. 9 6-10 Lost at Cleveland, 20-16 (Jan. 1) vs. N.Y. Giants (Aug. 11) Oakland Oct. 15, Nov. 12 4-12 Won vs. Philadelphia, 16-10 (Aug. 6) at Minnesota (Aug.14) Cleveland Oct. 22 6-10 Won vs. Baltimore, 20-16 (Jan. 1) at Philadelphia (Aug. 10) Indianapolis Oct. 29 14-2 Lost vs. Pittsburgh, 21-18 (Jan. 15 - Div. Play.) at St. Louis (Aug. 10) Pittsburgh Nov. 5 11-5 Won vs. Seattle, 21-10 (Feb. 5 - S.B.) at Arizona (Aug. 12) San Diego Nov. 19, Dec. 10 9-7 Lost vs. Denver, 23-7 (Dec. 31) vs. Green Bay (Aug. 12) Seattle Dec. 3 13-3 Lost vs. Pittsburgh, 21-10 (Feb. 5 - S.B.) vs. Dallas (Aug. 12) Arizona Dec. 17 5-11 Lost at Indianapolis, 17-13 (Jan. 1) vs. Pittsburgh (Aug. 12) Cincinnati Dec. 24 11-5 Lost vs. Pittsburgh, 31-17 (Jan. 7 - W.C. Play.) vs. Washington (Aug. 13) San Francisco Dec. 31 4-12 Won vs. Houston, 20-17 (Jan. 1) vs. Chicago (Aug. 11) 2005 regular-season record of this year’s regular-season opponents: 132-124 (.516)

ON THE ROAD, AGAIN BAILEY BROTHERS The Broncos will begin their preseason away from Denver for the For the first time in his NFL career, Broncos cornerback Champ ninth consecutive year when the club takes the field in Detroit on Bailey on Friday is scheduled to play against his younger brother, Friday. During this time, Denver has played six road games in addi- Lions linebacker Boss Bailey. tion to competing in the 1999 American Bowl in Sydney, Australia, The two players both starred at Charlton County High School in and the 2004 Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Folkston, Ga., and later at the University of Georgia. Their one over- The Broncos have won their last eight preseason road openers lapping season on the Bulldogs’ roster occurred in 1998 when (excluding the Hall of Fame Game and the American Bowl). The last Champ was a junior and Boss was a freshman. Champ was select- time the Broncos lost a “true” road preseason opener was in 1992 ed by Washington in the first round (7th overall) of the 1999 NFL when the 49ers defeated Denver 13-7 at Candlestick Park. Draft while Boss was taken by Detroit in the second round (34th Denver’s last home preseason opener was in 1997 when it defeat- overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft. ed Buffalo 31-10 at Mile High Stadium. The two Baileys also have an older brother, Ronald, who was a starting cornerback at Georgia during his time at the school from FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 1995-97. Denver has won its last seven preseason games played on a Friday and has a 21-23 all-time record on Fridays in exhibition play. BRONCOS FACE MARINELLI IN DEBUT Under Head Coach Mike Shanahan, Denver lost its first two Friday Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli, who spent the last 10 years as preseason games (1 in 1995 and 1 in '96) but has since been unde- an assistant coach with the Buccaneers instructing their defensive feated on that day of the week in exhibition play for a 7-2 record on line, is set to make is NFL head coaching debut on Friday against the day in the preseason during Shanahan's 11 seasons with the the Broncos. team. The last time Denver faced a coach making his NFL head coach- This season will mark the first time since Aug. 5, 1983, that the ing debut in a preseason opener was in 1999 against the Chargers, Broncos have began the preseason on a Friday. In that contest, who were coached by Mike Riley. The Broncos won that American Denver defeated Seattle 10-7 at Mile High Stadium. Bowl contest 20-17 in Sydney, Australia. BRONCOS SEVEN-GAME FRIDAY PRESEASON WINNING STREAK Date Opponent Result Aug. 14, 1998 vs. New Orleans W, 17-10 Sept. 3, 1999 vs. San Francisco W, 34-3 Aug. 25, 2000 at San Francisco W, 28-24 Aug. 31, 2001 vs. San Francisco W, 35-7 Aug. 29, 2003 vs. Seattle W, 20-3 Aug. 27, 2004 vs. Houston W, 31-17 Sept. 2, 2005 at Arizona W, 30-21

DENVER at detroit — 5 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release GAME INFORMATION Assistant Jeremy Bates in 2005… Broncos RB Ron Dayne and BRONCOS/LIONS CONNECTIONS Lions TE teamed up as New York Giants from 2000- FORMER DENVER BRONCOS 02… Lions LB Donté Curry was a part of the 2001 Washington Lions S Kenoy Kennedy was a member of the Broncos from 2000- Redskins along with Broncos DE Kenard Lang, CB Champ Bailey 04. and TE Stephen Alexander…Lions S Vernon Fox was teammates with Broncos TE Stephen Alexander on the San Diego Chargers FORMER DETROIT LIONS from 2002-03… Lions QB Jon Kitna and Broncos LB Broncos TE Stephen Alexander spent the 2004 season with the both played for the from 2004-2005… Broncos Detroit Lions before signing with Denver as an unrestricted free WR Javon Walker teamed up with Lions LB Paris Lenon on the agent… Broncos WR David Kircus was drafted by the Detroit Lions from 2002-05… Lions S Jon McGraw and in 2003 and played with the club throughout the 2004 season… Broncos S Nick Ferguson played in the New York Jets’ defensive Broncos FB Kyle Johnson was on Detroit's in 2002 backfield for the 2002 season… Lions T Rex Tucker played for the before being signed by Denver a month later. alongside Broncos WR David Terrell (2001-04) as FROM DENVER AND THE SURROUNDING AREA well LB Keith Burns and P (1999)… Detroit T Ross Lions QB Joel Klatt was born in Arvada, Colo., and played at the Verba played with the Cleveland Browns alongside Broncos DT University of Colorado from 2002-05. Gerard Warren (2001-04), DE Kenard Lang (2002-05), TE Chad Mustard (2003-04), DT Michael Myers (2003-04) and T Javiar COMMON HIGH SCHOOLS Collins, DE Ebenezer Ekuban and DT Amon Gordon (2004). Broncos CB Champ Bailey is the older brother of Lions LB Boss Bailey, and the two attended Charlton County High School in CROSSING PATHS (COLLEGE) Folkston, Ga. Broncos CB Champ Bailey is the older brother of Lions LB Boss Bailey, and the two played at the University of Georgia together in FROM DETROIT AND THE SURROUNDING AREA 1998... Broncos Linebackers Coach Kirk Doll coached at Arizona Broncos WR David Terrell attended the University of Michigan State University alongside Lions Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz from 1998-2000 along with fellow Broncos LB Ian Gold, who from 1983-1984 and from 1986-1991… Lions Defensive played at the University of Michigan from 1996-99 and is from Ann Coordinator and Linebackers Coach Phil Snow Arbor, Mich... Gold attended Belleville High School in Belleville, coached at when Broncos QB Jake Mich… Broncos LB Kevin Harrison attended Eastern Michigan Plummer was the Sun Devils’ signal caller from 1993-96… Lions University from 2001-04 and was born in Belleville, Mich., also Linebackers Coach Phil Snow oversaw the University of attending Belleville High School… Broncos WR David Kircus Washington cornerbacks in 2003, tutoring Broncos CB Roc attended Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Mich., from Alexander... Lions T Jeff Backus and DE James Hall were team- 1999-2002 and was born in Mount Clemens, Mich., attending Imlay mates at the University of Michigan with Broncos LB Ian Gold and City High School…Broncos TE Tony Scheffler attended Western WR David Terrell... Broncos T George Foster played at the Michigan University from 2002-2005... Scheffler was born in University of Georgia with Lions LB Boss Bailey from 1999-2002... Morenci, Mich., and attended Chelsea High School… Broncos QB Broncos DE Ebenezer Ekuban teamed up with Lions CB Dré Bly at Bradlee Van Pelt was born in Owosso, Mich., and began his colle- the University of North Carolina from 1996-98... Broncos LB Al giate career at Michigan State before transferring to Colorado State. Wilson and Lions RB Shawn Bryson joined forces at the University CROSSING PATHS (PRO) of Tennessee from 1995-1998... Broncos CB Antwaun Rogers and Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli served on the Tampa Bay Lions T Kelly Butler were teammates at Purdue University from Buccaneers’ coaching staff along with Broncos Offensive Assistant 2001-03…. Broncos DE Courtney Brown and Lions WR Eddie Jeremy Bates from 2002-04…Marinelli's stint also coincided with Drummond played together at Penn State from 1998-99….Lions Broncos S John Lynch, LB Nate Webster and T Cornell Green as CB Jamar Fletcher joined Broncos RB Ron Dayne at the University well as LBs Keith Burns and Ian Gold in 2004… Lynch, Webster, of Wisconsin from 1998-99. and Green joined Marinelli on the Buccaneers’ 2002 squad that won XXXVII... Lions Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz spent 1997-1998 in the same capacity with the Washington Redskins along with Broncos DE Kenard Lang (1997-2001) and TE Stephen Alexander (1998-2001)… In 1994, the New York Jets’ defensive line was coached by Broncos Defensive Coordinator Larry Coyer while their offensive line was tutored by Lions Offensive Line Coach … Lions Defensive Coordinator Donnie Henderson previously filled the same position for the New York Jets when he worked alongside Broncos Offensive

DENVER at detroit — 6 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release SEASON NOTES

2005 YEAR IN REVIEW 2005 RESULTS The Denver Broncos in 2005 turned in another outstanding sea- PRESEASON Wk. Day Date Opponent Site Result Rec. son, capturing the franchise's 10th AFC West title with a 13-3 reg- 1 Sat. Aug. 13 at Houston Reliant Stadium W 20-14 1-0 ular-season record and making their third consecutive playoff 2 Sat. Aug. 20 SAN FRANCISCO INVESCO Field at Mile High W 26-21 2-0 appearance. Denver won its first postseason game since the 1998 3 Sat. Aug. 27 INDIANAPOLIS INVESCO Field at Mile High W 37-24 3-0 campaign—and first ever at INVESCO Field at Mile High—with a 4 Fri. Sept. 2 at Arizona Sun Devil Stadium W 30-21 4-0 REGULAR SEASON Divisional round victory over New England that propelled the team Wk. Day Date Opponent Site Time/Result Rec. to the AFC Championship Game. 1 Sun. Sept. 11 at Stadium L 34-10 0-1 Playing in their eighth AFC title game and hosting the contest for 2 Sun. Sept. 18 SAN DIEGO INVESCO Field at Mile High W 20-17 1-1 3 Mon. Sept. 26 KANSAS CITY INVESCO Field at Mile High W 30-10 2-1 the fifth time, the Broncos had their 11-game overall home winning 4 Sun. Oct. 2 at Jacksonville ALLTEL Stadium W 20-7 3-1 streak snapped with a 34-17 defeat at the hands of the Pittsburgh 5 Sun. Oct. 9 WASHINGTON INVESCO Field at Mile High W 21-19 4-1 Steelers. Although Denver came up one game short of reaching 6 Sun. Oct. 16 NEW ENGLAND INVESCO Field at Mile High W 28-20 5-1 7 Sun. Oct. 23 at N.Y. Giants Giants Stadium L 24-23 5-2 Super Bowl XL, its 2005 season featured plenty of accomplish- 8 Sun. Oct. 30 PHILADELPHIA INVESCO Field at Mile High W 49-21 6-2 ments that have the club optimistic for 2006. 9 Bye 10 Sun. Nov. 13 at Oakland McAfee Coliseum W 31-17 7-2 HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BRONCOS' 2005 SEASON: 11 Sun. Nov. 20 N.Y. JETS INVESCO Field at Mile High W 27-0 8-2 * - Denver recorded its second consecutive No. 5 NFL ranking in 12 Thu. Nov. 24 at Dallas Texas Stadium W 24-21 OT 9-2 overall offense (360.4 ypg.), marking the franchise's ninth top-10 13 Sun. Dec. 4 at Kansas City Arrowhead Stadium L 31-27 9-3 offensive ranking in Mike Shanahan's 11 seasons (1995-Present) 14 Sun. Dec. 11 BALTIMORE INVESCO Field at Mile High W 12-10 10-3 15 Sat. Dec. 17 at Buffalo Ralph Wilson Stadium W 28-17 11-3 as the Broncos' head coach. 16 Sat. Dec. 24 OAKLAND INVESCO Field at Mile High W 22-3 12-3 * - Denver ranked second in the NFL in rushing (158.7 ypg.) and 17 Sat. Dec. 31 at San Diego Qualcomm Stadium W 23-7 13-3 had the second-highest rushing total (2,539 yds.) in team annals. POSTSEASON * - The Broncos posted their 10th individual 1,000-yard rushing Wk. Day Date Opponent Site Time/Result Rec. 19 Sat. Jan. 14 NEW ENGLAND INVESCO Field at Mile High W 27-13 14-3 season since 1995 with Mike Anderson's 1,014 yards. 20 Sun. Jan. 22 PITTSBURGH INVESCO Field at Mile High L 34-17 14-4 * - The Broncos nearly became only the fourth team in NFL histo- ry and the first since Cleveland in 1985 to have two 1,000-yard MISCELLANEOUS NOTES FROM 2005 rushers, but Tatum Bell (921 yds.) fell 79 yards short of joining Mike Anderson with 1,000 rushing yards. The Broncos' +29 turnover ratio improvement from 2004 to 2005 * - Denver's run defense (85.2 ypg.) ranked second in the NFL and was the best in the NFL, and the team ranked second in the league recorded the third-best average in franchise history. with a +20 ratio… Denver had the fewest giveaways (16) in the NFL * - Denver ranked second in the NFL with a +20 turnover ratio and in 2005 and set a team record with that total… WR Rod Smith went set a franchise record with a league-low 16 giveaways. above the 1,000-yard receiving mark (1,105 yds.) for the eighth * - The Broncos posted their fifth undefeated home schedule and time in his career, and that total ties former Jaguars WR Jimmy extended their regular-season home winning streak to 10 games, Smith for the most in the NFL since 1997… The Broncos had both tying Seattle for the longest active streak in the NFL. the NFL's No. 2 rushing offense (158.7 ypg.) and rushing defense * - Quarterback Jake Plummer ranked second in the NFL in inter- (85.2 ypg.) and were one of three teams (Pittsburgh and Seattle) to ception percentage (1.5%) and had the NFL's fourth-longest streak rank in the top-5 in both categories… The Broncos became the (229) of passes without an since 1996. third team in NFL history to have two 900+yard running backs * - Cornerback Champ Bailey led Denver with a career-high eight (Mike Anderson, Tatum Bell), a 1,000-yard receiver (Rod Smith) interceptions, a total that tied for fourth in the league and ranked and a 3,000-yard passer (Jake Plummer) in the same season… fifth in team history. Broncos CB Champ Bailey tied for fourth in the NFL with eight inter- * - The Broncos had four players compete in the Pro Bowl: cor- ceptions and ranked fifth in franchise history with that single-sea- nerback Champ Bailey, safety John Lynch, wide receiver Rod Smith son total… Bailey recorded the longest non-scoring interception and linebacker Al Wilson. Quarterback Jake Plummer was selected return (100 yds.) and second-longest overall interception return in to the game as an alternate but could not play due to an injury. NFL postseason history in an AFC Divisional Playoff Game against New England… The average drive start for Denver opponents in the regular season was their own 27.9-yard line, marking the second- best such figure in the league… Denver's +119 first-half scoring differential led the NFL.

DENVER at detroit — 7 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release SEASON NOTES

BRONCOS 2006 TRAINING CAMP INFORMATION REMAINING SCHEDULE FOR The Broncos’ 2006 training camp is being held at the club’s train- THE BRONCOS’ 2006 TRAINING CAMP ing facility in Englewood, Colo. Training camp began for the MORNING AFTERNOON Broncos on July 28, and the final practice of camp is Aug. 18. Monday, Aug. 7 ...... 8:30 ...... 3:50 TRAINING CAMP MEDIA INFORMATION Tuesday, Aug. 8 ...... 8:30 ...... 3:40 (Special Teams) Parking: Members of the media will park in Lot A, which is locat- Wednesday, Aug. 9 . . . .8:30 ...... 3:50 ed to the west of the Broncos’ training facility. The media parking Thursday, Aug. 10 . . . . .8:30 ...... Depart for Detroit area will be supervised by security. A limited number of parking Friday, Aug. 11 Denver at Detroit (7:30 pm) passes will be available for media organizations to pick up at Saturday, Aug. 12 . . . . .OFF ...... OFF Thursday’s barbeque. Sunday, Aug. 13 ...... OFF ...... 2:45 Media Access to Practice: Media access will be granted by camp Monday, Aug. 14 ...... 8:30 ...... 3:50 credentials, which will be issued by the Broncos’ media relations Tuesday, Aug. 15 ...... 8:30 ...... 3:40 (Special Teams) department. The credentials are valid for the duration of training Wednesday, Aug. 16 . . .8:30 ...... 3:50 camp and will include a photo ID. Media members may obtain cre- Thursday, Aug. 17 . . . . .8:30 ...... 3:40 (Special Teams) dentials for training camp in the Broncos’ press room, where a Friday, Aug. 18 ...... 8:30 ...... OFF member of the media relations department will be present to assist BREAK CAMP them. Please note that these credentials will not be valid for games at INVESCO Field at Mile High. On their first visit, media members PREVIOUS TRAINING CAMP SITES are encouraged to allow a few extra minutes to get their camp press credential, which will be processed on site upon their arrival. Access For the fourth consecutive year, the Broncos are holding their is strictly limited to working media only, and the media may not training camp at their practice facility (Paul D. Bowlen Memorial bring guests to practice. In line with regular Broncos policy, any cell Broncos Centre) in Englewood, Colo. phone activity of any type is prohibited at practice. No tripods can Below is a look at where the team has conducted its training camp be used except on the sidewalk and patio areas, and the press can- since the franchise’s first year in 1960. not be “between fields” if there is any activity on both of those fields. BRONCOS ALL-TIME TRAINING CAMP SITES Live Shot Locations: The primary designated area for live shots is Years Site Location located in front of the helmet on the outside wall in front of the 1960-61 Colorado School of Mines Golden, Colo. Broncos’ training facility. The area immediately inside the press 1962-64 Colorado State University Fort Collins, Colo. gate, off the field and immediately adjacent to the wall will be avail- 1965-66 Colorado School of Mines Golden, Colo. able for live shots only if the team is completely finished and no one 1967-71 Broncos headquarters Adams County, Colo. is on the playing field. 1972-75 California Poly-Pomona Pomona, Calif. Editing Trailers for Local TV Stations: Editing trailers will be locat- 1976-81 Colorado State University Fort Collins, Colo. ed in the handicapped parking spaces in the main parking lot of the 1982-2002 University of Northern Colorado Greeley, Colo. facility only as specifically approved by the Broncos’ media relations 2003-06 Paul D. Bowlen Memorial Broncos Centre Englewood, Colo. department. No telephone lines will be available from the Broncos. WHAT THEY’RE SAYING AT THE These editing trailers will remain in the same locations for their dura- tion, and the Broncos have been in contact with all local stations in BRONCOS’ 2006 TRAINING CAMP advance of training camp to schedule the moving-in process for these HEAD COACH MIKE SHANAHAN trailers. Those stations that do not require a microwave truck due to On WR Rod Smith (7/29/06) existing wiring inside the team’s facility should not bring one because “There are very few guys like Rod Smith. I’ve been fortunate to be such parking will be extremely limited. around a guy like for a few years who had Rod Smith’s Mike Shanahan Availability: Head Coach Mike Shanahan will be dedication in the offseason. There’s only one way you play the way available to the press in a group setting after each practice, exclud- Rod has played throughout his career, and that’s to make a commit- ing special-teams practices, as in past years. Requests for individ- ment in the offseason. It’s been 12 years in a row where he hasn’t ual interviews with Coach Shanahan should be made through the missed a workout. When you do that, you have talent, you’re very club’s media relations department. intelligent and you’re a team player, you usually stay around for a Player Access: As in previous camps, players will be available while.” coming off the practice field, and the locker room will be closed. On the play of CB Champ Bailey in training camp (7/30/06) During the lunch period, players will be available adjacent to the “Well, that’s why we got him—because he’s pretty special. He’s a dining hall on the patio area. There will be no evening access to guy that most people will never get a chance to coach. He’s as good players or coaches. as it gets. He’ll be in the Hall of Fame someday.”

DENVER at detroit — 8 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release SEASON NOTES On selecting the Broncos’ 53-man roster (8/3/06) LB AL WILSON “We try to keep the best 53 (players). Talk about offensive line- On making a big hit (8/1/06) men, , defensive linemen. We will evaluate everybody “It’s the explosive nature, but at the same time not being afraid to and sometimes we may go heavy at a position just because you make a tackle and not being afraid of contact. You see a lot of guys have so much depth and you feel that it is so hard to get. Other stop their feet before they make tackles. A lot of times it’s fear, but times, we will go a little less at a position because we feel the worth sometimes it’s just breaking down and making tackles. It’s all about is a little bit more than other positions so it changes year to year.” angle, positioning and things like that.” On the progress of rookie QB (8/5/06) “He’s very sharp. He picks things up quickly and it’s not his first LB KEITH BURNS week. He picks it up as quickly as anyone. He’s very, very sharp, On the importance of special teams (8/2/06) very accustomed to the passing game and very impressive with “Special teams is like that third wheel that many people don’t where he is at this time.” notice when their driving on a motorcycle. Offense has the front QUARTERBACK JAKE PLUMMER side and defense has the back side, special teams are that third wheel. We keep it balanced.” On practicing in front of fans during training camp (8/4/06) “You got to like it when the fans come out. We practice so much WR JAVON WALKER without anybody out here and when there is a big play a couple On what makes a successful receiver (8/1/06) guys say, ‘Hey, all right’ and then you make just a basic throw and “What makes the difference is when guys have a defensive back the crowd goes crazy. You have got to like that. They are getting into on them, but are still able to make plays. When you’ve got the it and are excited, just like we are, for the season.” Champ Baileys out there, it’s not to often you get free, so when you On his approach toward training camp (8/4/06) get the opportunity to make a play when someone’s all over you, “You get to where you get into your 10th camp and you have got you’ve got to make the play. That’s why every day I’m on those jug to be relaxed because this stuff is very important and it is all geared machines putting my body and hands in certain situations where up toward the season, of which I have been through many, so you plays can be made.” know how to prepare for that. You have got to be relaxed, you have to keep these guys (teammates) relaxed and we have a lot of stuff QB JAY CUTLER on our plates.” On his grasp of the Broncos’ offense (8/5/06) S JOHN LYNCH “I feel really good about it right now... It is definitely slowing down. I am starting to see things right before the snap. I have been On training camp (7/29/06) seeing rolls and where everyone is going. It is taking time, but it is “I think you learn more and more as you go through training camp coming.” that every minute counts, every snap counts. We talked last night about the habits we form out here are going to decide who is in the MEET THE BRONCOS’ 2006 DRAFT CLASS championship because you are on such an even playing field. In the league these days, it’s who works the best out here, who comes Below is a look at the Broncos’ seven selections in the 2006 NFL together the best and I think we are off to a good start.” Draft. On practicing in pads (7/29/06) Rd. Choice Pos. Player College 1 11 QB Jay Cutler Vanderbilt “The thing that has always amazed me about football is you can Named 2005 SEC Offensive Player of the Year (coaches and media) and set play for years upon years but the first time you put on those shoul- virtually every school career passing record. der pads, it feels like you have never had them on before. It’s impor- tant to get out there and have them on and get used to moving 2 61 TE Tony Scheffler Western Michigan Placed fourth in voting for the 2005 John Mackey Award (nation’s best TE). around well in them.” 4a 119 WR Central CB CHAMP BAILEY Ranked 11th in the nation in receiving yards (1,195) in 2005. On being ready for the season (7/30/06) 4b 126 DL Louisville “If you step out there and you are not ready, then what are you Led the nation with 20 sacks in 2005 as the Bronko Nagurski Award win- doing out there? I am going to be ready. I am ready for whatever ner (nation’s outstanding defensive player). they throw at me right now. Whether we play a game tomorrow or 4c 130 WR Akron in two months, I am ready. It doesn’t matter. The games can come Started 20 games at free safety in addition to playing wide receiver. when they come and I am going to be ready.” 5 161 G North Dakota Voted an Associated Press All-Pro as both a junior and senior. 6 198 C Minnesota Received the Outland Trophy (nation’s outstanding interior lineman) and Rimington Trophy (nation’s outstanding center) in 2005. DENVER at detroit — 9 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release HEAD COACH MIKE SHANAHAN ike Shanahan in 2006 begins his 12th season as head coach Mof the Denver Broncos, and his first decade of measurement SHANAHAN’S NFL COACHING CAREER against the game's all-time coaches places him among the pro foot- OVERALL YEAR: 14th as a Head Coach (12th with Denver) ball elite. CAREER REG. SEASON HEAD COACHING RECORD: 122-74-0 (.622) In the 86-year history of professional football, there are just four CAREER POSTSEASON HEAD COACHING RECORD: 8-5 (.615) coaches who have spent at least 10 seasons with one team and in OVERALL HEAD COACHING RECORD: 130-79-0 (.622) that period have had more world championship seasons than los- REG. SEASON RECORD w/DENVER (HEAD COACH): 114-62 (.648) ing campaigns. POSTSEASON RECORD w/DENVER (HEAD COACH): 8-5 (.615) That list includes only Paul Brown with Cleveland (17 seasons, OVERALL RECORD w/DENVER (HEAD COACH): 122-67-0 (.646) three championships, one losing season, Hall of Fame member), PLAYOFF APPEARANCES (HEAD COACH): 7 with Washington (14 seasons, three championships, two DIVISION TITLES (HEAD COACH): 3 losing seasons, Hall of Fame member), John Madden with Oakland SUPER BOWLS WON (HEAD COACH): 2 (‘97 and ‘98 w/Denver) (10 seasons, one championship, no losing seasons, Hall of Fame SUPER BOWLS WON (ASSISTANT): 1 (‘94 w/San Francisco) member), and Mike Shanahan with the Broncos (11 seasons, two TOTAL SUPER BOWLS WON: 3 championships, one losing season). ular seasons (1996-98) at home, just the second team ever to be Under Shanahan's superb guidance, the Broncos have had stag- undefeated and untied at home in three consecutive years. gering team accomplishments, including: Posting the most wins in During his first 11 seasons as the Broncos’ head coach (1995- pro football history in a two-year period, seasons in which the club 2005), the Broncos led the NFL in scoring (25.2 ppg., 4,440 points), won back-to-back Super Bowls (33 in 1997-98; New England has rushing yards (25,022, 142.2 per game) and total offense (64,235 since won 34 in 2003-04); Posting the most wins in pro football yards, 365.0 per game). history in a three-year period (46 in 1998); Winning 18 consecutive In 2004, he joined the exclusive club of head coaches to post 100 games over 1997-98 to tie the all-time NFL record at that time for wins in his first 10 seasons with one club, finishing the campaign consecutive wins; And going undefeated for three consecutive reg- and decade tied for fourth on this ultra-impressive list of 12 coach- es, six of whom are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. SHANAHAN YEAR-BY-YEAR He also has brought great stability to the Denver franchise with his 12 years with the club ranking as the third-longest tenure by an Yr. Position Team Record active coach with his current team (trailing only Bill Cowher of 1975 Assistant Coach University of Oklahoma 10-1 Pittsburgh and Jeff Fisher of Tennessee). 1976 Assistant Coach University of Oklahoma 9-2 1977 Backfield Coach Northern Arizona 9-2 No head coach in the NFL won more games than Mike 1978 Offensive Coordinator Eastern Illinois 9-2 Shanahan's 122 victories from 1995-2005, and his Broncos come 1979 Offensive Coordinator University of Minnesota 4-6-1 into 2006 determined to return to Super Bowl contention—both of 1980 Offensive Coordinator University of Florida 8-3 those qualities are directly attributable to leadership by arguably the 1981 Offensive Coordinator University of Florida 7-4 finest head coach and most fertile football mind in the game today. 1982 Offensive Coordinator University of Florida 8-3 Those 122 wins by Shanahan included seven consecutive in the 1983 Asst. Head Coach/O.C. University of Florida 8-2-1 1984 Receivers Coach Denver Broncos 13-3 playoffs (he is the only coach to have produced seven playoff wins 1985 Offensive Coordinator Denver Broncos 11-5 in two years) during the 1997 and 1998 Super Bowl seasons, years 1986 Offensive Coordinator Denver Broncos 11-5 in which he established himself among the game's sideline greats. 1987 Offensive Coordinator Denver Broncos 10-4-1 His postseason winning percentage is .615 on an 8-5 record. 1988 Head Coach Los Angeles Raiders 7-9 Shanahan elevated his career and the Broncos to new levels in 1989 Head Coach Los Angeles Raiders 1-3 1997 and 1998 as the intense and personable Denver Broncos head 1989 Quarterbacks Coach Denver Broncos 6-4 1990 Quarterbacks Coach Denver Broncos 5-11 coach made his mark on Super Bowl history, coming into the 2006 1991 Offensive Coordinator Denver Broncos 12-4 campaign as one of only 12 all-time head 1992 Offensive Coordinator 14-2 coaches with two Super Bowl victories. 1993 Offensive Coordinator San Francisco 49ers 10-6 Over the last 14 years (11 in Denver and the previous three in San 1994 Offensive Coordinator San Francisco 49ers 13-3 Francisco), Mike Shanahan's offenses have finished number one in 1995 Head Coach Denver Broncos 8-8 the NFL four times, second twice, third three times and fourth once; 1996 Head Coach Denver Broncos 13-3 in two of those campaigns Denver was just 17 and 83 yards short 1997 Head Coach Denver Broncos 12-4 1998 Head Coach Denver Broncos 14-2 of the number one spot. 1999 Head Coach Denver Broncos 6-10 During his NFL career, Shanahan has been a part of teams that 2000 Head Coach Denver Broncos 11-5 have played in 10 AFC or NFC Championship Games, in addition to 2001 Head Coach Denver Broncos 8-8 his six Super Bowl appearances, five with Denver and the Super 2002 Head Coach Denver Broncos 9-7 Bowl XXIX game with San Francisco. In his nine seasons coaching 2003 Head Coach Denver Broncos 10-6 at the collegiate level, Shanahan's teams participated in eight bowl 2004 Head Coach Denver Broncos 10-6 2005 Head Coach Denver Broncos 13-3 games, winning two national championships.

DENVER at detroit — 10 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release HEAD COACH MIKE SHANAHAN

TOP 25 NFL HEAD COACHES ALL-TIME IN OVERALL CAREER VICTORIES REGULAR SEASON POSTSEASON OVERALL Coach Years W L T Pct. W L Pct. W L T Pct. 1. 33 328 156 6 .677 19 17 .528 347 173 6 .666 2. George Halas 40 318 148 31 .682 6 3 .667 324 151 31 .682 3. 29 250 162 6 .607 20 16 .556 270 178 6 .603 4. Earl Lambeau 33 226 132 22 .631 3 2 .600 229 134 22 .631 5. 23 193 148 1 .566 16 8 .667 209 156 1 .572 6. Dan Reeves 23 190 165 2 .535 11 9 .550 201 174 2 .536 7. Chuck Knox 22 186 147 1 .558 7 11 .389 193 158 1 .550 8. Marty Schottenheimer 20 186 124 1 .600 5 12 .294 191 136 1 .584 9. Bill Parcells 18 163 123 1 .570 11 7 .611 174 130 1 .572 10. Paul Brown 21 166 100 6 .624 4 8 .333 170 108 6 .612 11. Bud Grant 18 158 96 5 .621 10 12 .455 168 108 5 .608 12. Joe Gibbs 14 140 76 0 .648 17 6 .739 157 82 0 .657 13. Marv Levy 17 143 112 0 .561 11 8 .579 154 120 0 .562 14. Bill Cowher 14 141 82 1 .632 12 9 .571 153 91 1 .627 15. Steve Owen 23 151 100 17 .602 2 8 .200 153 108 17 .586 16. Mike Holmgren 14 138 86 0 .616 11 9 .550 149 95 0 .611 17. Hank Stram 17 131 97 10 .574 5 3 .625 136 100 10 .576 18. Weeb Ewbank 20 130 129 7 .502 4 1 .800 134 130 7 .508 19. Mike Shanahan 13 122 74 0 .622 8 5 .615 130 79 0 .622 20. Mike Ditka 14 121 95 0 .560 6 6 .500 127 101 0 .557 21. Dick Vermeil 15 120 109 0 .524 6 5 .545 126 114 0 .525 22. Jim Mora 15 125 106 0 .541 0 6 .000 125 112 0 .527 23. George Seifert 11 114 62 0 .648 10 5 .667 124 67 0 .649 24. Sid Gillman 18 122 99 7 .552 1 5 .167 123 104 7 .542 25. George Allen 12 116 47 5 .712 2 7 .222 118 54 5 .686

CLIMBING THE CHARTS SHANAHAN STANDS SIXTH AMONG As illustrated in the above chart, Broncos Head Coach Mike ACTIVE COACHES IN CAREER VICTORIES Shanahan stands 19th in NFL history in career victories with 130 Mike Shanahan's 130 career victories (122 regular season, 8 (122 regular season, 8 postseason). postseason) rank as the sixth-highest total among active NFL Shanahan needs five wins to pass Weeb Ewbank (134 total) for coaches. 18th place in career victories. Ewbank coached for the Baltimore Colts from 1954-62 and the New York Jets from 1963-73. MOST WINS AMONG NFL HEAD COACHES, ACTIVE Win Shanahan is seven victories away from passing Hank Stram (136 Head Coach Yrs. Reg. Post. Tot. Pct. total) for 17th place all-time in career wins. Stram was the first 1. Marty Schottenheimer (S.D.) 20 186 5 191 .584 coach of the Chiefs (1960-74) and also coached for the New 2. Bill Parcells (Dal.) 18 163 11 174 .572 Orleans Saints (1976-77). 3. Joe Gibbs (Was.) 14 140 17 157 .657 4. Bill Cowher (Pit.) 14 141 12 153 .627 5. Mike Holmgren (Sea.) 14 137 11 149 .611 6. Mike Shanahan (Den.) 13 122 8 130 .622

DENVER at detroit — 11 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release HEAD COACH MIKE SHANAHAN

SHANAHAN SETS BRONCOS ALL-TIME WINS MARK DENVER TOPS IN WINS UNDER SHANAHAN With Denver's 12-10 win against Baltimore on Dec. 11, 2005, The Broncos have posted the most regular-season wins in the NFL Mike Shanahan became the Broncos' all-time leader in career victo- since 1995 under the direction of Head Coach Mike Shanahan. ries with 118. Shanahan, who now has 114 regular-season and Combined with eight postseason wins during that period, Denver eight postseason victories for 122 total wins as Denver's head enters the 2006 season tied with Green Bay for the most overall coach, entered the Broncos' game against the Ravens tied with Dan wins (122) in the NFL since 1995. Reeves in career wins. REGULAR-SEASON WINS, NFL, 1995-Pres. Reeves collected 117 victories as head coach of the Broncos from Team Reg. Wins 1981-92, 110 of which he earned in the regular season and seven 1. Denver 114 of which occurred in playoff action. 2. Green Bay 113 3. Pittsburgh 109 CAREER WINS BY BRONCOS HEAD COACHES, ALL-TIME 4. New England 107 Head Coach Yrs. Reg. Post. Total 5. Kansas City 102 1. Mike Shanahan 1995-Pres. 114-62-0 8-5 122-67-0 (.646) 2. Dan Reeves 1981-92 110-73-1 7-6 117-79-1 (.596) TOTAL WINS, NFL, 1995-Pres. 3. Red Miller 1977-80 40-22-0 2-3 42-25-0 (.627) Team Reg. Post Tot. 4. John Ralston 1972-76 34-33-3 0-0 34-33-3 (.507) 1. Denver 114 8 122 5. 1967-71 20-42-3 0-0 20-42-3 (.331) Green Bay 113 9 122 3. New England 107 13 120 SHANAHAN BRINGS THE MAGIC BACK Pittsburgh 109 11 120 TO THE MILE HIGH AREA 5. Philadelphia 99 8 107 Since taking over the coaching reins of the Broncos in 1995, Mike BRONCOS OFFENSE CLICKS UNDER SHANAHAN Shanahan has a 70-18 (.795) regular-season record at home, the best home winning percentage among head coaches in the Under Head Coach Mike Shanahan, the Broncos’ offensive suc- Broncos’ 46-year history. cess has been unmatched in the NFL. Denver leads the league in points, total yards, rushing yards and first downs. HOME WINNING PERCENTAGE, BRONCOS HEAD COACHES Head Coach (Years) Reg. Season Pct. POINTS SCORED, NFL, 1995-Pres. 1. Mike Shanahan (1995-present) 70-18 .795 Team Points 2. Dan Reeves (1981-92) 72-21 .774 1. Denver 4,440 3. Red Miller (1977-80) 22-9 .710 2. Green Bay 4,352 4. John Ralston (1972-76) 20-13-2 .600 3. Indianapolis 4,293 5. Wade Phillips (1993-94) 9-7 .563 4. Kansas City 4,259 5. Minnesota 4,223 SHANAHAN TOPS THE CHART TOTAL YARDS, NFL, 1995-Pres. Mike Shanahan's 11-year regular-season win percentage is cur- Team Tot. Yards rently first among active coaches in the league since 1995: 1. Denver 64,235 2. Minnesota 63,137 TOP RECORDS AMONG ACTIVE COACHES IN NFL, 1995-Present 3. Green Bay 61,571 Head Coach, Team (s) Record Pct. 4. St. Louis 61,482 1. Mike Shanahan, Denver 114-62 .648 5. Kansas City 61,418 2. Mike Holmgren, Green Bay/Seattle 111-65 .631 2. Bill Cowher, Pittsburgh 109-66-1 .622 RUSHING YARDS, NFL, 1995-Pres. 4. Jeff Fisher, Tennessee 96-80 .545 Team Rush Yards 1. Denver 25,022 2. Pittsburgh 23,972 3. Kansas City 22,483 4. San Francisco 21,640 5. Dallas 21,064 FIRST DOWNS, NFL, 1995-Pres. Team 1st Downs 1. Denver 3,734 2. Indianapolis 3,608 3. Kansas City 3,574 4. Green Bay 3,547 5. Minnesota 3,507

DENVER at detroit — 12 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release HEAD COACH MIKE SHANAHAN

SELECT COMPANY (PART 1) DENVER STRIKES FAST UNDER SHANAHAN Broncos Head Coach Mike Shanahan is one of four coaches in the Since Mike Shanahan became Denver's head coach before the history of the NFL who have spent at least 10 seasons with a team start of the 1995 season, the Broncos have not only scored the and in that period have had more world championship seasons than most points in the first quarter in the NFL, but they also have the losing campaigns. The three other coaches—Paul Brown, Joe biggest point-differential in the first quarter: Gibbs and John Madden—are all members of the Pro Football Hall BEST FIRST-QUARTER POINT-DIFFERENTIAL SINCE 1995 of Fame. Team Differential Points For Points Against COACHES WITH MORE CHAMPIONSHIPS THAN LOSING SEASONS 1. Denver +481 1,058 577 (MIN. 10 SEASONS) 2. Tennessee +207 872 665 Losing 3. Green Bay +152 786 634 Coach Years Champ. Seasons Mike Shanahan, Den. 1995-2005 (11) 2 1 FREQUENT PLAYOFF TRIPS Paul Brown, Cle. 1946-62 (17) 3 1 Since becoming the Broncos’ head coach in 1995, Mike Shanahan Joe Gibbs, Was. 1981-92, ‘04-05 (14) 3 1 has led Denver to the postseason during seven different seasons. John Madden, Oak. 1969-78 (10) 1 0 That total ties for the third highest in the league during that period, SELECT COMPANY (PART 2) trailing only the eight playoff berths clinched by Green Bay and Indianapolis. In 2004, Mike Shanahan joined the exclusive club of head coach- es to post 100 wins in his first 10 seasons with one club, finishing MOST POSTSEASON BERTHS SINCE 1995 the campaign and decade tied for fourth on this ultra-impressive list Team No. Years with 108 total wins. 1. Green Bay 8 1995-98; 2001-04 Indianapolis 8 1995-96; 1999-2000; '02-05 COACHES WITH 100 WINS FOR ONE TEAM THROUGH THE 3. Denver 7 1996-98; 2000; '03-05 FIRST 10 SEASONS WITH THAT TEAM (including playoffs) New England 7 1996-98; 2001; '03-05 S.B. Philadelphia 7 1995-96; 2000-04 Team Years Reg Post Tot. Wins Pittsburgh 7 1995-97; 2001-02; '04-05 1. Joe Gibbs, Washington 1981-1990 101 12 113 2 2. John Madden, Raiders 1969-1978 103 9 112 1 In addition, the Broncos three consecutive trips (2003-05) to the Don Shula, Miami 1970-1979 104 8 112 2 postseason tie for the longest such streak in club annals, tying the 4. Mike Shanahan, Broncos 1995-2004 101 7 108 2 three years in a row the team made the postseason from 1996-98 George Seifert, S.F. 1989-1996 98 10 108 2 and 1977-79. Denver’s three consecutive trips to the postseason 6. Mike Ditka, Chicago 1982-1991 101 6 107 1 under Shanahan’s leadership trail only the Colts’ four playoff berths Marv Levy, Buffalo 1986-1995 96 11 107 0 in a row for the longest active streak in the NFL. 8. Bud Grant, Minnesota 1967-1976 98 8 106 0 9. Bill Cowher, Pittsburgh 1992-2001 99 6 105 0 CONSECUTIVE PLAYOFF APPEARANCES, ACTIVE NFL STREAKS 10. Marty Schottenheimer, K.C. 1989-1998 101 3 104 0 Team Consec. Yrs. 11. Bill Walsh, San Francisco 1979-1988 92 10 102 3 1. Indianapolis 4 12. Dennis Green, Minnesota 1992-2001 97 4 101 0 2. Denver 3 New England 3 FIRST QUARTER BELONGS TO SHANAHAN Seattle 3 5. Pittsburgh 2 Head Coach Mike Shanahan is third in NFL history in first-quarter leads. In Shanahan's 196 games coached, he has enjoyed a lead at MOST POSTSEASON WINS IN CLUB HISTORY the end of the first quarter 95 times (48.47%), which ranks third in league annals. Mike Shanahan, who in 2005 passed Dan Reeves for first place in overall wins by a Broncos head coach, took over sole possession of COACHES WITH THE HIGHEST PERCENTAGE OF first place on Denver's all-time postseason wins chart with a 27-13 1ST-QUARTER LEADS, NFL HISTORY victory against New England on Jan. 14. 1st-Qtr. Shanahan now owns an 8-5 career postseason record for a win- Coach Games Leads Pct. ning percentage of .615 that also is the best in team annals. 1. Greasy Neal 101 50 49.50 2. Jeff Fisher 179 87 48.60 CAREER POSTSEASON WINS BY BRONCOS HEAD COACHES, ALL-TIME 3. Mike Shanahan 196 95 48.47 Head Coach Yrs. Rec. Pct. 1. Mike Shanahan 1995-Pres. 8-5 .615 2. Dan Reeves 1981-92 7-6 .538 3. Red Miller 1977-80 2-3 .400

DENVER at detroit — 13 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

SMITH APPROACHES 800 CAREER RECEPTIONS SMITH OWNS EIGHT 1,000-YARD SEASONS Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith enters the 2006 season with Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith increased his franchise-best 797 catches for his career, needing only three grabs to become the total of 1,000-yard seasons to eight in 2005, a total that ties former first undrafted player in NFL history to reach 800. Jaguars wide receiver Jimmy Smith for the most in the NFL since There are only three current players in the NFL with 800 career 1997. receptions. Two of those players—St. Louis' Isaac Bruce and San MOST 1,000-YARD RECEIVING SEASONS, NFL, 1997-PRESENT Diego's Keenan McCardell—went above 800 catches in 2005. Player 1,000-Yard Seasons '05 yds. Jaguars wide receiver Jimmy Smith also eclipsed the 800-career 1. Rod Smith, Den. 8 1,105 catch mark (862) in 2005 but announced his retirement in the off- Jimmy Smith 8 1,023 season. 3. Marvin Harrison, Ind. 7 1,146 Randy Moss, Oak. 7 1,005 ACTIVE PLAYERS WITH THE MOST RECEPTIONS 5. Torry Holt, Stl. 6 1,331 Player Rec. Yds. Avg. TD Terrell Owens, Dal. 6 763 1. Marvin Harrison, Ind. 927 12,331 13.3 110 2. Keenan McCardell, S.D. 825 10,680 12.9 62 SMITH ONE OF BEST UNDRAFTED ‘CATCHES’ 3. Isaac Bruce, Stl. 813 12,278 15.1 77 4. Rod Smith, Den. 797 10,877 13.6 65 During the 1994 NFL Draft, 222 total players and 29 wide 5. Marshall Faulk, Stl.* 767 6,875 9.0 36 receivers were selected by NFL teams before Rod Smith, a receiver In addition, Smith’s 10,877 career receiving yards rank third from Division II Missouri Southern University, signed a rookie free among active NFL players while his 65 career touchdown grabs agent contract with the Broncos. The wideout has more receptions rank fifth. (797), receiving yards (10,877) and receiving (65) than any other undrafted player in NFL history. ACTIVE PLAYERS WITH THE MOST RECEIVING YARDS Smith's 19-yard reception from Jake Plummer in the third quarter Player Rec. Yds. Avg. TD vs. Kansas City on Sept. 26, 2005, made him the first undrafted 1. Marvin Harrison, Ind. 927 12,331 13.3 110 receiver in NFL history to reach 10,000 career receiving yards. 2. Isaac Bruce, Stl. 813 12,278 15.1 77 3. Rod Smith, Den. 797 10,877 13.6 65 CAREER RECEPTIONS AMONG 4. Keenan McCardell, S.D. 825 10,680 12.9 62 UNDRAFTED PLAYERS, ALL-TIME, NFL 5. Terrell Owens, Dal. 716 10,535 14.7 101 Player Receptions 1. Rod Smith (1995-Present) 797 ACTIVE PLAYERS WITH THE MOST TD RECEPTIONS 2. Wayne Chrebet (1995-2005) 580 Player Rec. Yds. Avg. TD 3. J.T. Smith (1978-90) 544 1. Marvin Harrison, Ind. 927 12,331 13.3 110 4. Drew Pearson (1973-83) 489 2. Terrell Owens, Dal. 716 10,535 14.7 101 5. Reggie Rucker (1970-81) 447 3. Randy Moss, Oak. 634 10,147 16 98 CAREER RECEIVING YARDS AMONG 4. Isaac Bruce, Stl. 813 12,278 15.1 77 UNDRAFTED PLAYERS, ALL-TIME, NFL 5. Rod Smith, Den. 797 10,877 13.6 65 Player Rec. Yds. 1. Rod Smith (1995-Present) 10,877 70+CATCHES FOR NINE CONSECUTIVE YEARS 2. Drew Pearson (1973-83) 7,822 Rod Smith has recorded at least 70 receptions in each of the last 3. Wayne Chrebet (1995-2005) 7,365 nine seasons, marking the longest active such streak in the NFL and 4. Reggie Rucker (1970-81) 7,065 5. J.T. Smith (1978-90) 6,974 one that is a year short of tying Tim Brown’s NFL record of 10 con- CAREER RECEIVING TDS AMONG secutive years with 70 or more catches (1993-2002). UNDRAFTED PLAYERS, ALL-TIME, NFL Most Consecutive Seasons with 70 or More Receptions, NFL History Player Rec. TDs Consecutive 1. Rod Smith (1995-Present) 65 Player Team 70-Catch Seasons Years 2. Stephone Paige (1983-91) 49 1. Tim Brown Raiders 10 1993-2002 3. Drew Pearson (1973-83) 48 2. Rod Smith Denver 9 1997-Pres. 4. Reggie Rucker (1970-81) 44 Cris Carter Minnesota 9 1993-2001 5. Paul Coffman (1978-88) 42 Smith is not the only undrafted wide receiver who has found suc- cess with Denver. Steve Watson (1979-87), who has coached Denver's wide receivers since 2003, recorded 6,112 receiving yards, 353 receptions and 36 receiving touchdowns after signing with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent.

DENVER at detroit — 14 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

AMONG THE BEST SINCE 1997 LEADING BY EXAMPLE Rod Smith has been one of the NFL's most productive receivers Wide receiver Rod Smith is widely considered one of the leaders since 1997 and ranks second among pass catchers in receptions in the locker room, but he also is the team's all-time leader in (775), third in receiving yards (10,488) and fourth in receiving receiving yards (10,877), receptions (797) and touchdown catches touchdowns (62) during that period. (65) over his 11-year career. MOST RECEPTIONS IN THE NFL SINCE 1997 MOST RECEIVING YARDS BY A BRONCO, CAREER Player Receptions Player Yards Rec. TDs Years with Den. 1. Marvin Harrison (Colts) 863 1. Rod Smith 10,877 797 65 1995-Present 2. Rod Smith (Broncos) 775 2. Shannon Sharpe 8,439 675 55 1990-99, 02-03 3. Jimmy Smith (Retired) 757 3. Lionel Taylor 6,872 543 44 1960-66 4. (Panthers) 681 Terrell Owens (Cowboys) 681 MOST RECEPTIONS BY A BRONCO, CAREER Player Yards Rec. TDs Years with Den. MOST RECEIVING YARDS IN THE NFL SINCE 1997 1. Rod Smith 10,877 797 65 1995-Present Player Rec. Yds. 2. Shannon Sharpe 8,439 675 55 1990-99, 02-03 1. Marvin Harrison (Colts) 11,495 3. Lionel Taylor 6,872 543 44 1960-66 2. Jimmy Smith (Retired) 10,755 3. Rod Smith (Broncos) 10,488 MOST TD CATCHES BY A BRONCO, CAREER 4. Randy Moss (Raiders) 10,147 Player Yards Rec. TDs Years with Den. 5. Terrell Owens (Cowboys) 10,015 1. Rod Smith 10,877 797 65 1995-Present 2. Shannon Sharpe 8,439 675 55 1990-99, 02-03 MOST RECEIVING TOUCHDOWNS IN THE NFL SINCE 1997 3. Ed McCaffrey 6,200 462 46 1995-2003 Player Rec. Yds. 1. Marvin Harrison (Colts) 102 2. Randy Moss (Raiders) 98 3. Terrell Owens (Cowboys) 97 4. Rod Smith (Broncos) 62 5. Jimmy Smith (Retired) 57

SMITH AMONG NFL’S ALL-TIME RECEIVING LEADERS

MOST RECEPTIONS, NFL HISTORY MOST RECEIVING YARDS, NFL HISTORY Rk. Player (Yrs.) Rec. Rk. Player (Yrs.) Rec. Yds. 1. Jerry Rice, 1985-2004 1,549 1. Jerry Rice, 1985-2004 22,895 2. Cris Carter, 1987-2002 1,101 2. Tim Brown, 1988-2004 14,934 3. Tim Brown, 1988-2004 1,094 3. , 1978-1993 14,004 4. Andre Reed, 1985-2000 951 4. Cris Carter, 1987-2002 13,899 5. , 1980-1995 940 5. Henry Ellard, 1983-1998 13,777 6. Marvin Harrison, 1996-Pres. 927 6. Andre Reed, 1985-2000 13,198 7. Jimmy Smith, 1992-2005 862 7. , 1976-1989 13,089 8. , 1984-2000 851 8. Irving Fryar, 1984-2000 12,785 9. Art Monk, 1980-1995 12,721 9. Larry Centers, 1990-2003 827 10. Marvin Harrison, 1996-Pres. 12,331 10. Keenan McCardell, 1992-Pres. 825 11. Jimmy Smith, 1992-2005 12,287 11. Steve Largent, 1976-1989 819 12. Isaac Bruce, 1994-Pres. 12,278 12. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-2003 815 13. Charlie Joiner, 1969-1986 12,146 13. Henry Ellard, 1983-1998 814 14. Michael Irvin, 1988-1999 11,904 14. Isaac Bruce, 1994-Pres. 813 15. Don Maynard, 1958-1973 11,834 15. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 797 16. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 10,877

DENVER at detroit — 15 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

RECEPTION STREAK OVER 100 WINNING ISN’T EVERYTHING? Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith extended his streak of consec- Since coming to Denver in 2003 and taking over as Denver's start- utive games with at least one reception to 100 after his five-catch, ing quarterback, Jake Plummer has found a way to win. Only the 76-yard performance against Philadelphia on Oct. 30, 2005. Colts' Peyton Manning and the Patriots' have better win- Smith, whose 108-game reception streak is the longest in ning percentages than Plummer's 74.4 figure generated from a 32- Broncos history, is one of five current players with an active recep- 11 record in starts since the 2003 season. tion streak of 100 or more games. He extended his pass-catching BEST REG.-SEASON WINNING PERCENTAGE BY A QB, 2003-05, streak to 108 games with an 11-yard reception at San Diego on Dec. Min. 25 Starts 31. Quarterback Record Pct. CONSECUTIVE GAMES WITH A RECEPTION, ACTIVE NFL STREAKS 1. Tom Brady, N.E. 38-10 79.2% Player Consec. Games Streak Began Peyton Manning, Ind. 38-10 79.2% 1. Marvin Harrison, Ind. 155 9/1/96 vs. Ari. 3. Jake Plummer, Den. 32-11 74.4% 2. Keyshawn Johnson, Car. 151 9/1/96 at Den. 4. Donovan McNabb, Phi. 29-11 72.5% 3. Terrell Owens, Dal. 136 10/20/96 vs. Cin. 5. Michael Vick, Atl. 22-12 64.7% 4. Hines Ward, Pit. 118 11/9/98 vs. G.B. 5. Rod Smith, Den. 108 9/26/99 at T.B. SMITH CRACKS NFL’S TOP 10 FOR PLAYOFF PRODUCTION CONSECUTIVE GAMES WITH A RECEPTION, BRONCOS HISTORY Player Consec. Games Yrs. of Streak Wide receiver Rod Smith, who ranks 16th in NFL history with 1. Rod Smith 108 1999-Present 10,877 career receiving yards in the regular season, moved into the 2. Ed McCaffrey 68 1997-2003 top-10 in that category for postseason play with 157 receiving 3. Lionel Taylor 62 1960-64 yards on 10 catches in two playoff games in 2005. 4. Shannon Sharpe 60 1995-99 5. Steve Watson 49 1983-86 Smith holds Broncos postseason records for receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. DENVER’S ALL-TIME LEADER IN TOUCHDOWNS POSTSEASON RECEIVING YARDS, NFL HISTORY Rod Smith's 27-yard scoring grab on the first play of the second Player Gms. Rec. Yds. Avg. TD 1. Jerry Rice (1985-2004) 29 151 2,245 14.9 22 quarter in Denver's game at Oakland on Nov. 13, 2005, gave him 2. Michael Irvin (1988-99) 16 87 1,315 15.1 8 sole possession of first place atop the Broncos' career touchdowns 3. Cliff Branch (1972-85) 19 73 1,289 17.7 5 list. The score moved the 12th-year receiver ahead of former run- 4. Andre Reed (1985-2000) 21 85 1,229 14.5 9 ning back Terrell Davis, who totaled 65 touchdowns in his Broncos 5. Drew Pearson (1973-83) 22 67 1,105 16.5 8 career. 6. Art Monk (1980-95) 15 69 1,062 15.4 7 Smith increased his career touchdown total to 68 with a 3-yard 7. John Stallworth (1974-87) 17 57 1,054 18.5 12 scoring grab at Buffalo on Dec. 17, 2005. 8. Lynn Swann (1974-82) 16 48 907 18.9 9 9. Cris Carter (1987-2002) 14 63 870 13.8 8 MOST TOUCHDOWNS, BRONCOS HISTORY 10. Rod Smith (1995-Pres.) 13 49 860 17.6 6 Player Yrs. Rush Rec. Ret. Tot. 1. Rod Smith (WR) 1995-Pres. 1 65 2 68 DENVER'S ALL-TIME TOP-RATED PASSER 2. Terrell Davis (RB) 1995-2002 60 5 0 65 3. Shannon Sharpe (TE) 1990-98, ‘02-03 0 55 0 55 Jake Plummer, in three seasons as the Broncos' starting quarter- 4. Floyd Little (RB) 1967-75 43 9 2 54 back, has amassed the best career passer rating in Broncos histo- 5. Sammy Winder (RB) 1982-90 39 9 0 48 ry. Below is a look at the top five: BEST PASSER RATING AMONG BRONCOS, ALL-TIME (min. 500 attempts) Quarterback Years Passer Rating 1. Jake Plummer 2003-05 88.1 2. Brian Griese 1998-02 84.1 3. 1983-98 79.9 4. Craig Morton 1977-82 78.8 5. Charley Johnson 1972-75 73.1

DENVER at detroit — 16 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES Arizona, where he had a -24 ratio (90 TD to 114 INT) during six GETTING BETTER WITH AGE years with the Cardinals. Jake Plummer has improved his career statistics considerably In 2005, Plummer had a streak of 229 consecutive passes without since joining the Broncos before the 2003 season. Below is a side- an interception, a streak that set a franchise record and was the by-side look at Plummer's statistics from 1997-2002 and from fourth longest in the NFL in the last 10 seasons (since 1996). 2003-05: 1997-2002 2003-05 PLUMMER POSTING IMPRESSIVE TD PCT. Statistical Category (Arizona) (Denver) Jake Plummer ranks 10th in the NFL in touchdown percentage Win/Loss Record 30-52 32-11 since the start of the 2003 season. He has thrown 60 touchdown Winning Pct. 36.6% 74.4% passes in 1,279 attempts for a percentage of 4.7. Passer Rating 69.1 88.1 TD/INT Ratio 90-114 (-24) 60-34 (+26) MOST TOUCHDOWNS PER PASS ATTEMPT, NFL, 2003-05 TD% 3.3 4.7 (QBs with 700 or more attempts) INT% 4.2 2.7 Player TD Att. TD Pct. Completion Pct. 56.1% 60.1% 1. Peyton Manning, Ind. 106 1,516 7.0% Passing Yds./Game 208.7 224.1 2. Daunte Culpepper, Mia. 70 1,218 5.7% Passing Yds./Attempt 6.39 7.53 3. Carson Palmer, Cin. 50 941 5.3% 4. , Car. 72 1,417 5.1% THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD 5. Brett Favre, G.B. 82 1,618 5.1% 6. Tom Brady, N.E. 77 1,531 5.0% Durability and longevity are traits every coach looks for in a quar- 7. Matt Hasselbeck, Sea. 72 1,436 5.0% terback, and Jake Plummer ranks among the best in both. Plummer 8. Drew Brees, S.D. 62 1,256 4.9% has started 125 games since entering the NFL in 1997, a total that 9. Donovan McNabb, Phi. 63 1,304 4.8% ties for fourth in the NFL among active quarterbacks. 10. Jake Plummer, Den. 60 1,279 4.7% MOST STARTS BY NFL QUARTERBACKS SINCE 1997 BELL MAKES THE MOST OF HIS CARRIES Quarterback Starts 1. Brett Favre, G.B. 144 Since entering the NFL in 2004, Broncos running back Tatum Bell 2. Drew Bledsoe, N.E./Buf./Dal. 128 has made the most out of his opportunities to run with the football. Peyton Manning, Ind. 128 His 5.3-yard career rushing average is the NFL's top number among 4. Jake Plummer, Ari./Den. 125 running backs since the start of the 2004 season. Steve McNair, Ten. 125 NFL LEADERS IN RUSHING AVERAGE AMONG RUNNING BACKS, THE COMEBACK KID 2004-PRESENT (MIN. 100 ATTEMPTS) Player Att. Yds. Avg. LG TD Jake Plummer has a knack for bringing his team back. In his 1. Tatum Bell, Den. 248 1,317 5.3 68 11 career, Plummer has amassed 28 game-tying drives in the fourth 2. Larry Johnson, K.C. 456 2,331 5.1 46t 29 quarter and 21 game-winning comeback drives in the fourth quar- 3. , NYG 679 3,378 5.0 95t 22 ter or overtime, which ranks as the second-highest total in the NFL 4. Shaun Alexander, Sea. 723 3,576 4.9 88t 43 since 1995. 5. Willie Parker, Pit. 287 1,388 4.8 80t 4 MOST COMEBACKS SINCE 1995 Bell’s 5.3-yard rushing average trails only Clinton Portis (5.5 avg.) Quarterback Comebacks for the highest in club history among players with at least 100 rush- 1. Drew Bledsoe, N.E./Buf./Dal. (1997-2005) 24 ing attempts. 2. Jake Plummer, Ari./Den. (1997-2005) 21 LEADERS IN RUSHING AVERAGE, 3. Peyton Manning, Ind. (1998-2005) 19 BRONCOS HISTORY (MIN. 100 ATTEMPTS) PLUMMER'S TD-TO-INT RATIO Player Att. Yds. Avg. LG TD 1. Clinton Portis, 2002-03 563 3,099 5.5 65t 29 CONTINUES TO IMPROVE 2. Tatum Bell, 2004-05 248 1,317 5.3 68 11 3. Vaughn Hebron, 1996-98 107 515 4.8 47 2 Quarterback Jake Plummer's career touchdown-to-interception 4. Terrell Davis, 1995-02 1,655 7,607 4.6 71t 60 ratio stands at 150-to-148 after throwing no touchdowns or inter- 5. Gerald Willhite, 1982-88 380 1,688 4.4 52 17 ceptions against the Chargers in Denver's 2005 regular-season finale on Dec. 31. Plummer has an even or positive TD-to-INT ratio for the first time in his career since Dec. 6, 1998, in Arizona's game against the N.Y. Giants (31-to-31). Plummer has thrown 26 more touchdowns than interceptions (60 to 34) since joining the Broncos in 2003 from

DENVER at detroit — 17 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

BREAKDOWN OF BELL’S SUCCESS A CHAMP ON OPENING DAY In only two NFL seasons, none of which were spent as the primary Champ Bailey's interception of Dolphins quarterback Gus Frerotte back, Tatum Bell has established himself as a threat every time he in the second quarter of the Broncos' 2005 season opener at Miami takes a handoff. Bell has totaled 32 career rushes of 10 or more marked his fifth interception in the seven opening days that he has yards, 12 rushes of 20 or more yards and three rushes of 50 or played. more yards along with four career 100-yard games. Bailey has now recorded interceptions in his last two season openers and in four of his last five. He will look to improve that total TATUM BELL CAREER RUSHING BREAKDOWN at St. Louis on Sept. 10 during the Broncos’ 2006 season opener. Year 10+ Runs 20+Runs 50+Runs 100-yd. Gms. 2004 11 2 0 1 CHAMP BAILEY'S INTERCEPTIONS DURING SEASON OPENERS 2005 21 10 3 3 Date Opponent INT-Yds. TOTALS 32 12 3 4 Sept. 12, 1999 vs. Dallas 1-4 Sept. 9, 2001 at San Diego 1-5 NALEN RANKS FIRST IN STARTS Sept. 8, 2002 vs. Arizona 1-2 BY DENVER OFFENSIVE LINEMEN Sept. 12, 2004 vs. Kansas City 1-0 Sept. 11, 2005 at Miami 1-11 Center Tom Nalen, in his 13th NFL season, has started more TOTALS 5-22 games (167) than any other offensive lineman in team annals. He moved ahead of center Billy Bryan (1977-88) with a start at Miami BAILEY OWNS BRONCOS INT STREAK RECORD in Denver's 2005 season opener on Sept. 11. Cornerback Champ Bailey led the Broncos with a career-high eight On Oct. 9 against Washington, the day that Steve Atwater was interceptions in 2005, topping his previous best of five with an inducted into the Broncos' Ring of Fame, Nalen moved ahead of the interception that he returned 65 yards for a touchdown against former safety for sole possession of seventh place all-time in starts Dallas on Thanksgiving Day last year. by a Bronco in the regular season. Most recently, Nalen passed for- Bailey totaled an interception in five consecutive games in 2005, mer cornerback Louis Wright (163) for sole possession of sixth setting a franchise record and personal best. place on Denver's all-time starts list with a start against Baltimore Below is a look at Bailey's interception streaks for his career. on Dec. 11, 2005. CHAMP BAILEY INTERCEPTION STREAKS, CAREER Most Games Started, Broncos History GAMES INT Yds. Player Pos. Starts Years 1. 11/20/00 at Stl. 1 4 1. John Elway QB 231 1983-98 11/26/00 vs. Phi. 1 0 2. Billy Thompson DB 178 1969-81 2. 12/24/00 vs. Ari.* 1 0 3. Tom Jackson LB 177 1973-86 9/9/01 at S.D. 1 5 Barney Chavous DE 177 1973-85 3. 9/22/02 at S.F. 1 0 5. Dennis Smith S 170 1981-94 10/6/02 at Ten. 1 0 6. Tom Nalen C 167 1994-2005 4. 9/11/05 at Mia. 1 11 9/18/05 vs. S.D. 1 25t IT STARTS WITH BAILEY 5. 11/13/05 at Oak. 1 18 Cornerback Champ Bailey, who earned the sixth Pro Bowl nomi- 11/20/05 vs. NYJ 1 0 nation of his career in 2005, made the 100th start of his career in 11/24/05 at Dal. 1 65t 12/4/05 at K.C. 1 10 Denver's win against New England on Oct. 16, 2005. Bailey's 110 12/11/05 vs. Bal. 1 10 starts trail only Buccaneers cornerback (111) for most starts in the NFL since 1999. He started 99 consecutive games to begin his career before a hamstring injury forced him inactive for Denver's games at Jacksonville (10/2) and vs. Washington (10/9) in 2005. MOST STARTS BY A CORNERBACK, NFL, 1999-Present Cornerback Starts 1. Ronde Barber, T.B. 111 2. Champ Bailey, Den. 110 3. Sam Madison, Mia. 108 4. Chris McAlister, Bal. 98

DENVER at detroit — 18 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

ELAM JOINS ELITE COMPANY ELAM REACHES ANOTHER CAREER MILESTONE With 10 points in Denver's win against Oakland on Dec. 24, 2005, Kicker Jason Elam joined a very elite group in NFL history in 2004 Broncos kicker Jason Elam became only the fourth player in NFL by becoming just the 16th player ever to hit 300 career field goals. history to register 200 or more career points against multiple Elam now has 341 career field goals and ranks third among active teams. Elam has 203 career points against the Raiders and 202 kickers. against the Chargers. ACTIVE KICKERS WITH THE MOST FIELD GOALS , George Blanda and Lou Groza join Elam as the Player FGs only players in NFL history to have scored at least 200 career points 1. John Carney, N.O. 390 against more than one team. 2. Matt Stover, Bal. 380 Elam also owns 190 career points against the Chiefs in the regu- 3. Jason Elam, Den. 341 lar season and this season can become the first player in NFL his- 4. Jason Hanson, Det. 327 tory with 200 or more career points against three teams. 5. John Kasay, Car. 310 PLAYERS WITH MORE THAN 200 POINTS VS. MULTIPLE TEAMS, Of the kickers in league history who have reached this number, NFL HISTORY, REGULAR SEASON Elam did it faster than any other, taking just 177 games to accom- Player Years Opponents plish the feat (11 faster than John Carney). Jason Elam (K) 1993-Pres. Oak. (203), S.D. (202) Morten Andersen (K) 1982-2004 Stl. (253), S.F. (246) GAMES NEEDED TO REACH 300 CAREER FIELD GOALS George Blanda (K/QB) 1949-75 Den. (245), S.D. (203) Player Games Lou Groza (K) 1946-67 Ari. (216), Was. (242) 1. Jason Elam, Den. 177 2. John Carney, N.O. 188 13 CONSECUTIVE 100-POINT SEASONS 3. Gary Anderson 191 Nick Lowery 191 Broncos kicker Jason Elam became the first player in NFL history 5. John Kasay, Car. 200 to record at least 100 points in each of his first 13 seasons during Denver's 28-17 win at Buffalo on Dec. 17, 2005. ELAM HAS NFL'S SECOND-LONGEST SCORING STREAK Elam's 13 career 100-point seasons rank as the third-highest total Jason Elam is on quite a tear. He has scored at least one point in in NFL history behind the 14 such seasons posted by Morten every game of his career (204), which is the longest active scoring Andersen and Gary Anderson. streak and the second longest one in NFL history. NFL'S CAREER LEADERS IN 100-POINT SEASONS On Dec. 4, 2005, against the Chiefs, Elam became only the second Name 100-pt. Seasons Years Played player in NFL history to have scored in at least 200 consecutive 1. Morten Andersen 14 1982-2004 games. Gary Anderson 14 1982-2004 3. Jason Elam 13 1993-Present LONGEST SCORING STREAKS, NFL HISTORY 4. Nick Lowery 11 1980-1996 Player Games Years 1. Morten Andersen 327 1983-2004 In addition, Elam's 13 consecutive 100-point seasons mark the 2. Jason Elam 204 1993-Present longest streak in NFL history. 3. Jim Breach 186 1979-92 4. Ray Wersching 155 1977-87 MOST CONSECUTIVE 100-POINT SEASONS, NFL HISTORY Name 100-pt Seasons Years ELAM RANKS SECOND ALL-TIME IN 50+YARD FGS 1. Jason Elam 13 1993-Present 2. 10 1996-Present The 51-yard field goal by Jason Elam in Denver's 30-10 win vs. 3. Ryan Longwell 8 1997-Present Kansas City on Sept. 26, 2005, in a game Mike Vanderjagt 8 1998-Present was the 35th 50+yard field goal of his career during the regular sea- son. He currently ranks second all-time in field goals of 50+ yards. CAREER FIELD GOALS OF 50+-YARDS, ALL-TIME Name Field Goals 1. Morten Andersen 40 2. Jason Elam, Den. 35 3. John Kasay, Car. 29 4. Jason Hanson, Det. 27 5. Nick Lowery 22

DENVER at detroit — 19 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES FASTEST TO 1,300 CAREER POINTS, NFL HISTORY ELAM IS 1ST IN CAREER PAT PCT. Player Games Needed 1. Jason Elam 170 games Despite missing an extra-point attempt in Denver's win against 2. Nick Lowery 188 games Baltimore on Dec. 11, 2005, Jason Elam is the NFL's leader in 3. Gary Anderson 191 games career PAT percentage at 99.4 percent (534 of 537). During Denver's game vs. Washington on Oct. 9, 2005, Elam became the ELAM AMONG THE LEADERS (PART 1) 16th player in NFL history to total 500 extra-point conversions. Jason Elam ranks among the league leaders in field-goal percent- NFL'S CAREER LEADERS IN PAT PERCENTAGE age on attempts inside 40 yards since he entered the league in Player Made Att. Pct. 1993: 1. Jason Elam (Den.) 534 537 99.4 NFL'S MOST ACCURATE KICKERS INSIDE 40 YDS. SINCE 1993 2. Tommy Davis 348 350 99.4 Player Team(s) FG/FGA Pct. 3. Mike Vanderjagt (Dal.) 344 346 99.4 1. Jason Hanson Detroit 200/209 .957 4. Matt Stover (Bal.) 454 457 99.3 2. Matt Stover Baltimore/Cleveland 231/243 .951 5. Jeff Wilkins (Stl.) 435 438 99.3 3. John Kasay Carolina/Seattle 177/187 .947 4. Jason Elam Denver 223/239 .933 ELAM FASTEST TO 1,500 CAREER POINTS 5. Morten Andersen MIN/K.C./N.O./ATL/N.Y.G. 182/196 .929 In 204 career games, Jason Elam has scored 1,557 career ELAM AMONG THE LEADERS (PART 2) points—and with his 11 points at Oakland on Nov. 13—eclipsed the 1,500-point plateau faster than any player in NFL history, doing so Jason Elam ranks first in the NFL in points scored (1,557) and in just his 197th career game. Nick Lowery previously held the NFL second in field goals made (341) since entering the league in 1993. record, reaching the mark in 220 career games. Here is a look at the tops in each category: Below is a look at where Elam stood among his other players MOST POINTS SCORED, 1993-2005 while becoming the fastest NFL player to 1,300, 1,400 and 1,500 Player Current Team Points career points. 1. Jason Elam Denver 1,557 2. Matt Stover Baltimore 1,421 FASTEST TO 1,500 CAREER POINTS, NFL HISTORY 3. John Carney New Orleans 1,337 Player Games Needed 4. Jason Hanson Detroit 1,327 1. Jason Elam 197 games 5. Gary Anderson Out of NFL 1,311 2. Nick Lowery 220 games 3. Gary Anderson 222 games MOST FIELD GOALS MADE, 1993-2005 Morten Andersen 222 games Player Current Team FGs 5. John Carney 223 games 1. Matt Stover Baltimore 343 2. Jason Elam Denver 341 FASTEST TO 1,400 CAREER POINTS, NFL HISTORY 3. John Carney New Orleans 324 Player Games Needed 4. Jason Hanson Detroit 306 1. Jason Elam 184 games 5. Gary Anderson Out of NFL 281 2. Nick Lowery 203 games 3. Gary Anderson 205 games 4. Morten Andersen 207 games

ELAM AMONG NFL’S ALL-TIME LEADERS IN FIELD GOALS, POINTS SCORED

MOST FIELD GOALS MADE, NFL HISTORY MOST POINTS SCORED, NFL HISTORY Rk. Player (Yrs.) FGs Rk. Player (Yrs.) Pts. 1. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 538 1. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 2,434 2. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 520 2. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 2,358 3. John Carney, 1988-Pres. 390 3. George Blanda, 1949-1975 2,002 4. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 383 4. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 1,736 5. Matt Stover, 1991-Pres. 380 5. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 1,711 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 373 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 1,699 7. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 366 7. John Carney, 1988-Pres. 1,634 8. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 352 8t. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 1,594 8t. Matt Stover, 1991-Pres. 1,594 9. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 347 10. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 1,584 10. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 341 11. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 1,557

DENVER at detroit — 20 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release PLAYER NOTES

A SCORE TO SETTLE CONSISTENCY AT A KEY POSITION In only 13 years, Jason Elam has scored 1,557 career points, Three-time Pro Bowl Todd Sauerbrun has posted the best which rank third among the league's active leaders. In addition, net punting average (37.3) and the second-best gross average Elam ranks 11th all-time in league history in scoring. (45.1) in the NFL over the last six seasons among punters with a Below is a list of the NFL's top-5 active scorers: minimum of 200 punts during that period. TOP-5 ACTIVE SCORERS, NFL NET PUNTING AVERAGE, NFL, 2000-PRESENT (min. 200 punts) Player Yrs TDs PATs FGs Total Pts Player Current Team Punts Net Avg. 1. John Carney, N.O. 18 0 464 390 1,634 1. Todd Sauerbrun Denver 504 37.3 2. Matt Stover, Bal. 15 0 454 380 1,594 2. Craig Hentrich Tennessee 448 36.8 3. Jason Elam, Den. 13 0 534 341 1,557 3. Oakland 442 36.6 4. Jason Hanson, Det. 14 0 439 327 1,420 4. Mitch Berger New Orleans 408 36.6 5. John Kasay, Car. 14 0 375 310 1,305 5. Brian Moorman Buffalo 379 36.5 ELAM SECOND IN GAMES PLAYED BY A BRONCO GROSS PUNTING AVERAGE, NFL, 2000-PRESENT (min. 200 punts) Player Current Team Punts Gross Avg. Jason Elam moved into sole possession of second place in games 1. Shane Lechler Oakland 442 45.9 played by a Bronco after participating in Denver's win at 2. Todd Sauerbrun Denver 504 45.1 Jacksonville on Oct. 2, 2005. He has played in 204 games. 3. Mitch Berger New Orleans 408 43.5 4. Hunter Smith Indianapolis 367 43.5 MOST GAMES PLAYED BRONCOS HISTORY (REGULAR SEASON) 5. Brian Moorman Buffalo 379 43.4 Name Games Years Played 1. John Elway 234 1983-98 ONE POWERFUL PUNTER 2. Jason Elam 204 1993-Pres. 3. Tom Jackson 191 1973-86 Todd Sauerbrun's consistency throughout his 11 NFL seasons 4. Paul Howard 187 1973-86 has placed the punter among the best in NFL history. His 44.0-yard 5. Dennis Smith 184 1981-94 career gross punting average ranks fifth all-time in league history among punters with a minimum of 250 punts. SAUERBRUN AMONG TOP ACTIVE PUNTERS GROSS PUNTING AVERAGE, NFL HISTORY (min. 250 punts) Broncos punter Todd Sauerbrun's 44.0 career gross punting aver- Player Punts Yards Gross Avg. age on 832 punts ranks second among active punters with a mini- 1. Shane Lechler, Oak. 442 20,266 45.9 mum of 250 punts. 2. 338 15,245 45.1 3. Tommy Davis 511 22,833 44.7 GROSS PUNTING AVERAGE, ACTIVE LEADERS (MIN. 250 PUNTS) 4. Yale Lary 503 22,279 44.3 Player Team Punts Gross Avg. 5. Todd Sauerbrun, Den. 832 36,660 44.0 1. Shane Lechler Oakland 442 45.9 2. Todd Sauerbrun Denver 832 44.0 Additionally, Sauerbrun has posted the highest gross punting 3. Out of NFL 810 43.4 average in the league among punters with a minimum of 500 4. Darren Bennett Out of NFL 836 43.4 5. Brian Moorman Buffalo 379 43.4 attempts since beginning his NFL career in 1995. GROSS PUNTING AVERAGE, NFL, 1995-PRESENT (min. 500 punts) Player Punts Yards Gross Avg. 1. Todd Sauerbrun (Den.) 832 36,660 44.0 2. (Pit.) 877 38,305 43.7 3. 787 34,371 43.7 4. Darren Bennett, Min. 836 36,316 43.4 5. Mitch Berger, N.O. 685 29,729 43.4

DENVER at detroit — 21 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES 16. Terrell Davis 109 yards Seattle (12/9/01) W 20-7 MOST 1,000-YARD RUSHERS SINCE 1995 17. Clinton Portis 103 yards Buffalo (9/22/02) W 28-23 18. Clinton Portis 102 yards San Diego (10/6/02) W 26-9 The Broncos' rushing attack has enjoyed unmatched success 19. Clinton Portis 111 yards at New England (10/27/02) W 24-16 since 1995. With Mike Anderson going above 1,000 yards (1,014) 20. Clinton Portis 136 yards at Seattle (11/17/02) W 31-9 in 2005, Denver recorded its 10th individual 1,000-yard rushing Clinton Portis 159 yards at San Diego (12/1/02) L 37-30 OT season in the last 11 years. Clinton Portis 103 yards at New York (12/8/02) L 13-19 The Broncos' 10 1,000-yard seasons since 1995 mark the highest 21. Clinton Portis 130 yards Kansas City (12/15/02) W 31-24 total of any NFL team during that period. 22. Clinton Portis 228 yards Arizona (12/29/02) W 37-7 23. Clinton Portis 120 yards at Cincinnati (9/7/03) W 30-10 MOST 1,000-YARD RUSHING SEASONS, NFL, 1995-PRESENT 24. Clinton Portis 129 yards at San Diego (9/14/03) W 37-13 Team 1,000-Yard Seasons '05 leader Clinton Portis 141 yards at Kansas City (10/5/03) L 23-24 1. Denver 10 Anderson - 1,014 yds. Clinton Portis 117 yards at Minnesota (10/19/03) L 20-28 2. Indianapolis 9 James - 1,506 yds. Clinton Portis 111 yards vs. New England (11/3/03) L 26-30 N.Y. Jets 9 Martin - 735 yds. 25. Clinton Portis 106 yards vs. San Diego (11/16/03) W 37-8 Seattle 9 Alexander - 1,880 yds. Clinton Portis 165 yards vs. Chicago (11/23/03) L 10-19 Below is a look at the Broncos’ 16 individual 1,000-yard rushing 26. Clinton Portis 170 yards at Oakland (11/30/03) W 22-8 27. Clinton Portis 218 yards vs. Kansas City (12/7/03) W 45-27 seasons in club history. 28. Clinton Portis 139 yards vs. Cleveland (12/14/03 W 23-20 OT BRONCOS ALL-TIME 1,000-YARD RUSHING SEASONS 29. Quentin Griffin 136 yards at Indianapolis (12/21/03) W 31-17 Player Year Yards 30. Quentin Griffin 156 yards vs. Kansas City (9/12/04) W 34-24 1. Floyd Little 1971 1,133 31. R. Droughns 193 yards vs. Carolina (10/10/04) W 20-17 2. Otis Armstrong 1974 1,407 32. R. Droughns 176 yards at Oakland (10/17/04) W 31-3 3. Otis Armstrong 1976 1,008 R. Droughns 110 yards at Cincinnati (10/25/04 L 10-23 4. Sammy Winder 1984 1,153 33. R. Droughns 120 yards vs. Houston (11/7/04) W 31-13 5. Bobby Humphrey 1989 1,151 34. R. Droughns 166 yards at New Orleans (11/21/04) W 34-13 6. Bobby Humphrey 1990 1,202 R. Droughns 102 yards vs. Oakland (11/28/04) L 24-25 7. Terrell Davis 1995 1,117 35. Tatum Bell 123 yards vs. Miami (12/12/04) W 20-17 8. Terrell Davis 1996 1,538 36. Mike Anderson 115 yards at Jacksonville (10/2/05) W 20-7 9. Terrell Davis 1997 1,750 37. Tatum Bell 127 yards vs. Washington (10/9/05) W 21-19 10. Terrell Davis 1998 2,008 38. Tatum Bell 114 yards vs. New England (10/16/05) W 28-20 11. Olandis Gary 1999 1,159 Mike Anderson 120 yards at N.Y. Giants (10/23/05) L 23-24 12. Mike Anderson 2000 1,487 39. Mike Anderson 126 yards vs. Philadelphia (10/30/05) W 49-21 13. Clinton Portis 2002 1,508 Tatum Bell 107 yards vs. Philadelphia (10/30/05) W 49-21 14. Clinton Portis 2003 1,591 40. Mike Anderson 113 yards vs. N.Y. Jets (11/20/05) W 27-0 15. Reuben Droughns 2004 1,240 16. Mike Anderson 2005 1,014 CENTURY MARK AND BEYOND 100 YARDS AND RUSHING The Denver Broncos have had one of the most potent rushing attacks in the NFL since Head Coach Mike Shanahan took over in The Broncos have won 15 of their last 18 games and 40 of their 1995. In addition to having five different players rush for more than last 49 when a player rushes for 100 yards or more. 1,000 yards in a season (Terrell Davis, Olandis Gary, Mike BRONCOS' WINS WHEN A RUNNING BACK TOPS 100-YARDS Anderson, Clinton Portis and Reuben Droughns), the Broncos are Player Yards Opponent Result tops in the NFL with most individual 100-yard games with 82. 1. Terrell Davis 178 yards Seattle (12/27/98) W 28-21 Below is a list of the NFL's top teams in 100-yard performers since 2. Olandis Gary 124 yards Green Bay (10/17/99) W 31-10 1995. 3. Olandis Gary 108 yards at San Diego (11/7/99) W 33-17 MOST INDIVIDUAL 100-YARD GAMES SINCE 1995, NFL 4. Olandis Gary 183 yards Seattle (12/19/99) W 36-30 100-yd. 5. Olandis Gary 185 yards at Detroit (12/25/99) W 17-7 Team Games 6. Mike Anderson 131 yards Atlanta (9/10/00) W 42-14 1. Denver 82 7. Mike Anderson 187 yards at Oakland (9/17/00) W 33-24 2. Pittsburgh 71 8. Mike Anderson 103 yards Cleveland (10/15/00) W 44-10 3. Indianapolis 65 9. Terrell Davis 115 yards at N.Y. Jets (11/5/00) W 30-23 4. Seattle 59 10. Mike Anderson 195 yards at Seattle (11/26/00) W 38-31 5. Dallas 56 11. Mike Anderson 251 yards at New Orleans (12/3/00) W 38-23 12. Mike Anderson 131 yards Seattle (12/10/00) W 31-24 13. Terrell Davis 101 yards N.Y. Giants (9/10/01) W 31-20 14. Mike Anderson 155 yards Kansas City (10/7/01) W 20-6 15. Mike Anderson 118 yards at Dallas (11/22/01) W 26-24

DENVER at detroit — 22 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES MOST CONSECUTIVE GAMES WITHOUT O-LINE PROVIDING PASS PROTECTION BEING SHUT OUT, NFL HISTORY Team Games Years The Broncos' offensive line, renowned for its ability to clear the 1. San Francisco 420 1977-2004 way for a dominant rushing attack, also has proven to be equally 2. Cleveland 274 1950-71 adept in pass protection during the last three seasons. Denver, 3. Minnesota 237 1991-Present which set a franchise record in 2004 by allowing only 15 sacks, has 4. Green Bay 235 1991-Present given up the third-fewest sacks (63 for 393 yds.) in the NFL since 5. Dallas 218 1970-85 2003. 6. Oakland 217 1966-81 FEWEST SACKS ALLOWED, NFL, SINCE 2003 7. New Orleans 216 1983-97 Team Sacks Yards 8. Denver 213 1992-Present 1. Indianapolis 53 314 9. Washington 201 1980-93 2. Green Bay 60 436 3. Denver 63 393 HOLDING THE OPPONENTS AT BAY 4. Detroit 79 445 The Broncos held 11 (San Diego, Oakland, Buffalo, Baltimore, N.Y. 5. San Diego 81 597 Jets, Oakland, New England, Washington, Jacksonville, Kansas City HOLD IT RIGHT THERE and San Diego) of their 16 opponents to 10 points or less in 2005. Under Head Coach Shanahan, the Broncos are 81-16 (.835) when When John Elway was ruling the roost in Denver, comebacks were they hold their opponents to 20 points or less. In addition, the club often times the only thing people talked about. But since Head is 51-3 (.944) when holding the opponent to 15 points or less, Coach Mike Shanahan took over the reigns in 1995, the Broncos including six times in 2005 (6-0). Also, in that time the Broncos have learned to not allow the opponents to come back on them. In have only lost once when holding the opponent to 10 points or less. Shanahan's tenure, the Broncos are 97-13 (.882) in games in which Below is a list of the 37 games in which Denver's defense has held they led after three quarters, including 12-1 in 2005. the opponent to 10 points or less since 1995 (24-0 home and 12-1 BRONCOS RECORD WHEN LEADING AFTER THREE QUARTERS on the road). Year Record Pct. GAMES IN WHICH THE BRONCOS HAVE HELD 1995 6-1 .857 THEIR OPPONENTS TO 10 POINTS OR LESS 1996 10-1 .909 Date Res. Team 1997 12-0 1.000 Sept. 3, 1995 W 22-7 vs. Buffalo 1998 13-0 1.000 Oct. 8, 1995 W 37-3 at New England 1999 5-2 .714 Oct. 16, 1995 W 27-0 vs. Oakland 2000 9-1 .900 Nov. 5, 1995 W 38-6 vs. Arizona 2001 7-2 .778 Sept. 1, 1996 W 31-6 vs. New York Jets 2002 8-2 .800 Sept. 29, 1996 W 14-10 at Cincinnati 2003 9-3 .750 Oct. 27, 1996 W 34-7 vs. Kansas City 2004 6-0 1.000 Nov. 17, 1996 W 34-8 at New England 2005 12-1 .923 Dec. 1, 1996 W 34-7 vs. Seattle Total 97-13 .882 Aug. 31, 1997 W 19-3 vs. Kansas City BRONCOS EXTEND SCORING STREAK TO 200 GAMES Nov. 9, 1997 W 34-0 vs. Carolina Nov. 24, 1997 W 31-3 vs. Oakland During its 30-10 home victory on Monday Night Football against Dec. 21, 1997 W 38-3 vs. San Diego the Chiefs on Sept. 26, 2005, Denver extended its scoring streak to Nov. 8, 1998 W 27-10 vs. San Diego 200 consecutive games. Nov. 16, 1998 W 30-7 at Kansas City Denver's scoring streak, which began on Monday Night Football Oct. 17, 1999 W 31-10 vs. Green Bay Dec. 25, 1999 W 17-7 at Detroit with a 16-13 overtime loss at Seattle on Nov. 30, 1992, currently Oct. 8, 2000 W 21-7 at San Diego stands at 213 games and is the third-longest active streak in the Oct. 15, 2000 W 44-10 vs. Cleveland NFL as well as the eighth-longest in NFL history. Dec. 23, 2000 W 38-9 vs. San Francisco With its win against Washington on Oct. 9, 2005, Denver sur- Oct. 7, 2001 W 20-6 vs. Kansas City passed the 201-game scoring streak set by the Redskins from Dec. 9, 2001 W 20-7 vs. Seattle 1980-93 to move into sole possession of the eighth-longest scor- Oct. 6, 2002 W 26-9 vs. San Diego ing streak. Nov. 17, 2002 W 31-9 at Seattle Dec. 29, 2002 W 37-7 vs. Arizona Sept. 7, 2003 W 30-10 at Cincinnati Sept. 22, 2003 W 31-10 vs. Oakland Nov. 16, 2003 W 37-8 vs. San Diego Nov. 30, 2003 W 22-8 at Oakland

DENVER at detroit — 23 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES Below is a game-by-game look at Denver’s play in the game HOLDING THE OPPONENTS AT BAY, cont. immediately following its bye week since 1990. Sept. 19, 2004 L 6-7 at Jacksonville BRONCOS RECORD IN GAME AFTER THE BYE WEEK, SINCE 1990 Oct. 17, 2004 W 31-3 at Oakland Year Date Opponent Result Sept.26, 2005 W 30-10 vs. Kansas City 1990 Nov. 4 at Minnesota L, 27-22 Oct. 2, 2005 W 20-7 at Jacksonville 1991 Oct. 20 vs. Kansas City W, 19-16 Nov. 20, 2005 W 27-0 vs. New York Jets 1992 Nov. 8 vs. New York Jets W, 27-16 Dec. 11, 2005 W 12-10 vs. Baltimore 1993 Oct. 3 vs. Indianapolis W, 35-13 Dec. 24, 2005 W 22-3 vs. Oakland 1993 Oct. 31 vs. Seattle W, 28-17 Dec. 31, 2005 W 23-7 at San Diego 1994 Oct. 9 at Seattle W, 16-9 1995 Nov. 5 vs. Arizona W, 38-6 BRONCOS ADEPT AT RUNNING 1996 Oct. 20 vs. Baltimore W, 45-34 AND STOPPING THE RUN 1997 Oct. 19 at Oakland L, 38-25 1998 Oct. 25 vs. Jacksonville W, 37-24 The combination of Denver's running game and its run defense 1999 Dec. 5 vs. Kansas City L, 16-10 have yielded the best rushing differential in the NFL since 1995. 2000 Nov. 5 at New York Jets W, 30-23 Denver owns a 45.0-yard run differential since 1995, tops in the 2001 Dec. 30 vs. Oakland W, 23-17 league during that period. That number takes Denver's rushing 2002 Nov. 11 vs. Oakland L, 34-10 offense (142.2 ypg.) since 1995 and subtracts its rushing defense 2003 Nov. 16 vs. San Diego W, 37-8 (97.2 ypg.) from that total. 2004 Nov. 21 at New Orleans W, 34-13 2005 Nov. 13 at Oakland W, 31-17 TOP RUN DIFFERENTIALS, NFL SINCE 1995 TOTALS 13-4 (.765) (MEASURED IN YARDS PER GAME) Home: 9-2 (.818) / Away: 4-2 (.667) Team Rush Off. Rush Def. Tot. Diff. 1. Denver 142.2 97.2 45.0 100 GAMES OVER .500 2. Pittsburgh 136.2 92.8 43.4 3. San Francisco 123.0 100.5 22.5 The Broncos' 23-7 win at San Diego in their 2005 regular-season 4. Baltimore 117.9 96.9 21.0 finale put the team exactly 100 games over .500 (323-223) since 5. Tennessee 117.4 96.6 20.8 the 1970 AFL-NFL merger. It is the first time in franchise history that Denver has achieved that elite status, and the club is one of ONE OF THE BEST AFTER THE BYE three teams that can currently make that claim. The Broncos are one of the strongest teams in the NFL after their TEAMS 100 OR MORE GAMES OVER .500, SINCE 1970 MERGER bye week, tying for the best winning percentage in those games Team W L T Pct. since the bye was introduced in 1990. Denver is 13-4 (.765) after 1. Miami 347 203 2 .630 the bye week and is 8-3 (.727) in those contests under Head Coach 2. Pittsburgh 333 217 2 .605 Mike Shanahan (1995-Present). 3. Denver 323 223 6 .591 The Broncos’ 13-4 record in these games ties the club with the TOPS IN THE AFC IN FREE AGENCY (SINCE 1993) Vikings and Eagles for the best records in the NFL after the bye week. Denver will look to improve its post-bye week success when Since the league's current free-agent system began in 1993, the it hosts Baltimore on Monday Night Football on Oct. 9. Broncos have been extremely successful. In fact, the team has the Denver’s bye week date of Oct. 1 this season is the second-earli- AFC's best record, 130-78 (.625), and ranks second overall. Below est in franchise history, trailing only its 1993 bye week date of Sept. are the NFL's top teams since free agency began: 26. NFL'S WINNINGEST TEAMS SINCE FREE AGENCY BEGAN (1993) BEST RECORDS AFTER THE BYE WEEK, 1990-PRESENT Playoff Super Bowl Team Record Pct. Team Record Appearances Wins 1. Denver 13-4 .765 1. Green Bay 131-77 (.630) 10 1 Minnesota 13-4 .765 2. Denver 130-78 (.625) 8 2 Philadelphia 13-4 .765 3. Kansas City 122-86 (.586) 5 0 4. Dallas 12-5 .706 4. Miami 117-91 (.563) 7 0 5. Buffalo 11-6 .647 5. San Francisco 116-92 (.558) 8 1 Kansas City 11-6 .647

DENVER at detroit — 24 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES

INTERCONFERENCE WARRIORS HOME WINNING STREAK AMONG The Broncos' .578 winning percentage on a 77-56-2 record in BEST IN CLUB HISTORY interconference play since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger ranks as the The Broncos’ 10-game home winning streak in the regular season fourth-best total in the NFL. marks the third-longest such streak in franchise history. It is the INTERCONFERENCE RECORDS SINCE 1970 MERGER longest at INVESCO Field at Mile High (2001-Pres., 31-9 record), Team Record Pct. where the team’s previous longest home winning streak had been 1. Miami 87-42-0 .674 five games. 2. Oakland 85-48-1 .638 Denver's home winning streak also is its longest since the team 3. Pittsburgh 76-51-1 .598 won a franchise-record 24 consecutive home games from Sept. 1, 4. Denver 77-56-2 .578 1996, through Dec. 27, 1998. 5. Dallas 72-56-0 .563 San Francisco 76-59-0 .563 LONGEST HOME WINNING STREAKS, BRONCOS HISTORY (REGULAR SEASON) TOUGH AGAINST NFC TEAMS Games Dates 1. 24 Sept. 1, 1996, through Dec. 27, 1998 Under Head Coach Mike Shanahan (1995-Present), the Broncos 2. 12 Oct. 16, 1983, through Nov. 18, 1984 have compiled a 30-14 record (.682) in their 44 games played 3. 10 Dec. 12, 2004, through Present against NFC teams. In 2006, Denver will play four games against 4. 9 Oct. 16, 1988, through Oct. 15, 1989 the NFC West (at St. Louis, vs. Seattle, at Arizona and vs. San 5. 8 Dec. 1, 1991, through Nov. 15, 1992 Francisco). 8 Sept. 6, 1981, through Dec. 13, 1981 The Broncos' win percentage jumps to .818 against NFC clubs in LONGEST HOME WINNING STREAKS, INVESCO FIELD AT MILE HIGH games played at home since 1995 as the team owns an 18-4 record (REGULAR SEASON) in those contests. On the road, Denver is 12-10 (.545) against NFC Games Dates teams since 1995. 1. 10 Dec. 12, 2004, through Present Denver has had only one losing record since 1995 in its four-game 2. 5 Dec. 7, 2003, through Oct. 31, 2004 annual schedule against NFC teams with the club going 1-3 against 5 Dec. 15, 2002, through Nov. 3, 2003 the NFC North in 2003. 5 Dec. 9, 2001, through Oct. 13, 2002 DENVER'S RECORD IN NFC PLAY, SINCE 1995 FIVE UNDEFEATED HOME SCHEDULES Year Division Overall Home Away Win Pct. 1995 NFC East 2-2 2-0 0-2 .500 The Broncos recorded the franchise's fifth perfect home record in 1996 NFC Central 3-1 2-0 1-1 .750 2005. It marked the team's first unbeaten home record at INVESCO 1997 NFC West 3-1 2-0 1-1 .750 Field at Mile High, which opened before the start of the 2001 sea- 1998 NFC East 3-1 2-0 1-1 .750 son. 1999 NFC Central 2-2 1-1 1-1 .500 Four of Denver's five unbeaten home records have come under 2000 NFC West 3-1 2-0 1-1 .750 Head Coach Mike Shanahan (1995-Present). Denver went undefeat- 2001 NFC East 3-1 1-1 2-0 .750 ed at home in three consecutive seasons under Shanahan from 2002 NFC West 4-0 2-0 2-0 1.000 2003 NFC North 1-3 1-1 0-2 .250 1996-98 and was 8-0 at home in 1981. 2004 NFC South 3-1 1-1 2-0 .750 UNDEFEATED HOME SCHEDULES, BRONCOS HISTORY 2005 NFC East 3-1 2-0 1-1 .500 Year Home Record Overall Record TOTALS 30-14 18-4 12-10 .682 2005 8-0 13-3 1998 8-0 14-2 BRONCOS ENTER 2006 ON NFL-BEST 10-GAME 1997 8-0 12-4 HOME REGULAR-SEASON WIN STREAK 1996 8-0 13-3 1981 8-0 10-6 Along with the , the Broncos begin the 2006 campaign having won their last 10 home regular-season contests to share the longest home winning streak in the NFL. Below is a look at the longest active home winning streaks in regular-season play. LONGEST CURRENT HOME WINNING STREAKS, NFL Team Streak Last Loss 1. Denver 10 11/28/04 vs. Oak. Seattle 10 12/6/04 vs. Dal. 3. Kansas City 6 10/2/05 vs. Phi. 4. Baltimore 4 11/6/05 vs. Cin. DENVER at detroit — 25 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES BRONCOS AT HOME IN SEPTEMBER, 2002-Present FIVE UNDEFEATED HOME SCHEDULES, cont. Date Opponent Result Sept. 8, 2002 St. Louis W, 23-16 In addition, Denver's five unbeaten home records are the most in Sept. 22, 2002 Buffalo W, 28-23 the NFL since the league adopted a 16-game schedule in 1978. Sept. 22, 2003 Oakland W, 31-10 There have been 36 undefeated home records during that time, Sept. 28, 2003 Detroit W, 20-16 including Denver (8-0) and Seattle (8-0) in 2005. Sept. 12, 2004 Kansas City W, 34-24 Sept. 26, 2004 San Diego W, 23-13 MOST UNDEFEATED HOME RECORDS, NFL, SINCE 1978 Sept. 18, 2005 San Diego W, 20-17 (16-GAME SCHEDULE) Sept. 26, 2005 Kansas City W, 30-10 Team Undefeated Home Records 1. Denver 5 DECEMBER IN DENVER TOUGH ON OPPONENTS 2. Green Bay 3 Kansas City 3 After defeating Oakland 22-3 on Dec. 24, 2005, the Broncos extended their home winning streak in December to 12 games. HOME, SWEET HOME Denver has not lost a home contest during the month of December The Broncos have amassed the NFL's best home record since in the last five seasons with its last home December loss a 16-10 1974 in the regular season and postseason. Denver also has the defeat at the hands of Kansas City on Dec. 5, 1999. most regular-season home victories in the league since 1974, and The Broncos' 12-game home winning streak in December is the the most victories, regular and postseason, since 1974: second-longest active streak in the NFL and the best such streak in franchise history. Additionally, the team has not lost at INVESCO TOP HOME RECORDS, NFL, 1974-PRES. Field at Mile High in the month of December, compiling a 9-0 record Team Regular Season Postseason Total Pct. at the facility since it began playing there in 2001. 1. Denver 187-61-1 (.753) 12-3 (.800) 199-64-1 .756 2. Pittsburgh 175-71-1 (.711) 15-6 (.714) 190-77-1 .711 LONGEST ACTIVE HOME WINNING STREAKS IN DECEMBER, NFL 3. Miami 173-73-1 (.702) 11-6 (.647) 184-79-1 .699 Team Streak Last Loss 4. Dallas 165-83-0 (.665) 14-4 (.778) 179-87-0 .673 1. Kansas City 18 12/5/96 vs. Ind. 5. Washington 156-90-1 (.634) 10-1 (.909) 166-91-1 .645 2. Denver 12 12/5/99 vs. K.C. 3. New England 7 12/22/02 vs. NYJ INVESCO FIELD PROVIDES HOMEFIELD ADVANTAGE 4. Atlanta 6 12/15/02 vs. Sea. 5. Miami 5 12/5/04 vs. Buf. Since moving into INVESCO Field at Mile High before the start of the 2001 season, the Broncos have compiled a 31-9 (.775) record LONGEST HOME WIN STREAKS IN DECEMBER, BRONCOS HISTORY at the facility in regular-season action. Games Dates That winning percentage ranks as the second best in the NFL dur- 1. 12 Dec. 19, 1999, through Pres. 2. 6 Dec. 14, 1985, through Dec. 17, 1988 ing that period, trailing only the . 3. 5 Dec. 1, 1996, through Dec. 27, 1998 BEST HOME RECORDS, NFL, 2001-PRESENT 5 Dec. 8, 1974, through Dec. 10, 1978 Team Record Pct. 1. New England 32-8-0 .800 NO PLACE LIKE HOME FOR DENVER IN DECEMBER 2. Denver 31-9-0 .775 Denver's 12-game home winning streak in the month of 3. Seattle 30-10-0 .750 4. St. Louis 29-10-0 .744 December is the second-longest home winning streak in any month 5. Pittsburgh 29-10-1 .738 in franchise history. LONGEST HOME WIN STREAKS IN ANY MONTH, BRONCOS HISTORY STARTING OFF RIGHT AT HOME Games Month Dates With their 30-10 victory against Kansas City on Monday Night 1. 16 November Nov. 21, 1993, through Nov. 11, 2001 Football on Sept. 26, 2005, Denver closed out the month of 2. 12 December Dec. 19, 1999, through Pres. September with an undefeated record at home for the fourth con- 3. 10 September Sept. 10, 1989, through Sept. 12, 1993 4. 9 November Nov. 16, 1986, through Nov. 26, 1989 secutive season. The Broncos have won their last eight home 9 October Oct. 11, 1981, through Oct. 26, 1986 games in September in a streak that began with a 23-16 win over 9 September Sept. 21, 1975, through Sept. 2, 1979 St. Louis on Sept. 8, 2002, in the Broncos' season opener at INVESCO Field at Mile High. Below is a detailed look at Denver's 12-game home winning streak The Broncos will look to extend their September home winning in the month of December. streak to nine games in 2006 with their lone such contest against the Chiefs on Sept. 17.

DENVER at detroit — 26 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release TEAM NOTES DENVER'S 12-GAME HOME WIN STREAK IN DECEMBER The Broncos will have a chance to extend that streak in 2006 with Date Opponent W/L Score the club facing both Super Bowl XL teams. The Broncos visit 12/19/99 Seattle W 36-30 Pittsburgh on Nov. 5 and host Seattle on Dec. 3. 12/10/00 Seattle W 31-24 12/23/00 San Francisco W 38-9 BRONCOS CURRENT 8-GAME WINNING STREAK 12/9/01 Seattle W 20-7 VS. SUPER BOWL PARTICIPANTS FROM THE PREVIOUS SEASON 12/30/01 Oakland W 23-17 Date Opponent (Super Bowl) Winner/Runner Up Score 12/15/02 Kansas City W 31-24 9/8/02 vs. St. Louis (XXXVI) Runner Up W, 23-16 12/29/02 Arizona W 37-7 10/27/02 at New England (XXXVI) Winner W, 24-16 12/7/03 Kansas City W 45-27 9/22/03 vs. Oakland (XXXVII) Runner Up W, 31-10 12/14/03 Cleveland W 23-20 11/30/03 at Oakland (XXXVII) Runner Up W, 22-8 12/12/04 Miami W 20-17 10/10/04 vs. Carolina (XXXVIII) Runner Up W, 20-17 12/11/05 Baltimore W 12-10 10/16/05 vs. New England (XXXIX) Winner W, 28-20 12/24/05 Oakland W 22-3 10/30/05 vs. Philadelphia (XXXIX) Runner Up W, 49-21 1/14/06 vs. New England (XXXIX) Winner W, 27-13 NOVEMBER’S BEST SINCE 1995 BEEN THERE, DONE THAT The Broncos concluded the month of November with a perfect 3- 0 record, adding those wins to the NFL's best record during the With six former NFL players serving as Denver coaches in 2006, month in Head Coach Mike Shanahan's 11 seasons with the team. the Broncos have a combined 57 years and 786 regular-season Denver owns a .738 winning percentage on a 31-11 record in the games of NFL playing experience on their coaching staff. month of November since 1995, a mark that is considerably better Below are Denver's seven coaches with previous NFL playing than the next closest team (New England, .652 pct., 30-16). experience that give it one of the league's most knowledgeable staffs. BEST RECORDS IN NOVEMBER, SINCE 1995 Team Wins Losses Ties Pct. DENVER COACHES WITH NFL PLAYING EXPERIENCE 1. Denver 31 11 0 .738 Yrs. Gms. Years 2. New England 30 16 0 .652 Coach Pos. Exp. Played Played 3. Jacksonville 26 17 0 .605 Ronnie Bradford (Spec. Teams) DB 10 133 1993-95 4. Tampa Bay 27 18 0 .598 Rick Dennison (Off. Coord.) LB 9 128 1982-90 5. Pittsburgh 28 19 1 .594 Jim Ryan (Defensive Assistant) LB 10 150 1979-88 Cedric Smith (Asst. Strength) FB 7 72 ‘90-91; 94-98 NOT IN OUR HOUSE Jimmy Spencer (Assistant DBs) CB 12 177 2000-03 Steve Watson (Wide Receivers) WR 9 126 1979-87 The Broncos' run defense in home games played since 1995 has TOTAL 57 786 proven to be the toughest in the NFL, allowing the fewest yards per game during that period. In the 88 contests it has played at home ALL IN THE FAMILY since 1995, Denver is allowing an average of only 86.3 rushing Denver's 2006 coaching staff includes five individuals who once yards per game. played for the team. Below is glance at Denver's coaches who once TOP HOME RUSHING DEFENSES SINCE 1995 donned the orange and blue. Team Gms. Yds. Avg. 1. Denver 88 7,597 86.3 DENVER COACHES WHO ONCE PLAYED FOR THE BRONCOS Gms. (Starts) 2. Pittsburgh 88 7,852 89.2 Coach Pos. with Denver Years 3. Tennessee 88 8,102 92.1 Ronnie Bradford (Special Teams) DB 26 (3) 1993-95 4. San Francisco 88 8,182 93.0 Started three games at cornerback for Denver during the 1993 season. 5. San Diego 88 8,559 97.3 Rick Dennison (Offensive Coordinator) LB 128 (52) 1982-90 EIGHT-GAME WINNING STREAK AGAINST Ranked second on the Broncos with 133 tackles in 1988. SUPER BOWL PARTICIPANTS Jim Ryan (Defensive Assistant) LB 150 (91) 1979-88 Led Denver with 125 tackles in 1987 and was on two Super Bowl teams. The Broncos extended their winning streak against Super Bowl Jimmy Spencer (Assistant DBs) CB 53 (8) 2000-03 participants from the previous season to eight games with a 27-13 Returned two interceptions for touchdowns with the Broncos in 2000. win against New England in the AFC Divisional Playoff round during Steve Watson (Wide Receivers) WR 126 (87) 1979-87 the 2005 postseason. Posted three 1,000-yard seasons for Denver and had 16 100-yard games. Denver's winning streak against Super Bowl participants from the previous season began with a 23-16 victory against Super Bowl XXXVI runner-up St. Louis in the season opener that year on Sept. 8, 2002.

DENVER at detroit — 27 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release RECORDS WATCH 2006 DENVER BRONCOS RECORDS UPDATE (AS OF 8/7/06) CAREER RUSHING TDS, BRONCOS CAREER FIELD GOALS MADE, BRONCOS CB CHAMP BAILEY Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 1. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 60 1. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 341 CAREER INTERCEPTIONS, BRONCOS 2. Floyd Little, 1967-1975 43 2. Jim Turner, 1971-79 151 Rk. Player (Yrs.) INTs 3. Sammy Winder, 1982-1990 39 3. Rich Karlis, 1982-88 137 1. Steve Foley, 1976-1986 44 4. Mike Anderson, 2000-05 36 4. David Treadwell, 1989-92 99 2. Goose Gonsoulin, 1960-1966 43 5. John Elway, 1983-1998 33 5. Gene Mingo, 1960-64 72 3. Billy Thompson, 1969-1981 40 6. Clinton Portis, 2002-2003 29 6. Fred Steinfort, 1979-81 43 4. Tyrone Braxton, 1987-1999 34 7. Otis Armstrong, 1973-1980 25 7. Bobby Howfield, 1968-70 40 5. Mike Harden, 1980-1988 33 8. Jon Keyworth, 1974-1980 22 8. Gary Kroner, 1965-67 29 6. Dennis Smith, 1981-1994 30 9. Gerald Willhite, 1982-1988 17 CAREER EXTRA POINT ATTEMPTS, BRONCOS 7. Louis Wright, 1975-1986 26 10. Bobby Humphrey, 1989-1991 14 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Att. 8. Steve Atwater, 1989-1998 24 11. Steve Sewell, 1985-1991 13 1. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 537 9t. Randy Gradishar, 1974-1983 20 12t. Fran Lynch, 1967-1975 12 2. Jim Turner, 1971-79 301 9t. Tom Jackson, 1973-1986 20 12t. Rob Lytle, 1977-1983 12 3. Rich Karlis, 1982-88 254 11t. Ray Crockett, 1994-2000 17 14. Tatum Bell, 2004-Pres. 11 4. David Treadwell, 1989-92 136 11t. Charlie Greer, 1968-1974 17 CAREER 100-YARD GAMES, BRONCOS 5. Gene Mingo, 1960-64 126 13. Steve Wilson, 1982-1988 16 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Gms. 6. Bobby Howfield, 1968-70 95 14t. Willie Brown, 1963-1966 15 1. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 34 7. Fred Steinfort, 1979-81 70 14t. Deltha O'Neal, 2000-2003 15 2. Clinton Portis, 2002-03 18 8. Gary Kroner, 1965-67 58 16. Calvin Jones, 1973-1976 12 3. Floyd Little, 1967-75 15 9. Bob Humphreys, 1967-68 20 17t. Champ Bailey, 2004-Pres. 11 4. Otis Armstrog, 1973-80 13 10. Jack Hill, 1961 16 17t. Wymon Henderson, 1989-1992 11 5. Mike Anderson, 2000-05 12 17t. Randy Robbins, 1984-1991 11 CAREER EXTRA POINTS MADE, BRONCOS 6. Bobby Humphrey, 1989-91 9 17t. Bill Romanowski, 1996-2001 11 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 7. Sammy Winder, 1982-90 7 17t. Bob Swenson, 1975-1983 11 1. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 534 8. Reuben Droughns, 2002-04 6 2. Jim Turner, 1971-79 283 RB TATUM BELL 9. Gaston Green, 1991-92 5 3. Rich Karlis, 1982-88 244 10t. Tatum Bell, 2004-Pres. 4 4. David Treadwell, 1989-92 132 CAREER RUSHING YARDS, BRONCOS 10t. Olandis Gary, 1999-2002 4 5. Gene Mingo, 1960-64 120 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 6. Bobby Howfield, 1968-70 93 1. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 7,607 K JASON ELAM 7. Fred Steinfort, 1979-81 68 2. Floyd Little, 1967-1975 6,323 8. Gary Kroner, 1965-67 57 CAREER FIELD GOAL ATTEMPTS, BRONCOS 3. Sammy Winder, 1982-1990 5,427 9. Bob Humphreys, 1967-68 19 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Att. 4. Otis Armstrong, 1973-1980 4,453 10. Jack Hill, 1961 16 1. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 430 5. Mike Anderson, 2000-05 3,822 CAREER POINTS SCORED, BRONCOS 2. Jim Turner, 1971-79 232 6. John Elway, 1983-1998 3,407 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Pts. 3. Rich Karlis, 1982-88 193 7. Clinton Portis, 2002-03 3,099 1. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 1,557 4. David Treadwell, 1989-92 127 8. Jon Keyworth, 1974-1980 2,653 2. Jim Turner, 1971-79 742 5. Gene Mingo, 1960-64 119 9. Bobby Humphrey, 1989-1991 2,386 3. Rich Karlis, 1982-88 655 6. Bobby Howfield, 1968-70 79 10. Dave Preston, 1978-1983 1,793 4. David Treadwell, 1989-92 429 7. Fred Steinfort, 1979-81 64 11. Gerald Willhite, 1982-1988 1,688 5. Rod Smith, 1995-2005 410 8. Gary Kroner, 1965-67 56 12. Gaston Green, 1991-1992 1,685 6. Gene Mingo, 1960-64 408 13. Olandis Gary, 1999-2002 1,614 7. Terrell Davis, 1995-2001 396 14. Rob Lytle, 1977-1983 1,451 8. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-98, ‘02-03 336 15. Rick Parros, 1981-1984 1,330 9. Floyd Little, 1967-75 324 16. Tatum Bell, 2004-Pres. 1,317 10. Sammy Winder, 1982-90 288

DENVER at detroit — 28 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release RECORDS WATCH CAREER GAMES PLAYED, BRONCOS CAREER EXTRA POINT ATTEMPTS, NFL Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. Rk. Player (Yrs.) Att. P MICAH KNORR 1. John Elway, 1983-98 234 1. George Blanda, 1949-1975 958 2. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 204 2. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 827 CAREER PUNTS, BRONCOS 3. Tom Jackson, 1973-86 191 3. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 808 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts 4. Paul Howard, 1973-86 187 4. Lou Groza, 1950-1967 657 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 641 5. Dennis Smith, 1981-94 184 5. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 644 2. Bill Van Heusen, 1968-76 574 6. Barney Chavous, 1973-85 182 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 601 3. Luke Prestridge, 1979-83 377 7. Karl Mecklenburg, 1983-94 180 7. Pat Leahy, 1974-1991 584 4. Mike Horan, 1986-92 374 8. Bill Thompson, 1969-81 179 8. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 568 5. Bob Scarpitto, 1962-67 248 9. Ken Lanier, 1981-92, ‘94 177 9. Jim Bakken, 1962-1978 *553 6. Chris Norman, 1984-86 218 10. Tom Nalen, 1994-Pres. 173 10. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 551 7. Jim Fraser, 1962-64 204 8. Bucky Dilts, 1977-78 186 CAREER FIELD GOAL ATTEMPTS, NFL 11. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 545 9. George Herring, 1960-61 150 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Att. 12. Jim Turner, 1964-1979 543 10. Micah Knorr, 2002-04 146 1. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 672 13t. Jim Breech, 1979-1992 539 2. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 658 13t. Fred Cox, 1963-1977 539 CAREER PUNTING YARDS, BRONCOS 3. George Blanda, 1949-1975 637 15. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 537 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts 4. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 558 CAREER EXTRA POINTS MADE, NFL 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 28,146 5. Jim Turner, 1964-1979 488 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 2. Bill Van Heusen, 1968-1976 23,936 6. John Carney, 1988-Pres. 480 1. George Blanda, 1949-1975 942 3. Mike Horan, 1986-1992 15,911 7. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 479 2. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 820 4. Luke Prestridge, 1979-1983 15,754 8. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 477 3. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 798 5. Bob Scarpitto, 1962-1967 11,026 9. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 466 4. Lou Groza, 1950-1967 641 6. Jim Fraser, 1962-1964 9,221 10t. Mark Moseley, 1970-1986 457 5. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 638 7 Chris Norman, 1984-1986 8,782 10t. Matt Stover, 1991-Pres. 457 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 580 8. Bucky Dilts, 1977-1978 7,019 12. Fred Cox, 1963-1977 455 7. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 562 9. Micah Knorr, 2002-2004 6,086 13. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 449 8. Pat Leahy, 1974-1991 558 10. George Herring, 1960-1961 5,759 14. Jim Bakken, 1962-1978 447 9. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 543 CAREER PUNTS INSIDE 20, BRONCOS 15. Steve Christie, 1990-2004 431 10. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 538 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts 16. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 430 11t. Jim Bakken, 1962-1978 534 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 182 CAREER FIELD GOALS MADE, NFL 11t. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 534 2. Mike Horan, 1986-1992 107 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. CAREER POINTS SCORED, NFL 3. Luke Prestridge, 1979-1983 80 1. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 538 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Pts. 4. Bucky Dilts, 1977-1978 42 2. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 520 1. Gary Anderson, 1982-2004 2,434 5t. Micah Knorr, 2002-2004 34 3. John Carney, 1988-Pres. 390 2. Morten Andersen, 1982-2004 2,358 5t. Chris Norman, 1984-1986 34 4. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 383 3. George Blanda, 1949-1975 2,002 7. Todd Sauerbrun, 2005-Pres. 24 5. Matt Stover, 1991-Pres. 380 4. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 1,736 8. , 2004-2004 7 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 373 5. Nick Lowery, 1978-1996 1,711 9t. Norris Weese, 1976-1979 5 7. Norm Johnson, 1982-1999 366 6. Jan Stenerud, 1967-1985 1,699 9t. Jack Weil, 1986-1986 5 8. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 352 7. John Carney, 1988-Pres. 1,634 9. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 347 8t. Eddie Murray, 1980-2000 1,594 C TOM NALEN 10. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 341 8t. Matt Stover, 1991-2005 1,594 CAREER GAMES PLAYED, BRONCOS 10. Al Del Greco, 1984-2000 1,584 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 11. Jason Elam, 1993-Pres. 1,557 1. John Elway, 1983-98 234 2. Jason Elam, 1993-2005 204 3. Tom Jackson, 1973-86 191 4. Paul Howard, 1973-86 187 5. Dennis Smith, 1981-94 184 6. Barney Chavous, 1973-85 182 7. Karl Mecklenburg, 1983-94 180 8. Bill Thompson, 1969-81 179 9. Ken Lanier, 1981-92, ‘94 177 10. Tom Nalen, 1994-Pres. 173 DENVER at detroit — 29 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release RECORDS WATCH CAREER GAMES STARTED, BRONCOS CAREER TOUCHDOWN PASSES, BRONCOS CAREER WINS AS A STARTER, BRONCOS Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. Rk. Player (Yrs.) TDs Rk. Player (Yrs.) Wins 1. John Elway, 1983-98 231 1. John Elway, 1983-98 300 1. John Elway, 1983-98 148 2. Bill Thompson, 1969-81 178 2. Craig Morton, 1977-82 74 2. Craig Morton, 1977-82 40 3t. Barney Chavous, 1973-85 177 3. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 71 3. Jake Plummer, 2003-05 32 3t. Tom Jackson, 1973-86 177 4. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 60 4. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 27 5. Dennis Smith, 1981-94 170 5. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 52 5. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 20 6. Tom Nalen, 1994-Pres. 167 6. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 51 6t. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 14 7. Louis Wright, 1975-86 163 7. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 38 6t. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 14 8. Steve Atwater, 1989-98 155 8. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 35 8. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 7 9t. Billy Bryan, 1977-88 151 9. Steve DeBerg, 1981-83 22 9t. Rubin Carter, 1975-86 151 10. Mickey Slaughter, 1963-66 22 P TODD SAUERBRUN CAREER 300-YARD GAMES, BRONCOS QB JAKE PLUMMER Rk. Player (Yrs.) Gms. CAREER PUNTS, BRONCOS 1. John Elway, 1983-98 40 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts CAREER PASSING YARDS, BRONCOS 2. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 12 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 641 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 3. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 5 2. Bill Van Heusen, 1968-76 574 1. John Elway, 1983-98 51,475 4t. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 4 3. Luke Prestridge, 1979-83 377 2. Craig Morton, 1977-82 11,895 4t. Craig Morton, 1977-82 4 4. Mike Horan, 1986-92 374 3. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 11,763 6t. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 3 5. Bob Scarpitto, 1962-67 248 4. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 9,637 6t. Steve DeBerg, 1981-83 3 6. Chris Norman, 1984-86 218 5. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 7,676 8t. Gus Frerotte, 2000-01 1 7. Jim Fraser, 1962-64 204 6. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 7,238 8t. Jacky Lee, 1964-65 1 8. Bucky Dilts, 1977-78 186 7. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 6,437 8t. John McCormick, 1963-66, ‘68 1 9. George Herring, 1960-61 150 8. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 5,153 8t. Marlin Briscoe, 1968 1 10. Micah Knorr, 2002-04 146 9. Steve DeBerg, 1981-83 3,819 8t. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 1 11. Todd Sauerbrun, 2005-Pres. 72 10. Mickey Slaughter, 1963-66 3,607 CAREER YDS. OF OFFENSE, BRONCOS CAREER PUNTING YARDS, BRONCOS CAREER PASSING ATTEMPTS, BRONCOS Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts (rushing and passing) Rk. Player (Yrs.) Att. 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 28,146 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 1. John Elway, 1983-98 7,250 2. Bill Van Heusen, 1968-1976 23,936 1. John Elway, 1983-98 54,882 2. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 1,678 3. Mike Horan, 1986-1992 15,911 2. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 12,279 3. Craig Morton, 1977-82 1,594 4. Luke Prestridge, 1979-1983 15,754 3. Craig Morton, 1977-82 12,155 4. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 1,279 5. Bob Scarpitto, 1962-1967 11,026 4. Jake Plummer, 2003-05 10,195 5. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 1,277 6. Jim Fraser, 1962-1964 9,221 5. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 7,651 6. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 970 7 Chris Norman, 1984-1986 8,782 6. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 7,607 7. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 919 8. Bucky Dilts, 1977-1978 7,019 7. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 7,252 8. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 810 9. Micah Knorr, 2002-2004 6,086 8. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 6,437 9. Mickey Slaughter, 1963-66 584 10. George Herring, 1960-1961 5,759 9. Floyd Little, 1967-75 6,366 10. Steve DeBerg, 1981-83 546 11. Todd Sauerbrun, 2005-Pres. 3,157 10. Sammy Winder, 1982-90 5,428 CAREER PASS COMPLETIONS, BRONCOS CAREER PUNTS INSIDE 20, BRONCOS RUSHING YDS. BY A QB, BRONCOS Rk. Player (Yrs.) Comp. Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 1. John Elway, 1983-98 4,123 1. Tom Rouen, 1993-2002 182 1. John Elway, 1983-98 3,407 2. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 1,044 2. Mike Horan, 1986-1992 107 2. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 558 3. Craig Morton, 1977-82 907 3. Luke Prestridge, 1979-1983 80 3. Brian Griese, 1998-2002 516 4. Jake Plummer, 2003-Pres. 769 4. Bucky Dilts, 1977-1978 42 4. Norris Weese, 1976-79 362 5. Frank Tripucka, 1960-63 662 5t. Micah Knorr, 2002-2004 34 5. Mickey Slaughter, 1963-66 266 6. Charley Johnson, 1972-75 517 5t. Chris Norman, 1984-1986 34 7. Steve Ramsey, 1971-76 456 7. Todd Sauerbrun, 2005-Pres. 24 8. Steve Tensi, 1967-70 348 8. Jason Baker, 2004-2004 7 9. Steve DeBerg, 1981-83 314 9t. Norris Weese, 1976-1979 5 10. Mickey Slaughter, 1963-66 291 9t. Jack Weil, 1986-1986 5

DENVER at detroit — 30 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release RECORDS WATCH CAREER PUNTS INSIDE 20, NFL CAREER TD RECEPTIONS, BRONCOS CAREER RECEIVING YARDS, NFL Rk. Player (Yrs.) Punts Rk. Player (Yrs.) TDs Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 1. Jeff Feagles, 1988-2005 456 1. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 65 1. Jerry Rice, 1985-2004 22,895 2. , 1985-2005 381 2. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 55 2. Tim Brown, 1988-2004 14,934 3. Bryan Barker, 1990-2005 326 3. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 46 3. James Lofton, 1978-1993 14,004 4. Lee Johnson, 1985-2002 318 4t. Haven Moses, 1972-81 44 4. Cris Carter, 1987-2002 13,899 5. Craig Hentrich, 1994-2005 313 4t. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 44 5. Henry Ellard, 1983-1998 13,777 6. Chris Gardocki, 1991-2005 311 6. Riley Odoms, 1972-81 41 6. Andre Reed, 1985-2000 13,198 7. Reggie Roby, 1983-1998 298 7. Vance Johnson, 1985-93, ‘95 37 7. Steve Largent, 1976-1989 13,089 8. Dan Stryzinski, 1990-2003 293 8. Steve Watson, 1979-87 36 8. Irving Fryar, 1984-2000 12,785 9. Mark Royals, 1987-2003 286 9. Al Denson, 1964-70 32 9. Art Monk, 1980-1995 12,721 10. Chris Mohr, 1989-2004 281 10t. Mark Jackson, 1986-92 24 10. Marvin Harrison, 1996-Pres. 12,331 11. , 1981-1996 279 10t. , 1975-83 24 11. Jimmy Smith, 1992-2005 12,287 12. , 1982-1997 272 10t. Bob Scarpitto, 1962-67 24 12. Isaac Bruce, 1994-Pres. 12,278 13. , 1997-Pres. 266 CAREER 100-YARD GAMES, BRONCOS 13. Charlie Joiner, 1969-1986 12,146 14t. Darren Bennett, 1995-Pres. 262 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 14. Michael Irvin, 1988-1999 11,904 14t. Mike Horan, 1984-1999 262 1. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 30 15. Don Maynard, 1958-1973 11,834 16. Matt Turk, 1995-2004 252 2. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 24 16. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 10,877 17. John Kidd, 1984-1998 251 3. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 18 CAREER YDS. FROM SCRIMMAGE, BRONCOS 18. Jeff Gossett, 1981-1996 250 4. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 17 (rushing and receiving) 19t. Todd Sauerbrun, 1995-Pres. 248 5. Steve Watson, 1979-87 15 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 19t. Tom Tupa, 1988-2004 248 6. Al Denson, 1964-70 10 1. Rod Smith, 1994-Pres. 11,230 7t. Vance Johnson, 1985-93, 1995 9 2. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 8,887 WR ROD SMITH 7t. Anthony Miller, 1994-96 9 3. Floyd Little, 1967-75 8,741 7t. Haven Moses, 1972-81 9 4. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 8,448 CAREER RECEPTIONS, BRONCOS 10. Mark Jackson, 1986-92 8 5. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 6,892 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Rec. CAREER RECEPTIONS, NFL 6. Sammy Winder, 1982-90 6,729 1. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 797 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Rec. 7. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 6,221 2. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 675 1. Jerry Rice, 1985-2004 1,549 8. Steve Watson, 1979-87 6,131 3. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 543 2. Cris Carter, 1987-2002 1,101 9. Riley Odoms, 1972-83 5,966 4. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 462 3. Tim Brown, 1988-2004 1,094 10. Otis Armstrong, 1973-80 5,755 5. Vance Johnson, 1985-93, 1995 415 4. Andre Reed, 1985-2000 951 CAREER PUNT RETURNS, BRONCOS 6. Riley Odoms, 1972-83 396 5. Art Monk, 1980-1995 940 Rk. Player (Yrs.) No. 7. Steve Watson, 1979-87 353 6. Marvin Harrison, 1996-Pres. 927 1. Rick Upchurch, 1975-198 248 8. Haven Moses, 1972-81 302 7. Jimmy Smith, 1992-2005 862 2. Billy Thompson, 1969-1981 157 9. Mark Jackson, 1986-92 276 8. Irving Fryar, 1984-2000 851 3. Deltha O'Neal, 2000-200 128 10. Rick Upchurch, 1975-83 267 9. Larry Centers, 1990-2003 827 4. Glyn Milburn, 1993-1995 112 CAREER RECEIVING YARDS, BRONCOS 10. Keenan McCardell, 1992-Pres. 825 5. Gerald Willhite, 1982-1988 101 Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 11. Steve Largent, 1976-1989 819 6t. Vance Johnson, 1985-1995 81 1. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 10,877 12. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-2003 815 6t. Floyd Little, 1967-1975 81 2. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 8,439 13. Henry Ellard, 1983-1998 814 8. Darrien Gordon, 1997-1998 74 3. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 6,872 14. Isaac Bruce, 1994-Pres. 813 9. Kevin Clark, 1987-1991 59 4. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 6,200 15. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 797 10t. Charlie Greer, 1968-1974 55 5. Steve Watson, 1979-87 6,112 10t. Ricky Nattiel, 1987-1992 55 6. Riley Odoms, 1972-83 5,755 12. , 1983-1984 53 7. Vance Johnson, 1985-93, 1995 5,695 13. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 52 8. Haven Moses, 1972-81 5,450 9. Mark Jackson, 1986-92 4,746 10. Rick Upchurch, 1975-83 4,369

DENVER at detroit — 31 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 broncos 2006 weekly release RECORDS WATCH CAREER PUNT RETURN YARDS, BRONCOS Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 1. Rick Upchurch, 1975-83 3,008 2. Bill Thompson, 1969-81 1,814 3. Deltha O’Neal, 2000-03 1,325 4. Glyn Milburn, 1993-95 1,158 5. Gerald Willhite, 1982-88 1,012 6. Darrien Gordon, 1997-98 922 7. Floyd Little, 1967-75 893 8. Vance Johnson, 1985-91 689 9. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 645 10. Kevin Clark, 1987-91 574 CAREER COMBINED YARDS, BRONCOS (rushing/receiving/returns) Rk. Player (Yrs.) Yds. 1. Floyd Little, 1967-75 12,173 2. Rod Smith, 1995-Pres. 11,979 3. Rick Upchurch, 1975-83 10,081 4. Terrell Davis, 1995-2002 8,880 5. Shannon Sharpe, 1990-99, ‘02-03 8,448 6. Vance Johnson, 1985-93, ‘95 7,455 7. Lionel Taylor, 1960-66 6,895 8. Sammy Winder, 1982-90 6,786 9. Otis Armstrong, 1973-80 6,634 10. Ed McCaffrey, 1995-2003 6,221

DENVER at detroit — 32 — friday, aug. 11, 2006 DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL REGULAR-SEASON TEAM STATISTICS (13-3)

Date W-L Score OT Opponent Attendance Rushing No. Yds Avg Long TD 09/11 L 10-34 at Miami 72,324 Mi. Anderson 239 1014 4.2 44t 12 09/18 W 20-17 San Diego 75,310 Bell 173 921 5.3 68 8 09/26 W 30-10 Kansas City 76,381 Dayne 53 270 5.1 55 1 10/02 W 20-7 at Jacksonville 66,045 Plummer 46 151 3.3 22 2 10/09 W 21-19 Washington 75,880 Lelie 5 84 16.8 39 0 10/16 W 28-20 New England 76,571 Van Pelt 11 48 4.4 11 1 10/23 L 23-24 at New York Giants 78,516 Sapp 5 21 4.2 10 0 10/30 W 49-21 Philadelphia 76,530 Adams 5 14 2.8 13 0 11/13 W 31-17 at Oakland 62,779 Johnson 4 9 2.3 4 1 11/20 W 27-0 New York Jets 76,255 Smith 1 7 7.0 7 0 11/24 W 24-21 OT at Dallas 63,273 Team 542 2539 4.7 68 25 12/04 L 27-31 at Kansas City 78,261 Opponents 344 1363 4.0 61 10

12/11 W 12-10 Baltimore 75,651 12/17 W 28-17 at Buffalo 71,887 Receiving No. Yds Avg Long TD 12/24 W 22-3 Oakland 76,212 Smith 85 1105 13.0 72 6 12/31 W 23-7 at San Diego 65,513 Lelie 42 770 18.3 56 1 Putzier 37 481 13.0 32 0 Denver Opponent Adams 21 203 9.7 21 0 Total First Downs 330 295 S. Alexander 21 170 8.1 15 1 Rushing 145 82 Mi. Anderson 18 212 11.8 66t 1 Passing 162 183 Bell 18 104 5.8 14 0 Penalty 23 30 Johnson 17 160 9.4 33 5 3rd Down: Made/Att 76/210 76/207 Devoe 9 87 9.7 44t 1 3rd Down Pct. 36.2 36.7 Dayne 3 17 5.7 7 0 4th Down: Made/Att 14/19 10/19 4th Down Pct. 73.7 52.6 Duke 2 22 11.0 21 1 Possession Avg. 32:37 27:23 Watts 2 22 11.0 12 0 Total Net Yards 5766 5006 Sapp 2 17 8.5 12 0 Avg. Per Game 360.4 312.9 Carswell 2 3 1.5 2t 2 Total Plays 1030 985 Team 279 3373 12.1 72 18 Avg. Per Play 5.6 5.1 Opponents 344 3833 11.1 91t 20

Net Yards Rushing 2539 1363 Avg. Per Game 158.7 85.2 Interceptions No. Yds Avg Long TD Total Rushes 542 344 Bailey 8 139 17.4 65t 2 Net Yards Passing 3227 3643 Ferguson 5 59 11.8 30 0 Avg. Per Game 201.7 227.7 Da. Williams 2 108 54.0 80t 1 Sacked/Yards Lost 23/146 28/190 Foxworth 2 23 11.5 23 0 Gross Yards 3373 3833 Lynch 2 2 1.0 1 0 Att./Completions 465/279 613/344 Completion Pct. 60.0 56.1 Cox 1 48 48.0 48 0 Had Intercepted 7 20 Team 20 379 19.0 80t 3 Opponents 7 43 6.1 25 0 Punts/Average 73/43.2 81/44.9 Net Punting Avg. 73/38.0 81/38.2 Penalties/Yards 97/756 139/989 Punting No. Yds Avg Net TB In Lg B Fumbles/Ball Lost 19/9 29/16 Sauerbrun 72 3157 43.8 38.0 6 24 66 1 Touchdowns 46 31 Team 73 3157 43.2 38.0 6 24 66 1 Rushing 25 10 Opponents 81 3633 44.9 38.2 13 25 64 0 Passing 18 20 Returns 3 1 Punt Returns Ret FC Yds Avg Long TD Score By Periods Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 OT PTS Da. Williams 17 12 148 8.7 52 0 Team 81 143 83 85 3 395 Adams 16 5 133 8.3 32 0 Opponents 44 61 37 116 0 258 Team 33 17 281 8.5 52 0 Opponents 36 15 266 7.4 20 0

Scoring TD Rush Rec Ret K-PAT FG S PTS Elam 0 0 0 0 43/44 24/32 0 115 Kickoff Returns No. Yds Avg Long TD Mi. Anderson 13 12 1 0 0 78 Da. Williams 18 431 23.9 36 0 Bell 8 8 0 0 0 48 R. Alexander 12 261 21.8 31 0 Johnson 6 1 5 0 0 36 Adams 10 218 21.8 32 0 Smith 6 0 6 0 0 36 Sapp 2 28 14.0 20 0 Bailey 2 0 0 2 0 12 Mi. Anderson 1 18 18.0 18 0 Carswell 2 0 2 0 0 12 Carswell 1 0 0.0 0 0 Plummer 2 2 0 0 0 12 Engelberger 1 5 5.0 5 0 S. Alexander 1 0 1 0 0 6 Johnson 1 8 8.0 8 0 Dayne 1 1 0 0 0 6 Veal 1 6 6.0 6 0 Devoe 1 0 1 0 0 6 Duke 1 0 1 0 0 6 Team 47 975 20.7 36 0 Opponents 67 1696 25.3 87 0 Lelie 1 0 1 0 0 6 Van Pelt 1 1 0 0 0 6 Da. Williams 1 0 0 1 0 6 Field Goals 1-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50+ Putzier 0 0 0 0 0 2 Elam 0/0 9/10 5/5 9/13 1/4 Veal 0 0 0 0 1 2 Team 0/0 9/10 5/5 9/13 1/4 Team 46 25 18 3 43/44 24/32 1 395 Opponents 0/0 3/3 6/8 4/5 1/2 Opponents 31 10 20 1 30/30 14/18 0 258

Elam: (28G)(45G,53N,53N,41G)(30G,51G,25G,46N) 2-Pt. Conversions: Putzier, Team 1-2, Opponents 0-1 (41N,46B,33G,42G)()()(49G,42G,27G,49N)()(22G, Sacks: Ekuban 4, Lynch 4, Pryce 4, Gold 3, Warren 3, Wilson 3, Brown 2, 38G,25G)(26G,47G)(24G)(22G,40G)(47G,48G)() (29G,33G,34G,52N)(28N) Coleman 1, M. Myers 1, Veal 1, Da. Williams 1, (group) 1, Team 28, Opponents 23 Opponents: (29G,44G)(42G)(28G)()(34G,38B,36G) (39G,53N,38G)(52G)()(45N,40G)()(34N)(34G)(29G) (31G)(43G)()

Passing Att Cmp Yds Cmp% Yds/Att TD TD% Int Int% Long Sack/Lost Rating

Plummer 456 277 3366 60.7 7.38 18 3.9 7 1.5 72 22/135 90.2

Van Pelt 8 2 7 25.0 0.88 0 0.0 0 0.0 5 0/0 39.6

Smith 1 0 0 0.0 0.00 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 1/11 39.6 Team 465 279 3373 60.0 7.25 18 3.9 7 1.5 72 23/146 88.9

Opponents 613 344 3833 56.1 6.25 20 3.3 20 3.3 91t 28/190 72.2

DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL REGULAR-SEASON DEFENSIVE STATISTICS (13-3) (based on coaches' film review) PLAYER TT UT A S Yds. I Yds. PD FF FR 1 Gold 106 81 25 3.0 17.0 0054 2 2 Wilson 90 72 18 3.0 12.0 0092 1 3 Ferguson 81 62 19 0.0 0.0 5 59 12 2 1 4 Bailey 72 62 10 0.0 0.0 8 139 28 2 0 5 Lynch 69 47 22 4.0 41.0 2284 0 6 Williams, D.J. 68 44 24 0.0 0.0 0051 0 7 Foxworth 66 59 7 0.0 0.0 2 23 18 1 1 8 Williams, Da. 58 52 6 1.0 8.0 2 108 12 1 1 9 Myers 50 28 22 1.0 10.0 0020 1 10 Warren 42 22 20 3.0 25.0 0031 0 11 Ekuban 41 28 13 4.0 21.0 0020 1 Pryce 41 35 6 4.0 22.0 0011 0 13 Brown 38 30 8 2.0 14.0 0010 2 14 Veal 33 23 10 1.0 14.0 0000 1 15 Engelberger 24 17 7 0.0 0.0 0000 0 16 Brandon 20 13 7 0.0 0.0 0030 1 17 Walls 16 16 0 0.0 0.0 0061 0 18 Cox 11 9 2 0.0 0.0 1 48 5 0 0 19 Coleman 10 6 4 1.0 6.0 0010 0 20 Paymah 3 2 1 0.0 0.0 0000 0 21 Burns 2 0 2 0.0 0.0 0000 0 Chukwurah 2 1 1 0.0 0.0 0000 0 Pope 2 2 0 0.0 0.0 0000 0 24 Team 0 0 0 1.0 0.0 0000 0 TOTALS 945 711 234 28.0 190.0 20 379 121 20 12

DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL REGULAR-SEASON SPECIAL-TEAMS STATISTICS (13-3) (based on press box statistics) PLAYER TT UT A FF FR BK BP TD 1 Burns 17 16 101000 2 Paymah 11 9200000 3 Green 10 8200000 4 Cox 98100000 5 Devoe 88012000 6 Chukwurah 75200000 Foxworth 77001000 Sapp 76112000 9 Alexander, R. 64201000 Brandon 65110000 11 Leach 55000000 12 Anderson, Ma. 43100000 Johnson 43100000 14 Ferguson 22000000 Williams, D.J. 22010000 Williams, Da. 22000000 17 Abdullah 11000000 Adams 11000000 Engelberger 11000000 Walls 11000000 21 Pryce 00000100 TOTALS 111 97 14 47100

MISC. TACKLES: Smith 3, S. Alexander 1, Dayne 1, Hamilton 1, DEFENSIVE TOUCHDOWNS: Bailey, 1 vs. S.D. (9/18), 1 at Dal. (11/24) Lelie 1, Nalen 1, Plummer 1, Putzier 1. Da. Williams, 1 at Oak. (11/13). MISC. RECOVERIES: Carlisle 2, Bell 1, Plummer 1. TWO-POINT CONVERSION STOPS: Gold, 1 vs. Was. (10/9). MISC. FORCED FUMBLES: None. BLOCKED PUNTS: None. SAFETY: Veal, 1 at S.D. (12/31). BLOCKED KICKS: Pryce, 1 vs. Was. (10/9). DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL POSTSEASON TEAM STATISTICS (1-1)

Date W-L Score OT Opponent Attendance Rushing No. Yds Avg Long TD 01/14 W 27-13 New England (Divisional Playoff) 76,238 Mi. Anderson 28 105 3.8 18 3 01/22 L 17-34 Pittsburgh (AFC Championship) 76,755 Bell 11 50 4.5 11 0 Plummer 14 38 2.7 8 0

Team 53 193 3.6 18 3 Opponents 54 169 3.1 17 2

Receiving No. Yds Avg Long TD Smith 10 157 15.7 42 1 Lelie 7 118 16.9 38 1 Putzier 7 92 13.1 24 0 Denver Opponent Bell 5 28 5.6 9 0 Total First Downs 32 35 Mi. Anderson 4 25 6.3 14 0 Rushing 11 8 Team 33 420 12.7 42 2 Passing 17 27 Opponents 41 616 15.0 73 3 Penalty 4 0

3rd Down: Made/Att 9/25 13/27

3rd Down Pct. 36.0 48.1 Interceptions No. Yds Avg Long TD 4th Down: Made/Att 2/4 0/1 Bailey 1 100 100.0 100 0 4th Down Pct. 50.0 0.0 Lynch 1 5 5.0 5 0 Possession Avg. 27:51 32:09 Team 2 105 52.5 100 0 Total Net Yards 594 778 Opponents 3 15 5.0 14 0

Avg. Per Game 297.0 389.0

Total Plays 114 121 Avg. Per Play 5.2 6.4 Punting No. Yds Avg Net TB In Lg B Net Yards Rushing 193 169 Sauerbrun 8 361 45.1 38.9 0 4 58 0 Avg. Per Game 96.5 84.5 Team 8 361 45.1 38.9 0 4 58 0 Total Rushes 53 54 Opponents 7 294 42.0 37.7 1 2 50 0

Net Yards Passing 401 609 Avg. Per Game 200.5 304.5 Sacked/Yards Lost 5/19 2/7 Punt Returns Ret FC Yds Avg Long TD Gross Yards 420 616 Adams 1 4 10 10.0 10 0 Att./Completions 56/33 65/41 Team 1 4 10 10.0 10 0 Opponents 5 2 50 10.0 14 0 Completion Pct. 58.9 63.1

Had Intercepted 3 2

Punts/Average 8/45.1 7/42.0 Net Punting Avg. 8/38.9 7/37.7 Kickoff Returns No. Yds Avg Long TD Penalties/Yards 8/44 16/143 Adams 7 164 23.4 47 0 Fumbles/Ball Lost 3/2 4/3 Sapp 1 11 11.0 11 0 Touchdowns 5 5 Da. Williams 1 19 19.0 19 0 Rushing 3 2 Team 9 194 21.6 47 0 Opponents 8 192 24.0 32 0 Passing 2 3

Returns 0 0

Field Goals 1-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50+ Score By Periods Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 OT PTS Elam 0/0 1/1 1/1 0/0 1/1 Team 0 13 14 17 0 44 Team 0/0 1/1 1/1 0/0 1/1 Opponents 3 24 3 17 0 47 Opponents 0/0 0/0 1/1 3/4 0/0

Scoring TD Rush Rec Ret K-PAT FG S PTS Elam: (50G,34G)(23G) Mi. Anderson 3 3 0 0 0 18 Team: (50G,34G)(23G) Elam 0 0 0 0 5/5 3/3 0 14 Opponents: (40G,32G,43N)(47G,42G)

Lelie 1 0 1 0 0 6 Smith 1 0 1 0 0 6 Team 5 3 2 0 5/5 3/3 0 44 Opponents 5 2 3 0 5/5 4/5 0 47

2-Pt. Conversions: Team 0-0, Opponents 0-0 Sacks: M. Myers 1, D.J. Williams 0.5, Pryce 0.5, Team 2, Opponents 5

Passing Att Cmp Yds Cmp% Yds/Att TD TD% Int Int% Long Sack/Lost Rating Plummer 56 33 420 58.9 7.50 2 3.6 3 5.4 42 5/19 72.0

Team 56 33 420 58.9 7.50 2 3.6 3 5.4 42 5/19 72.0 Opponents 65 41 616 63.1 9.48 3 4.6 2 3.1 73 2/7 96.7

DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL POSTSEASON DEFENSIVE STATISTICS (1-1) (based on coaches' film review) PLAYER TT UT A S Yds. I Yds. PD FF FR 1 Foxworth 20 13 7 0.0 0.0 0010 0 2 Williams, D.J. 17 10 7 0.5 3.5 0000 0 3 Wilson 15 11 4 0.0 0.0 0020 0 4 Ferguson 14 9 5 0.0 0.0 0011 0 5 Gold 11 8 3 0.0 0.0 0000 1 6 Lynch 9 7 2 0.0 0.0 1530 0 7 Brown 8 8 0 0.0 0.0 0011 0 Myers 8 7 1 1.0 0.0 0000 0 9 Coleman 6 6 0 0.0 0.0 0000 0 Warren 6 2 4 0.0 0.0 0000 0 11 Bailey 5 3 2 0.0 0.0 1 100 4 0 0 12 Ekuban 4 2 2 0.0 0.0 0000 0 Pryce 4 2 2 0.5 3.5 0000 0 14 Brandon 3 2 1 0.0 0.0 0000 0 Williams, Da. 3 3 0 0.0 0.0 0000 0 16 Veal 1 1 0 0.0 0.0 0000 0 TOTALS 134 94 40 2.0 7.0 2 105 12 2 1

DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL POSTSEASON SPECIAL-TEAMS STATISTICS (1-1) (based on press box statistics) PLAYER TT UT A FF FR BK BP TD 1 Brandon 22000000 Burns 22000000 Sapp 22001000 4 Bell 11000000 Chukwurah 11000000 Green 11000000 Johnson 11000000 Paymah 11000000 Sauerbrun 11010000 10 Leach 00001000 TOTALS 12 12 012000

MISC. TACKLES: Nalen 2, Alexander, S. 1, Hamilton 1. DEFENSIVE TOUCHDOWNS: None. MISC. FUMBLE RECOVERIES: None. TWO-POINT CONVERSION STOPS: None. MISC. FORCED FUMBLES: None. BLOCKED PUNTS: None. SAFETIES: None. BLOCKED KICKS: None. DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL PRESEASON TEAM STATISTICS (4-0)

Date W-L Score OT Opponent Attendance Rushing No. Yds Avg Long TD 08/13 W 20-14 at Houston 70,016 Mi. Anderson 24 210 8.8 93t 2 08/20 W 26-21 San Francisco 70,794 Dayne 35 187 5.3 23 0 08/27 W 37-24 Indianapolis 74,152 Bell 28 153 5.5 35 1 09/02 W 30-21 at Arizona 40,888 Van Pelt 15 110 7.3 40 0 Griffin 24 89 3.7 11 0 Denver Opponent Mauck 5 23 4.6 16t 1 Total First Downs 84 76 Plummer 3 18 6.0 12 0 Rushing 38 25 Devoe 1 8 8.0 8 0 Passing 42 40 Luke 1 3 3.0 3 0 Penalty 4 11 Friehauf 1 -1 -1.0 -1 0 3rd Down: Made/Att 26/58 18/54 Team 137 800 5.8 93t 4 3rd Down Pct. 44.8 33.3 Opponents 103 420 4.1 23t 2 4th Down: Made/Att 1/2 1/4 4th Down Pct. 50.0 25.0 Receiving No. Yds Avg Long TD Possession Avg. 31:42 28:18 Devoe 10 200 20.0 92t 2 Total Net Yards 1613 1251 Watts 8 87 10.9 22t 2 Avg. Per Game 403.3 312.8 Lelie 6 134 22.3 40t 1 Total Plays 265 254 Adams 6 77 12.8 19 0 Avg. Per Play 6.1 4.9 Smith 6 76 12.7 17 0 Net Yards Rushing 800 420 Mi. Anderson 5 44 8.8 20 1 Avg. Per Game 200.0 105.0 Putzier 4 76 19.0 28t 1 Total Rushes 137 103 Dayne 4 27 6.8 10 0 Net Yards Passing 813 831 Rice 4 24 6.0 8 0 Avg. Per Game 203.3 207.8 K. Johnson 3 45 15.0 27 0 Sacked/Yards Lost 9/63 14/76 Luke 3 28 9.3 16 0 Gross Yards 876 907 Bell 3 23 7.7 13 0 Att./Completions 119/67 137/82 S. Alexander 2 4 2.0 3t 1 Completion Pct. 56.3 59.9 Duke 1 20 20.0 20 0 Had Intercepted 1 1 Jackson 1 13 13.0 13 0 Punts/Average 15/43.5 24/42.4 Griffin 1 -2 -2.0 -2 0 Net Punting Avg. 15/35.0 24/33.1 Team 67 876 13.1 92t 8 Penalties/Yards 33/323 39/292 Opponents 82 907 11.1 58t 8 Fumbles/Ball Lost 6/1 8/2 Touchdowns 12 10 Interceptions No. Yds Avg Long TD Rushing 4 2 Brandon 1 13 13.0 13 0 Passing 8 8 Team 1 13 13.0 13 0 Returns 0 0 Opponents 1 0 0.0 0 0

Punting No. Yds Avg Net TB In Lg B Sauerbrun 14 611 43.6 34.6 2 1 58 0 Score By Periods Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 OT PTS Ernster 1 41 41.0 41.0 0 0 41 0 Team 23 31 24 35 0 113 Team 15 652 43.5 35.0 2 1 58 0 Opponents 14 27 10 29 0 80 Opponents 24 1017 42.4 33.1 2 6 58 0

Punt Returns Ret FC Yds Avg Long TD Adams 7 1 123 17.6 39 0 Scoring TD Rush Rec Ret K-PAT FG S PTS Da. Williams 5 3 15 3.0 14 0 Elam 0 0 0 0 11/11 10/12 0 41 Luke 2 0 44 22.0 44 0 Mi. Anderson 3 2 1 0 0 18 Team 14 4 182 13.0 44 0 Devoe 2 0 2 0 0 12 Opponents 10 2 87 8.7 17 0 Watts 2 0 2 0 0 12 S. Alexander 1 0 1 0 0 6 Kickoff Returns No. Yds Avg Long TD Bell 1 1 0 0 0 6 Da. Williams 2 50 25.0 26 0 Lelie 1 0 1 0 0 6 R. Alexander 1 20 20.0 20 0 Mauck 1 1 0 0 0 6 Luke 1 15 15.0 15 0 Putzier 1 0 1 0 0 6 Team 4 85 21.3 26 0 Dayne 0 0 0 0 0 0 Opponents 18 412 22.9 35 0 Team 12 4 8 0 11/11 10/12 0 113 Opponents 10 2 8 0 9/9 3/4 0 80 Field Goals 1-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50+ Elam 0/0 6/6 3/3 1/3 0/0 2-Pt. Conversions: Dayne 0, Team 0-1, Opponents 1-1 Team 0/0 6/6 3/3 1/3 0/0 Sacks: Engelberger 4.0, Pryce 2.0, D.. Williams 2.0, Ekuban 1.0, L. Green 1.0, Opponents 0/0 3/3 0/0 0/0 0/1 Palepoi 1.0, Sykes 1.0, Veal 1.0 Team 14.0, Opponents 9.0 Elam: (27G,24G)(31G,45N,48N,22G)(31G,28G,38G) (43G,24G,22G) Team: (27G,24G)(31G,45N,48N,22G)(31G,28G,38G) (43G,24G,22G)

Opponents: ()(55N)(28G)(26G,28G)

Passing Att Cmp Yds Cmp% Yds/Att TD TD% Int Int% Long Sack/Lost Rating Van Pelt 67 36 385 53.7 5.75 4 6.0 0 0.0 32 7/54 90.7 Plummer 35 23 321 65.7 9.17 3 8.6 0 0.0 40t 2/9 123.6 Mauck 17 8 170 47.1 10.00 1 5.9 1 5.9 92t 0/0 78.1 Team 119 67 876 56.3 7.36 8 6.7 1 0.8 92t 9/63 98.6 Opponents 137 82 907 59.9 6.62 8 5.8 1 0.7 58t 14/76 96.0

DENVER BRONCOS 2005 FINAL PRESEASON DEFENSIVE STATISTICS (4-0) (based on press box statistics) PLAYER TT UT A S Yds. I Yds. PD FF FR 1 Foxworth151230.00.000200 Paymah151320.00.000400 3 Williams, Da. 14 12 2 1.0 8.0 00300 4 Brandon 11 9 2 0.0 0.0 1 13 2 0 0 Engelberger111014.026.000000 6 Gold10730.00.000000 LeSueur10910.00.000100 8 Davis 9 6 3 0.0 0.0 00300 Pierce 9 8 1 0.0 0.0 00000 Walls 9 9 0 0.0 0.0 00310 Williams, D.J. 9 7 2 1.0 2.0 00000 12 Burns 8530.00.000000 Green 8 8 0 1.0 6.0 00010 M. Myers 8 8 0 0.0 0.0 00000 15 Sykes 7 5 2 1.0 5.0 00000 Wilson 7 5 2 0.0 0.0 00000 17 Chukwurah 6 6 0 0.0 0.0 00210 Pryce 6 6 0 2.0 20.0 00100 19 Ferguson5320.00.000100 Lynch5500.00.000000 21 Alexander, R. 4 4 0 0.0 0.0 00000 Palepoi4311.05.000110 Pope 4 3 1 0.0 0.0 00100 24 Anderson, Ma.3210.00.000100 Coleman3120.00.000000 Ekuban3301.04.000000 Steele 3 3 0 0.0 0.0 00000 Veal 3301.00.000000 29 Elliss 2 0 2 0.0 0.0 00000 30 Babers1100.00.000000 Cox 1100.00.000000 Warren 1 1 0 0.0 0.0 00000 TEAM 1 0 1 1.0 0.0 00000 34 Browner 0 0 0 0.0 0.0 00100 TOTALS 215 178 37 14.0 76.0 1 13 26 4 0 SPECIAL TEAMS STATISTICS PLAYER TT UT A FF FR BK BP TD 1 LeSueur44001000 Pierce 43100000 3 Devoe32110000 Paymah 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 5 Adams21100000 Alexander, R. 22001000 Brandon 22000000 Burns 22000000 Chukwurah 22000000 Green 22000000 11 Bell 11000000 Ferguson11000000 Foxworth11000000 Leach 11000000 Luke 11000000 Miree 11000000 Sapp 10100000 TOTALS 33 28 512000

MISC. TACKLES: Plummer 1. DEFENSIVE TOUCHDOWNS: None. MISC. FUMBLE RECOVERIES: Adams 1, Devoe 1, Van Pelt 1. TWO-POINT CONVERSION STOPS: None. MISC. FORCED FUMBLES: None. BLOCKED PUNTS: None. BLOCKED KICKS: None. DETROIT LIONS 2005 FINAL REGULAR-SEASON TEAM STATISTICS (5-11)

Date W-L Score OT Opponent Attendance Rushing No. Yds Avg Long TD 09/11 W 17-3 Green Bay 61,877 Jones 186 664 3.6 40 5 09/18 L 6-38 at Chicago 62,019 Pinner 106 349 3.3 19 3 10/02 L 13-17 at Tampa Bay 64,994 Bryson 64 306 4.8 77t 1 10/09 W 35-17 Baltimore 61,201 Harrington 24 80 3.3 15 0 10/16 L 20-21 Carolina 61,083 Garcia 17 51 3.0 14 1 10/23 W 13-10 at Cleveland 72,923 P. Smith 4 16 4.0 6 0 10/30 L 13-19 OT Chicago 61,814 Vines 1 7 7.0 7 0 11/06 L 14-27 at Minnesota 63,813 Schlesinger 1 1 1.0 1 0 11/13 W 29-21 Arizona 61,091 Drummond 1 -3 -3.0 -3 0 11/20 L 7-20 at Dallas 62,670 Team 404 1471 3.6 77t 10 11/24 L 7-27 Atlanta 62,390 Opponents 488 2040 4.2 64t 15 12/04 L 16-21 Minnesota 61,375

12/11 L 13-16 OT at Green Bay 70,019 Receiving No. Yds Avg Long TD 12/18 L 17-41 Cincinnati 61,749 Pollard 46 516 11.2 86 3 12/24 W 13-12 at New Orleans 63,747 R. Williams 45 687 15.3 51t 8 01/01 L 21-35 at Pittsburgh 63,794 Vines 40 417 10.4 40 0 Bryson 37 284 7.7 63 0 Detroit Opponent M. Williams 29 350 12.1 49 1 Total First Downs 258 308 Pinner 21 181 8.6 24 0 Rushing 69 109 Jones 20 109 5.5 28 0 Passing 151 166 K. Johnson 17 133 7.8 25 0 Penalty 38 33 C. Rogers 14 197 14.1 35t 1 3rd Down: Made/Att 87/224 82/208 Fitzsimmons 10 45 4.5 11 1 3rd Down Pct. 38.8 39.4 Schlesinger 8 31 3.9 8 1 4th Down: Made/Att 7/17 6/11 4th Down Pct. 41.2 54.5 P. Smith 6 49 8.2 11 0 Possession Avg. 29:13 30:47 T. Edwards 2 15 7.5 8 0 Total Net Yards 4319 5158 Martinez 1 11 11.0 11 0 Avg. Per Game 269.9 322.4 Harrington 1 -4 -4.0 -4 0 Total Plays 955 1006 Team 297 3021 10.2 86 15 Avg. Per Play 4.5 5.1 Opponents 295 3305 11.2 80t 19

Net Yards Rushing 1471 2040 Avg. Per Game 91.9 127.5 Interceptions No. Yds Avg Long TD Total Rushes 404 488 Bly 6 54 9.0 28 0 Net Yards Passing 2848 3118 Goodman 3 17 5.7 21 0 Avg. Per Game 178.0 194.9 Kennedy 2 64 32.0 64t 1 Sacked/Yards Lost 31/173 31/187 Holt 2 51 25.5 51 0 Gross Yards 3021 3305 McQuarters 2 25 12.5 19 0 Att./Completions 520/297 487/295 Completion Pct. 57.1 60.6 Bailey 1 34 34.0 34t 1 Had Intercepted 18 19 Bra. Walker 1 22 22.0 22 0 Punts/Average 84/43.5 72/40.3 Lehman 1 21 21.0 17 0 Net Punting Avg. 84/36.9 72/34.5 Wayne 1 20 20.0 20 0 Penalties/Yards 115/838 130/953 Team 19 308 16.2 64t 2 Fumbles/Ball Lost 21/12 24/12 Opponents 18 271 15.1 41t 2

Touchdowns 28 39 Rushing 10 15 Punting No. Yds Avg Net TB In Lg B Passing 15 19 Harris 84 3656 43.5 36.9 2 34 60 0 Returns 3 5 Team 84 3656 43.5 36.9 2 34 60 0 Opponents 72 2899 40.3 34.5 7 20 61 0

Score By Periods Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 OT PTS Team 69 72 43 70 0 254 Punt Returns Ret FC Yds Avg Long TD Opponents 84 136 66 50 9 345 Drummond 26 11 157 6.0 38 0

McQuarters 10 2 117 11.7 49 0 Scoring TD Rush Rec Ret K-PAT FG S PTS Team 36 13 274 7.6 49 0 Opponents 50 17 520 10.4 81t 2 Hanson 0 0 0 0 27/27 19/24 0 84 R. Williams 8 0 8 0 0 48 Jones 5 5 0 0 0 30 Kickoff Returns No. Yds Avg Long TD Pinner 3 3 0 0 0 18 Drummond 49 1077 22.0 48 0 Pollard 3 0 3 0 0 18 McQuarters 16 381 23.8 73 0 Bailey 1 0 0 1 0 6 Bryson 4 55 13.8 25 0 Bryson 1 1 0 0 0 6 Martinez 2 42 21.0 24 0 Fitzsimmons 1 0 1 0 0 6 DeVries 1 7 7.0 7 0 Garcia 1 1 0 0 0 6 K. Johnson 1 14 14.0 14 0 Kennedy 1 0 0 1 0 6 C. Rogers 1 0 1 0 0 6 Team 73 1576 21.6 73 0 Opponents 55 1239 22.5 90t 1 S. Rogers 1 0 0 1 0 6 Schlesinger 1 0 1 0 0 6 M. Williams 1 0 1 0 0 6 Field Goals 1-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50+ Wilkinson 0 0 0 0 1 2 Hanson 1/1 9/9 3/3 4/7 2/4 Hamilton 0 0 0 0 0/1 0/0 0 0 Team 1/1 9/9 3/3 4/7 2/4 Team 28 10 15 3 27/28 19/24 1 254 Opponents 1/1 8/8 7/9 5/7 3/5 Opponents 39 15 19 5 37/37 24/30 0 345

2-Pt. Conversions: Team 0-0, Opponents 1-1 Hanson: (21G)()(44G,23G)()(47B,52G,25G)(47N, 47G,50G)(46N,32G,30G)(51N) Sacks: K. Edwards 7, S. Rogers 5.5, Hall 5, DeVries 3, Wilkinson 3, (group) 2, Cody (26G,20G)(50N)() (45G,26G,28G)(19G,23G)(45G)(21G,39G)() 1.5, Bailey 1, Redding 1, K. Smith 1, Woods 1, Team 31, Opponents 31 Opponents: (50G)(48G,48N,36N)(43G,46N)(46G) (52B)(30G)(38G,20G)(21G,52N,40G)(51G,28G)(19G,56G)(21G,23G)()(36G,38B,39 G,28G)(28G,33G)(35G, 47G,33G,20G)()

Passing Att Cmp Yds Cmp% Yds/Att TD TD% Int Int% Long Sack/Lost Rating

Harrington 330 188 2021 57.0 6.12 12 3.6 12 3.6 86 24/136 72.0 Garcia 173 102 937 59.0 5.42 3 1.7 6 3.5 49 6/34 65.1 Orlovsky 17 7 63 41.2 3.71 0 0.0 0 0.0 20 1/3 51.8 Team 520 297 3021 57.1 5.81 15 2.9 18 3.5 86 31/173 69.1

Opponents 487 295 3305 60.6 6.79 19 3.9 19 3.9 80t 31/187 77.6

DETROIT LIONS 2005 FINAL PRESEASON TEAM STATISTICS (1-3) Date W-L Score OT Opponent Attendance Rushing No. Yds Avg Long TD 08/12 L 3-10 at New York Jets 77,865 Pinner 36 111 3.1 22 1 08/20 L 13-21 Cleveland 58,371 Jones 18 77 4.3 21 0 08/29 L 13-37 St. Louis 58,625 Garcia 6 65 10.8 23 0 09/02 W 21-7 at Buffalo 53,713 White 17 57 3.4 9 0 Bryson 7 27 3.9 9t 1 Jackson 13 17 1.3 7 0 Harrington 5 13 2.6 6 0 Detroit Opponent Orlovsky 3 1 0.3 1 0 Total First Downs 69 81 P. Smith 1 0 0.0 0 0 Rushing 19 23 Mortensen 1 -1 -1.0 -1 0 Passing 42 44 Team 107 367 3.4 23 2 Opponents 114 471 4.1 64 4 Penalty 8 14

3rd Down: Made/Att 23/53 13/42 3rd Down Pct. 43.4 31.0 Receiving No. Yds Avg Long TD 4th Down: Made/Att 1/3 2/3 R. Williams 10 118 11.8 21 0 M. Williams 8 130 16.3 28 0 4th Down Pct. 33.3 66.7 Fitzsimmons 7 64 9.1 13 0 Possession Avg. 30:12 29:48 Pinner 6 63 10.5 20 0 Total Net Yards 1144 1279 Pollard 6 61 10.2 25 0 Avg. Per Game 286.0 319.8 C. Rogers 5 81 16.2 29t 1 Total Plays 246 241 K. Johnson 5 53 10.6 25 0 Avg. Per Play 4.7 5.3 Jackson 5 39 7.8 12 0 Net Yards Rushing 367 471 Vines 4 44 11.0 16 0 Avg. Per Game 91.8 117.8 Martinez 3 51 17.0 25 0 Savoy 3 28 9.3 20 0 Total Rushes 107 114 Jones 3 9 3.0 9 0 Net Yards Passing 777 808 Kircus 2 24 12.0 12 0 Avg. Per Game 194.3 202.0 Bryson 2 15 7.5 8 0 Sacked/Yards Lost 9/49 10/67 Randall 2 14 7.0 8 1 Gross Yards 826 875 Swift 1 16 16.0 16 0 Att./Completions 130/74 117/78 Hamilton 1 10 10.0 10 0 Completion Pct. 56.9 66.7 Matthews 1 3 3.0 3 0 Had Intercepted 5 6 Hopson 0 3 --- 3 0 Team 74 826 11.2 29t 2 Punts/Average 18/40.8 13/46.0 Opponents 78 875 11.2 51t 4 Net Punting Avg. 18/31.9 13/35.3 Penalties/Yards 48/413 44/390 Interceptions No. Yds Avg Long TD Fumbles/Ball Lost 6/3 7/3 Bra. Walker 1 37 37.0 37 0 Touchdowns 5 9 Bly 1 24 24.0 24 0 Rushing 2 4 K. Kennedy 1 2 2.0 2 0 Passing 2 4 Wilson 1 1 1.0 1 0 Returns 1 1 Davis 1 0 0.0 0 0 K. Smith 1 0 0.0 0 0 Holt 0 11 --- 11t 1 Team 6 75 12.5 37 1 Opponents 5 41 8.2 27 0 Score By Periods Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 OT PTS Team 10 23 7 10 0 50 Punting No. Yds Avg Net TB In Lg B Opponents 21 14 20 20 0 75 Harris 10 430 43.0 40.6 0 6 53 0 Anderson 8 305 38.1 21.1 2 2 49 0 Team 18 735 40.8 31.9 2 8 53 0 Opponents 13 598 46.0 35.3 5 3 57 0 Scoring TD Rush Rec Ret K-PAT FG S PTS Hanson 0 0 0 0 4/4 5/5 0 19 Punt Returns Ret FC Yds Avg Long TD Bryson 1 1 0 0 0 6 Drummond 1 0 8 8.0 8 0 Jackson 1 1 20 20.0 20 0 Holt 1 0 0 1 0 6 Martinez 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 Pinner 1 1 0 0 0 6 McQuarters 1 0 11 11.0 11 0 Randall 1 0 1 0 0 6 Team 4 1 39 9.8 20 0 C. Rogers 1 0 1 0 0 6 Opponents 10 2 120 12.0 44 0 Killeen 0 0 0 0 1/1 0/0 0 1 Team 5 2 2 1 5/5 5/5 0 50 Kickoff Returns No. Yds Avg Long TD Opponents 9 4 4 1 9/9 4/7 0 75 Jackson 4 90 22.5 27 0 K. Johnson 3 82 27.3 31 0 2-Pt. Conversions: Team 0-0, Opponents 0-0 Kircus 3 54 18.0 22 0 Vines 2 38 19.0 22 0 Sacks: Redding 2.5, DeVries 1.5, Bell 1.0, Edwards 1.0, Lewis 1.0, McQuarters 1.0, Martinez 1 19 19.0 19 0 Powell 1.0, Rainer 1.0, Team 10.0, Opponents 9.0 Team 13 283 21.8 31 0 Opponents 13 319 24.5 37 0

Field Goals 1-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50+ Hanson 0/0 3/3 1/1 0/0 1/1 Team 0/0 3/3 1/1 0/0 1/1 Opponents 0/0 1/1 2/3 1/1 0/2

Hanson: (22G)(22G,27G)(54G,32G)() Team: (22G)(22G,27G)(54G,32G)() Opponents: (40G)(55N,52N)(35G,31G,29G)(32N)

Passing Att Cmp Yds Cmp% Yds/Att TD TD% Int Int% Long Sack/Lost Rating

Orlovsky 54 29 356 53.7 6.59 1 1.9 2 3.7 28 3/21 65.0

Garcia 43 22 218 51.2 5.07 1 2.3 3 7.0 29t 1/0 44.5 Harrington 33 23 252 69.7 7.64 0 0.0 0 0.0 25 5/28 92.0 Team 130 74 826 56.9 6.35 2 1.5 5 3.8 29t 9/49 65.1 Opponents 117 78 875 66.7 7.48 4 3.4 6 5.1 51t 10/67 78.8

DENVER BRONCOS 2006 DEPTH CHART (as of Monday, Aug. 7, 2006)

Broncos Offense WR 80 Rod Smith 17 87 David Kircus 19 Brian Clark 81 Charlie Adams LT 78 Matt Lepsis 74 Cornell Green 77 Dwayne Carswell 70 Javiar Collins LG 50 Ben Hamilton 59 Taylor Whitley 63 Rob Hunt C 66 Tom Nalen 62 Chris Myers 67 Greg Eslinger RG 65 Cooper Carlisle 73 Chris Kuper 68 RT 72 George Foster 75 Adam Meadows 69 P.J. Alexander 64 Erik Pears TE 82 Stephen Alexander 88 Tony Scheffler 89 Nate Jackson 46 Chad Mustard 83 Mike Leach WR 84 Javon Walker 15 Brandon Marshall 13 David Terrell 14 Todd Devoe QB 16 Jake Plummer 6 Jay Cutler 11 Bradlee Van Pelt 5 Preston Parsons RB 20 Mike Bell 26 Tatum Bell 33 Ron Dayne 34 Cedric Cobbs 29 Damien Nash FB 37 Cecil Sapp 39 Kyle Johnson 31 Brandon Miree 43 Rashon Powers-Neal

Broncos Defense LE 98 Courtney Brown 76 Kenard Lang 54 Patrick Chukwurah 90 Corey Jackson LT 96 Michael Myers 93 Antwon Burton 94 Amon Gordon 71 Patrice Majondo-Mwamba RT 61 Gerard Warren 97 Demetrin Veal 92 Elvis Dumervil 79 Bryan Save RE 91 Ebenezer Ekuban 60 John Engelberger 95 Khaleed Vaughn WLB 52 Ian Gold 53 Louis Green 49 Kevin Harrison MLB 56 Al Wilson 58 Nate Webster 51 Keith Burns SLB 55 D.J. Williams 50 Cameron Vaughn 59 Ray Wells LCB 24 Champ Bailey 22 Domonique Foxworth 41 Karl Paymah 23 Willie Middlebrooks RCB 27 Darrent Williams 45 Roc Alexander 28 Jeff Shoate 35 Antwaun Rogers SS 25 Nick Ferguson 40 Curome Cox 21 Hamza Abdullah FS 47 John Lynch 42 Sam Brandon 32 Tyler Everett

Broncos Specialists P 10 Todd Sauerbrun 4 Micah Knorr 3 Paul Ernster K 1 Jason Elam KO 3 Paul Ernster 4 Micah Knorr 10 Todd Sauerbrun PR 27 Darrent Williams 20 Mike Bell 87 David Kircus 15 Brandon Marshall 81 Charlie Adams KR 20 Mike Bell 87 David Kircus 19 Brian Clark 81 Charlie Adams 34 Cedric Cobbs 37 Cecil Sapp PC 83 Mike Leach 88 Tony Scheffler 73 Chris Kuper KC 83 Mike Leach 62 Chris Myers 88 Tony Scheffler H 16 Jake Plummer 6 Jay Cutler 4 Micah Knorr

Rookie and First-Year players underlined [injured players]

BRONCOS PRONUNCIATION GUIDE Hamza Abdullah (AHM-zah) Chris Kuper (KOO-pehr) Martin Bibla (BIHb-lah) Kenard Lang (kehn-ARD) Antwon Burton (ANN-TWAHN) Patrice Majondo-Mwamba (ma-WAHM-ba) Patrick Chukwurah (chuk-WER-uh) Brandon Miree (my-REE) Javiar Collins (HAH-vee-ayr) Erik Pears (PEERS) Curome Cox (ker-OME) Antwaun Rogers (ANN-TWAHN) Todd Devoe (deh-VOH) Brian Save (sah-VAY) Elvis Dumervil (doo-mehr-vill) Jeff Shoate (SHOTE) Ebenezer Ekuban (EK-you-BON) David Terrell (teh-REHL) Jason Elam (EE-lum) Khaleed Vaughn (kah-LEED) Amon Gordon (ah-MAHN) Demetrin Veal (deh-ME-trin) Domenik Hixon (DAH-mehn-ik) Darrent Williams (DARE-ent) David Kircus (KIHR-kus)

Denver Broncos 2006 Alphabetical Roster (updated 8/7/06)

NFL High School 2005 No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Birthdate Exp. College Hometown How Acq. P-S-DNP-INA 21 Abdullah, Hamza S 6-2 216 8/20/83 2 Washington State Pomona, Calif. PS(TB)- ‘05 1-0-0-7 81 Adams, Charlie WR 6-2 190 10/23/79 4 Hofstra Mechanicsburg, Pa. FA- ‘04 16-2-0-0 69 Alexander, P.J. G 6-4 297 12/23/78 4 Syracuse Tallahassee, Fla. FA- ‘03 0-0-0-0 45 Alexander, Roc CB 5-10 190 9/23/81 3 Washington Colorado Springs, Colo. CFA- ‘04 10-0-0-6 82 Alexander, Stephen TE 6-4 250 11/7/75 9 Oklahoma Chickasha, Okla. UFA(Det)- ‘05 16-15-0-0 24 Bailey, Champ CB 6-0 192 6/22/78 8 Georgia Folkston, Ga. T(Was)- ’04 14-14-0-2 20 Bell, Mike RB 6-0 220 4/23/83 R Arizona Tolleson, Ariz. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 26 Bell, Tatum RB 5-11 213 3/2/81 3 Oklahoma State Dallas, Texas D2a- ‘04 15-1-0-1 68 Bibla, Martin G 6-3 303 10/4/79 4 Miami Mountaintop, Penn. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 42 Brandon, Sam S 6-2 200 7/5/79 5 UNLV Riverside, Calif. D4- ‘02 14-0-0-2 98 Brown, Courtney DE 6-4 285 2/14/78 7 Penn State Alvin, S.C. FA- ‘05 14-13-0-2 51 Burns, Keith LB 6-2 235 5/16/72 13 Oklahoma State Alexandria, Va. UFA(TB)- ‘05 15-1-0-1 93 Burton, Antwon DT 6-2 318 7/11/83 R Temple Cheektowaga, N.Y. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 65 Carlisle, Cooper G/T 6-5 295 8/11/77 7 Florida McComb, Miss. D4b- ‘00 16-16-0-0 77 Carswell, Dwayne G 6-3 290 1/18/72 13 Liberty Jacksonville, Fla. CFA- ‘94 7-0-0-1 54 Chukwurah, Patrick LB 6-1 250 3/1/79 6 Wyoming Irving, Texas FA- ‘04 14-0-0-2 19 Clark, Brian WR 6-2 204 12/26/83 R North Carolina State Tampa, Fla. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 34 Cobbs, Cedric RB 6-0 227 1/9/81 2 Arkansas Little Rock, Ark. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 70 Collins, Javiar T 6-6 297 4/13/78 5 Northwestern Mendota Heights, Minn. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 40 Cox, Curome S 6-1 204 2/28/81 2 Maryland Washington, D.C. FA- ‘04 13-1-0-0 6 Cutler, Jay QB 6-3 233 4/29/83 R Vanderbilt Lincoln City, Ind. D1- ’06 0-0-0-0 33 Dayne, Ron RB 5-10 245 3/14/78 7 Wisconsin Berlin, N.J. UFA(NYG)- ‘05 10-0-3-3 14 Devoe, Todd WR 6-2 198 4/5/80 2 Central Missouri State Fort Lauderdale, Fla. FA- ‘05 14-0-0-2 92 Dumervil, Elvis DE 5-11 250 1/19/84 R Louisville Miami, Fla. D4b- ’06 0-0-0-0 91 Ekuban, Ebenezer DE 6-4 275 5/29/76 8 North Carolina Bowie, Md. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-4-0-0 1 Elam, Jason K 5-11 200 3/8/70 14 Hawaii Ft. Walton Beach, Fla. D3b- ‘93 16-0-0-0 60 Engelberger, John DE 6-4 252 10/18/76 7 Virginia Tech Springfield, Va. T(SF)- ‘05 14-0-0-2 3 Ernster, Paul P/K 6-0 217 1/26/82 2 Northern Arizona Glendale, Ariz. D7- ‘05 1-0-0-1 67 Eslinger, Greg C 6-3 290 4/23/83 R Minnesota Bismarck, North Dakota D6- ’06 0-0-0-0 32 Everett, Tyler S 5-11 202 11/4/83 R Ohio State Canton, Ohio CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 25 Ferguson, Nick S 5-11 201 11/27/74 7 Georgia Tech Miami, Fla. FA- ‘03 16-16-0-0 72 Foster, George T 6-5 338 6/9/80 4 Georgia Macon, Ga. D1- ‘03 16-16-0-0 22 Foxworth, Domonique CB 5-11 180 3/27/83 2 Maryland Catonsville, Md. D3b- ‘05 16-7-0-0 52 Gold, Ian LB 6-0 223 8/23/78 7 Michigan Belleville, Mich. FA- ‘05 16-16-0-0 94 Gordon, Amon DL 6-2 319 10/13/81 3 Stanford San Diego, Calif. W- ’06 0-0-0-0 74 Green, Cornell T 6-6 315 8/25/76 7 Central Florida St. Petersburg, Fla. UFA(TB)- ‘04 14-0-0-2 53 Green, Louis LB 6-3 228 9/23/79 3 Alcorn State Vicksburg, Miss. FA- ‘03 14-0-0-2 50 Hamilton, Ben G/C 6-4 283 8/18/77 6 Minnesota Minneapolis, Minn. D4a- ‘01 16-16-0-0 49 Harrison, Kevin LB 6-0 256 12/24/81 1 Eastern Michigan Belleville, Mich. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 12 Hixon, Domenik WR 6-2 185 10/8/84 R Akron Columbus, Ohio D4c- ’06 0-0-0-0 57 Hollowell, T.J. LB 6-0 235 4/8/81 3 Nebraska Copperas Cove, Texas FA- ’06 2-0-0-1^ 63 Hunt, Rob* G/C 6-3 283 3/3/81 1 North Dakota State Cavalier, N.D. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 90 Jackson, Corey DE 6-6 270 11/6/78 2 Nevada Kershaw, S.C. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 89 Jackson, Nate TE 6-3 235 6/4/79 4 Menlo San Jose, Calif. T(SF)- ‘03 2-0-0-14 39 Johnson, Kyle FB 6-0 242 12/15/78 4 Syracuse Woodbridge, N.J. FA- ‘03 16-14-0-0 87 Kircus, David WR 6-2 192 2/19/80 3 Grand Valley State Imlay City, Mich. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 4 Knorr, Micah P 6-2 208 1/9/75 6 Utah State Orange, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 73 Kuper, Chris G 6-4 302 12/19/82 R North Dakota Anchorage, Alaska D5- ’06 0-0-0-0 76 Lang, Kenard DE 6-3 264 1/31/75 10 Miami Orlando, Fla. FA- ’06 16-5-0-0^ 83 Leach, Mike TE/LS 6-2 245 10/18/76 7 William & Mary Jefferson Township, N.J. FA- ‘02 16-0-0-0 85 Lelie, Ashley WR 6-3 200 2/16/80 5 Hawaii Honolulu, Hawaii D1- ‘02 16-13-0-0 78 Lepsis, Matt T 6-4 290 1/13/74 10 Colorado Conroe, Texas CFA- ‘97 16-16-0-0 47 Lynch, John S 6-2 220 9/25/71 14 Stanford Del Mar, Calif. FA- ‘04 16-16-0-0 71 Majondo-Mwamba, Patrice* DL 6-4 301 7/29/79 1 Texas Tech Republic of Congo CFA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 15 Marshall, Brandon WR 6-4 222 3/23/84 R UCF Lake Howell, Fla. D4a- ’06 0-0-0-0 75 Meadows, Adam T 6-5 290 1/25/74 8 Georgia Powder Springs, Ga. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 23 Middlebrooks, Willie CB 6-1 200 2/12/79 6 Minnesota Homestead, Fla. FA- ‘06 5-0-0-2 31 Miree, Brandon RB 5-11 237 4/14/81 2 Pittsburgh Cincinnati, Ohio D7b- ‘04 0-0-0-0 46 Mustard, Chad TE 6-6 277 10/8/77 3 North Dakota Columbus, Neb. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 62 Myers, Chris C/G 6-4 300 9/15/81 2 Miami Miami, Fla. D6- ‘05 9-0-0-3 96 Myers, Michael DT 6-2 300 1/20/76 9 Alabama Vicksburg, Miss. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-15-0-0 66 Nalen, Tom C 6-3 286 5/13/71 13 Boston College Foxboro, Mass. D7c- ‘94 16-16-0-0 29 Nash, Damien RB 5-10 220 4/14/82 2 Missouri East St. Louis, Ill. FA- ’06 3-0-1-12^ 5 Parsons, Preston QB 6-4 235 2/19/79 3 Northern Arizona Portland, Ore. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 41 Paymah, Karl CB 6-0 200 11/29/82 2 Washington State Culver City, Calif. D3a- ‘05 13-0-0-3 64 Pears, Erik* T 6-8 305 6/25/82 1 Colorado State Denver, Colo. CFA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 16 Plummer, Jake QB 6-2 212 12/19/74 10 Arizona State Boise, Idaho UFA(Ari)- ‘03 16-16-0-0 43 Powers-Neal, Rashon FB 6-3 247 4/3/83 R Notre Dame St. Paul, Minn. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 35 Rogers, Antwaun* CB 6-2 170 8/29/82 1 Purdue Middletown, Ohio CFA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 37 Sapp, Cecil RB 5-11 229 12/23/78 4 Colorado State Miami, Fla. CFA- ‘03 16-0-0-0 10 Sauerbrun, Todd P 5-10 215 1/4/73 12 West Virginia East Setauket, N.Y. T(Car)- ‘05 16-0-0-0 79 Save, Bryan DT 6-1 299 12/16/81 1 Colorado State Santa Ana, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 88 Scheffler, Tony TE 6-5 250 2/15/83 R Western Michigan Morenci, Mich. D2- ’06 0-0-0-0 28 Shoate, Jeff CB 5-10 180 3/23/81 3 San Diego State San Diego, Calif. D5- ‘04 0-0-0-0 80 Smith, Rod WR 6-0 200 5/15/70 12 Missouri Southern Texarkana, Ark. CFA- ‘94 16-16-0-0 13 Terrell, David WR 6-3 213 3/13/79 6 Michigan Richmond, Va. FA- ‘05 1-0-0-14 11 Van Pelt, Bradlee QB 6-2 220 7/3/80 2 Colorado State Santa Barbara, Calif. D7c- ‘04 3-0-13-0 50 Vaughn, Cameron LB 6-4 241 2/27/84 R Louisiana State Marrero, La. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 95 Vaughn, Khaleed DE 6-4 278 5/20/81 2 Clemson North Atlanta, Ga. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 97 Veal, Demetrin DT 6-2 288 8/11/81 4 Tennessee Paramount, Calif. FA- ‘04 15-0-0-1 84 Walker, Javon WR 6-3 209 10/14/78 5 Florida State Lafayette, La. T(GB)- ’06 1-1-0-1 61 Warren, Gerard DT 6-4 325 7/25/78 6 Florida Raiford, Fla. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-16-0-0 17 Watts, Darius WR 6-2 190 12/19/81 3 Marshall Atlanta, Ga. D2b- ‘04 6-0-0-10 58 Webster, Nate LB 6-0 237 11/29/77 7 Miami Miami, Fla. UFA(Cin)- ’06 1-0-0-4^ 59 Wells, Ray LB 6-1 236 8/20/80 3 Arizona Spring Valley, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 59 Whitley, Taylor G 6-4 305 2/21/80 4 Texas A&M Sudan, Texas FA- ’05 2-0-0-7 55 Williams, D.J. LB 6-1 242 7/20/82 3 Miami Concord, Calif. D1- ‘04 16-14-0-0 27 Williams, Darrent CB 5-8 188 9/27/82 2 Oklahoma State Fort Worth, Texas D2- ‘05 12-9-0-4 56 Wilson, Al LB 6-0 240 6/21/77 8 Tennessee Jackson, Tenn. D1- ‘99 15-15-0-1

RESERVE/INJURED LIST 86 Trusty, Landon TE 6-7 266 10/9/81 2 Central Arkansas Hot Springs, Ark. FA- ’06 0-0-0-4^

^ - Hollowell was with NY Jets in ’05; Lang was with Cleveland in ‘05; Nash was with Tennessee in ’05; Trusty was with San Diego in ’05; Webster was with Cincinnati in ’05.

Head Coach: Mike Shanahan (12th year). Assistant Coaches: Mike Heimerdinger (Asst. Head Coach), Rick Dennison (Offensive Coordinator), Larry Coyer (Defensive Coordinator), Jeremy Bates (Offensive Asst.), Chip Beake (Quality Control), Ronnie Bradford (Special Teams), Tim Brewster (Tight Ends), Jacob Burney (Defensive Line/Ends), Kirk Doll (Linebackers), Thomas McGaughey (Special Teams Asst.), Pat McPherson (Quarterbacks), Andre Patterson (Defensive Line/Tackles), Jim Ryan (Defensive Asst.), Greg Saporta (Asst. Strength & Conditioning), Bob Slowik (Defensive Backs), Ryan Slowik (Defensive Asst.), Cedric Smith (Asst. Strength & Conditioning), Jimmy Spencer (Asst. Defensive Backs), Bobby Turner (Running Backs), Rich Tuten (Strength & Conditioning), Steve Watson (Wide Receivers). KEY: CFA-college free agent; D-drafted; FA-acquired as free agent; RFA-acquired as restricted free agent; UFA-acquired as unrestricted free agent; T-trade; W-waivers; *-allocated to NFL Europe. Denver Broncos 2006 Numerical Roster (updated 8/7/06) NFL High School 2005 No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Age Exp. College Hometown How Acq. P-S-DNP-INA 1 Jason Elam K 5-11 200 36 14 Hawaii Ft. Walton Beach, Fla. D3b- ‘93 16-0-0-0 3 Paul Ernster P/K 6-0 217 24 2 Northern Arizona Glendale, Ariz. D7- ‘05 1-0-0-1 4 Micah Knorr P 6-2 208 31 6 Utah State Orange, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 5 Preston Parsons QB 6-4 235 27 3 Northern Arizona Portland, Ore. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 6 Jay Cutler QB 6-3 233 23 R Vanderbilt Lincoln City, Ind. D1- ’06 0-0-0-0 10 Todd Sauerbrun P 5-10 215 33 12 West Virginia East Setauket, N.Y. T(Car)- ‘05 16-0-0-0 11 Bradlee Van Pelt QB 6-2 220 26 2 Colorado State Santa Barbara, Calif. D7c- ‘04 3-0-13-0 12 Domenik Hixon WR 6-2 185 21 R Akron Columbus, Ohio D4c- ’06 0-0-0-0 13 David Terrell WR 6-3 213 27 6 Michigan Richmond, Va. FA- ‘05 1-0-0-14 14 Todd Devoe WR 6-2 198 26 2 Central Missouri State Fort Lauderdale, Fla. FA- ‘05 14-0-0-2 15 Brandon Marshall WR 6-4 222 22 R UCF Lake Howell, Fla. D4a- ’06 0-0-0-0 16 Jake Plummer QB 6-2 212 31 10 Arizona State Boise, Idaho UFA(Ari)- ‘03 16-16-0-0 17 Darius Watts WR 6-2 190 24 3 Marshall Atlanta, Ga. D2b- ‘04 6-0-0-10 19 Brian Clark WR 6-2 204 22 R North Carolina State Tampa, Fla. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 20 Mike Bell RB 6-0 220 23 R Arizona Tolleson, Ariz. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 21 Hamza Abdullah S 6-2 213 22 2 Washington State Pomona, Calif. PS(TB)- ‘05 1-0-0-7 22 Domonique Foxworth CB 5-11 180 23 2 Maryland Catonsville, Md. D3b- ‘05 16-7-0-0 23 Willie Middlebrooks CB 6-1 200 27 6 Minnesota Homestead, Fla. FA- ’06 5-0-0-2 24 Champ Bailey CB 6-0 192 28 8 Georgia Folkston, Ga. T(Was)- ’04 14-14-0-2 25 Nick Ferguson S 5-11 201 31 7 Georgia Tech Miami, Fla. FA- ‘03 16-16-0-0 26 Tatum Bell RB 5-11 213 25 3 Oklahoma State Dallas, Texas D2a- ‘04 15-1-0-1 27 Darrent Williams CB 5-8 188 23 2 Oklahoma State Fort Worth, Texas D2- ‘05 12-9-0-4 28 Jeff Shoate CB 5-10 180 25 3 San Diego State San Diego, Calif. D5- ‘04 0-0-0-0 29 Damien Nash RB 5-10 220 24 2 Missouri East St. Louis, Ill. FA- ’06 3-0-1-12^ 31 Brandon Miree RB 5-11 237 25 2 Pittsburgh Cincinnati, Ohio D7b- ‘04 0-0-0-0 32 Tyler Everett S 5-11 202 22 R Ohio State Canton, Ohio CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 33 Ron Dayne RB 5-10 245 28 7 Wisconsin Berlin, N.J. UFA(NYG)– ‘05 10-0-3-3 34 Cedric Cobbs RB 6-0 227 25 2 Arkansas Little Rock, Ark. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 35 Antwaun Rogers* CB 6-2 170 23 1 Purdue Middletown, Ohio CFA- ’05 0-0-0-0 37 Cecil Sapp RB 5-11 229 27 4 Colorado State Miami, Fla. CFA- ‘03 16-0-0-0 39 Kyle Johnson FB 6-0 242 27 4 Syracuse Woodbridge, N.J. FA- ‘03 16-14-0-0 40 Curome Cox S 6-1 204 25 2 Maryland Washington, D.C. FA- ‘04 13-1-0-0 41 Karl Paymah CB 6-0 200 23 2 Washington State Culver City, Calif. D3a- ‘05 13-0-0-3 42 Sam Brandon S 6-2 200 27 5 UNLV Riverside, Calif. D4- ‘02 14-0-0-2 43 Rashon Powers-Neal FB 6-3 247 23 R Notre Dame St. Paul, Minn. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 45 Roc Alexander CB 5-10 190 24 3 Washington Colorado Springs, Colo. CFA- ‘04 10-0-0-6 46 Chad Mustard TE 6-6 277 28 3 North Dakota Columbus, Neb. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 47 John Lynch S 6-2 220 34 14 Stanford Del Mar, Calif. FA- ‘04 16-16-0-0 49 Kevin Harrison LB 6-0 256 24 1 Eastern Michigan Belleville, Mich. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 50 Ben Hamilton G/C 6-4 283 28 6 Minnesota Minneapolis, Minn. D4a- ‘01 16-16-0-0 50 Cameron Vaughn LB 6-4 241 22 R Louisiana State Marrero, La. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 51 Keith Burns LB 6-2 235 34 13 Oklahoma State Alexandria, Va. UFA(TB)- ‘05 15-1-0-1 52 Ian Gold LB 6-0 223 27 7 Michigan Belleville, Mich. FA- ‘05 16-16-0-0 53 Louis Green LB 6-3 228 26 3 Alcorn State Vicksburg, Miss. FA- ‘03 14-0-0-2 54 Patrick Chukwurah LB 6-1 250 27 6 Wyoming Irving, Texas FA- ‘04 14-0-0-2 55 D.J. Williams LB 6-1 242 24 3 Miami Concord, Calif. D1- ‘04 16-14-0-0 56 Al Wilson LB 6-0 240 28 8 Tennessee Jackson, Tenn. D1- ‘99 15-15-0-1 57 T.J. Hollowell LB 6-0 235 25 3 Nebraska Copperas Cove, Texas FA- ’06 2-0-0-1^ 58 Nate Webster LB 6-0 237 28 7 Miami Miami, Fla. UFA(Cin)- ’06 1-0-0-4^ 59 Ray Wells LB 6-1 236 25 3 Arizona Spring Valley, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 59 Taylor Whitley G 6-4 305 26 4 Texas A&M Sudan, Texas FA- ’05 2-0-0-7 60 John Engelberger DE 6-4 252 29 7 Virginia Tech Springfield, Va. T(SF)- ‘05 14-0-0-2 61 Gerard Warren DT 6-4 325 28 6 Florida Raiford, Fla. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-16-0-0 62 Chris Myers C/G 6-4 300 24 2 Miami Miami, Fla. D6- ‘05 9-0-0-3 63 Rob Hunt* G/C 6-3 283 25 1 North Dakota State Cavalier, N.D. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 64 Erik Pears* T 6-8 305 24 1 Colorado State Denver, Colo. CFA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 65 Cooper Carlisle G/T 6-5 295 28 7 Florida McComb, Miss. D4b- ‘00 16-16-0-0 66 Tom Nalen C 6-3 286 35 13 Boston College Foxboro, Mass. D7c- ‘94 16-16-0-0 67 Greg Eslinger C 6-3 290 23 R Minnesota Bismarck, North Dakota D6- ’06 0-0-0-0 68 Martin Bibla G 6-3 303 26 4 Miami Mountaintop, Pa. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 69 P.J. Alexander G 6-4 297 27 4 Syracuse Tallahassee, Fla. FA- ‘03 0-0-0-0 70 Javiar Collins T 6-6 297 28 5 Northwestern Mendota Heights, Minn. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 71 Patrice Majondo-Mwamba* DL 6-4 301 27 1 Texas Tech Republic of Congo RFA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 72 George Foster T 6-5 338 26 4 Georgia Macon, Ga. D1- ‘03 16-16-0-0 73 Chris Kuper G 6-4 302 23 R North Dakota Anchorage, Alaska D5- ’06 0-0-0-0 74 Cornell Green T 6-6 315 29 7 Central Florida St. Petersburg, Fla. UFA(TB)- ‘04 14-0-0-2 75 Adam Meadows T 6-5 290 32 8 Georgia Powder Springs, Ga. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 76 Kenard Lang DE 6-3 264 31 10 Miami Orlando, Fla. FA- ’06 16-5-0-0^ 77 Dwayne Carswell G 6-3 290 34 13 Liberty Jacksonville, Fla. CFA- ‘94 7-0-0-1 78 Matt Lepsis T 6-4 290 32 10 Colorado Conroe, Texas CFA- ‘97 16-16-0-0 79 Bryan Save DT 6-1 299 24 1 Colorado State Santa Ana, Calif. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 80 Rod Smith WR 6-0 200 36 12 Missouri Southern Texarkana, Ark. CFA- ‘94 16-16-0-0 81 Charlie Adams WR 6-2 190 26 4 Hofstra Mechanicsburg, Pa. FA- ‘04 16-2-0-0 82 Stephen Alexander TE 6-4 250 30 9 Oklahoma Chickasha, Okla. UFA(Det)- ‘05 16-15-0-0 83 Mike Leach TE/LS 6-2 245 29 7 William & Mary Jefferson Township, N.J. FA- ‘02 16-0-0-0 84 Javon Walker WR 6-3 209 27 5 Florida State Lafayette, La T(GB)- ’06 1-1-0-1 85 Ashley Lelie WR 6-3 200 26 5 Hawaii Honolulu, Hawaii D1- ‘02 16-13-0-0 87 David Kircus WR 6-2 192 26 3 Grand Valley State Imlay City, Mich. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 88 Tony Scheffler TE 6-5 250 23 R Western Michigan Morenci, Mich. D2- ’06 0-0-0-0 89 Nate Jackson TE 6-3 235 27 4 Menlo San Jose, Calif. T(SF)- ‘03 2-0-0-14 90 Corey Jackson DE 6-6 270 27 2 Nevada Kershaw, S.C. FA- ‘05 0-0-0-0 91 Ebenezer Ekuban DE 6-4 275 30 8 North Carolina Bowie, Md. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-4-0-0 92 Elvis Dumervil DE 5-11 250 22 R Louisville Miami, Fla. D4b- ’06 0-0-0-0 93 Antwon Burton DT 6-2 318 23 R Temple Cheektowaga, N.Y. CFA- ’06 0-0-0-0 94 Amon Gordon DL 6-2 319 24 3 Stanford San Diego, Calif. W- ’06 0-0-0-0 95 Khaleed Vaughn DE 6-4 278 25 2 Clemson North Atlanta, Ga. FA- ’06 0-0-0-0 96 Michael Myers DT 6-2 300 30 9 Alabama Vicksburg, Miss. T(Cle)- ‘05 16-15-0-0 97 Demetrin Veal DT 6-2 288 24 4 Tennessee Paramount, Calif. FA- ‘04 15-0-0-1 98 Courtney Brown DE 6-4 285 28 7 Penn State Alvin, S.C. FA- ‘05 14-13-0-2

RESERVE/INJURED LIST 86 Landon Trusty TE 6-7 266 24 2 Central Arkansas Hot Springs, Ark. FA- ’06 0-0-0-4^

^ - Hollowell was with NY Jets in ’05; Lang was with Cleveland in ‘05; Nash was with Tennessee in ’05; Trusty was with San Diego in ’05; Webster was with Cincinnati in ’05.

Head Coach: Mike Shanahan (12th year). Assistant Coaches: Mike Heimerdinger (Asst. Head Coach), Rick Dennison (Offensive Coordinator), Larry Coyer (Defensive Coordinator), Jeremy Bates (Offensive Assistant), Chip Beake (Quality Control), Ronnie Bradford (Special Teams), Tim Brewster (Tight Ends), Jacob Burney (Defensive Line/Ends), Kirk Doll (Linebackers), Thomas McGaughey (Special Teams Asst.), Pat McPherson (Quarterbacks), Andre Patterson (Defensive Line/Tackles), Jim Ryan (Defensive Asst.), Greg Saporta (Asst. Strength & Conditioning), Bob Slowik (Defensive Backs), Ryan Slowik (Defensive Asst.), Cedric Smith (Asst. Strength & Conditioning), Jimmy Spencer (Asst. Defensive Backs), Bobby Turner (Running Backs), Rich Tuten (Strength & Conditioning), Steve Watson (Wide Receivers). KEY: CFA-college free agent; D-drafted; FA-acquired as free agent; RFA-acquired as restricted free agent; UFA-acquired as unrestricted free agent; T-trade; W-waivers; *- allocated to NFL Europe. DENVER BRONCOS 2005-06 TRANSACTIONS — by date/by player (Updated August 3, 2006)

BY DATE 7/28/05 Signed RB Maurice Clarett (draft choice) 1/7/05 Signed RB Kris Briggs to future contract Signed OL Chris Myers (draft choice) 10/10/05 Signed TE Wesley Duke to practice squad Signed WR Todd Devoe to future contract Signed CB Darrent Williams (draft choice) 10/11/05 Signed DE George Gause to practice squad Signed DE Randy Garner to future contract 7/30/05 Placed DT D.J. Renteria on reserve/NFL Europe 10/31/05 Placed G Dwayne Carswell on reserve/non- Signed G Reese Hicks to future contract injury list football injury list Signed TE Mike Pinkard to future contract 7/31/05 Placed C/G Josh Sewell on Exempt/Left Squad Signed G Taylor Whitley Signed LB Markus Steele to future contract list. Signed C Ben Nowland 11/1/05 Placed CB Lenny Walls on reserve/injured list 1/8/05 Signed QB Matt Mauck from practice squad 8/2/05 Claimed C/G Chris Watton off Waivers Signed S Hamza Abdullah from Tampa Bay’s Waived RB Johnathan Reese 8/9/05 Placed C/G Josh Sewell on Reserve/Left Squad practice squad 1/10/05 Signed RB Santonio Beard to future contract list 11/15/05 Waived S Marques Anderson Signed CB Curome Cox to future contract 8/16/05 Signed CB Rod Babers Signed TE Wesley Duke from practice squad Signed WR Romar Crenshaw to future contract 8/17/05 Placed S Chris Young on reserve/injured list 11/28/05 Waived CB Lenny Walls from reserve/injured list Signed WR Grant Mattos to future contract (right knee) 12/8/05 Signed CB Antwaun Rogers to practice squad Signed DT D.J. Renteria to future contract 8/23/05 Claimed S Marques Anderson off Waivers 1/3/06 Signed G Martin Bibla to future contract Signed TE Keith Willis to future contract 8/24/05 Placed S Brandon Browner on reserve/injured Signed T Javiar Collins to future contract 1/19/05 Signed DE Chukie Nwokorie to future contract list (left forearm) Signed P/K Tyler Fredrickson to future contract 1/26/05 Signed P/K Mark Mariscal to future contract 8/30/05 Placed DE Chukie Nwokorie on reserve/injured Signed WR David Kircus to future contract 1/27/05 Signed G/C Josh Sewell to future contract list (left leg) Signed TE Chad Mustard to future contract 1/31/05 Signed QB Bradlee Van Pelt to future contract Waived CB Rod Babers Signed QB Preston Parsons to future contract 2/24/05 Released G Dan Neil Waived RB Kris Briggs 1/6/06 Signed WR Bill Flowers to future contract 3/3/05 Traded a 2005 fourth round pick to Cleveland in Waived RB Maurice Clarett 1/9/06 Signed TE Landon Trusty to future contract exchange for DT Gerard Warren Waived WR Romar Crenshaw 1/23/06 Signed LB Josh Buhl to future contract Signed LB Ian Gold Waived DT Luther Elliss Signed RB Cedric Cobbs to future contract Signed DE Aaron Hunt Waived QB Chad Friehauf Signed P/K Paul Ernster to future contract Re-signed G Ben Hamilton (UFA) Waived TE Patrick Hape Signed DE George Gause to future contract 3/10/05 Re-signed TE Jeb Putzier (RFA) Waived WR B.J. Johnson Signed G/C Rob Hunt to future contract Re-signed LS/TE Mike Leach (UFA) Waived DE Raylee Johnson Signed DE Corey Jackson to future contract 3/11/05 Waived P/K Mark Mariscal Waived QB Danny Kanell Signed DL Patrice Majondo-Mwamba to future contract Signed P/K Jeff Crowell Waived CB Jeff Shoate Signed RB Brandon Miree to future contract Signed P/K Tyler Fredrickson Waived G Cameron Spikes Signed T Erik Pears to future contract 3/18/05 Re-signed P/K Jason Baker (UFA) Waived LB Markus Steele Signed CB Antwaun Rogers to future contract Re-signed G/T Cooper Carlisle (UFA) Waived G Tim Stuber 1/25/06 Signed DE Khaleed Vaughn to future contract 3/25/05 Signed TE Stephen Alexander (UFA-Detroit) 8/31/05 Placed CB Jeff Shoate on reserve/injured list (left 2/1/06 Extended C Tom Nalen’s contract Signed LB Keith Burns (UFA-Tampa Bay) knee) 2/9/06 Extended S Sam Brandon’s contract 3/30/05 Traded RB Reuben Droughns to Cleveland in 9/1/05 Released DE Chukie Nwokorie 2/21/06 Extended S John Lynch’s contract through 2008 exchange for DE Ebenezer Ekuban and DT 9/3/05 Waived T Tyson Clabo season Michael Myers Waived T Anthony Clement 2/22/06 Extended DE John Engelberger’s contract Signed DE Courtney Brown Waived S Curome Cox through 2008 season 4/1/05 Signed RB Ron Dayne (UFA-N.Y. Giants) Waived DT Dorsett Davis 3/1/06 Waived RB Mike Anderson, DE Trevor Pryce and Re-signed DT Luther Elliss (UFA) Waived DT Mario Fatafehi TE Jeb Putzier Re-signed TE Patrick Hape (UFA) Waived RB Quentin Griffin 3/2/06 Extended T Matt Lepsis’s contract through 2009 Re-signed DT Monsanto Pope (RFA) Waived DE Aaron Hunt season 4/6/05 Re-signed DT Dorsett Davis (RFA) Waived S Jeremy LeSueur 3/7/06 Extended DE Courtney Brown’s contract through 4/15/05 Re-signed CB Lenny Walls (RFA) Waived WR Triandos Luke 2009 season 4/19/05 Re-signed DE Marco Coleman (UFA) Waived QB Matt Mauck 3/11/06 Re-signed RB Ron Dayne (UFA) to a three-year 4/20/05 Traded a 2005 first round pick (QB Jason Waived RB Brandon Miree contract Campbell) to Washington in exchange for Waived OL Chris Myers Re-signed TE/LS Mike Leach (UFA) to a four- Washington’s 2005 third round pick (CB Karl Waived C Ben Nowland year contract Paymah), a 2006 first round pick and a 2006 Waived DE Anton Palepoi Re-signed DT Gerard Warren (UFA) to six-year fourth round pick Waived T Erik Pears contract 4/21/05 Re-signed DE Anton Palepoi (RFA) Waived LB Terry Pierce 3/17/06 Signed DE Kenard Lang 4/26/05 Signed T Anthony Clement Waived LB Jashon Sykes 3/22/06 Claimed DL Amon Gordon off Waivers Signed CB Brandon Browner (rookie free agent) Waived C/G Chris Watton Waived WR Bill Flowers Signed Wesley Duke (rookie free agent) Waived G Zach Wilson 3/29/06 Re-signed LB Keith Burns (UFA) Signed T Erik Pears (rookie free agent) 9/4/05 Signed RB Cedric Cobbs to practice squad 4/3/06 Re-signed LB Patrick Chukwurah (UFA) Waived RB Santonio Beard Signed S Curome Cox to practice squad 4/20/06 Signed LB Ray Wells (FA) Waived TE Keith Willis Signed G/C Rob Hunt to practice squad 4/29/06 Traded a 2006 second round pick to Green Bay 5/3/05 Re-signed S Sam Brandon (RFA) Signed DE Corey Jackson to practice squad in exchange for WR Javon Walker 5/12/05 Signed QB Chad Friehauf (rookie free agent) Signed RB Brandon Miree to practice squad 5/2/06 Signed LB Nate Webster (UFA) Waived TE Mike Pinkard Signed G/C Chris Myers to practice squad 5/3/06 Signed DT Antwon Burton (RFA) 5/19/05 Traded P Jason Baker and a 2006 seventh round Signed T Erik Pears to practice squad Signed WR Brian Clark (RFA) pick to Carolina in exchange for P Todd 9/5/05 Placed WR Jerry Rice on reserve/retired list Signed S Tyler Everett (RFA) Sauerbrun 9/6/05 Signed QB Kliff Kingsbury to practice squad Signed FB Rashon Powers-Neal (RFA) 5/23/05 Signed G Cameron Spikes (UFA – Arizona) 9/7/05 Signed WR David Terrell Signed LB Cameron Vaughn (RFA) Waived DE Randy Garner 9/12/05 Released WR Jerry Rice 5/8/06 Signed RB Mike Bell (RFA) 6/1/05 Signed WR Jerry Rice FA 9/20/05 Waived P/K Paul Ernster 5/18/06 Signed CB Willie Middlebrooks (FA) 6/3/05 Placed G P.J. Alexander on reserve/non-football Released QB Kliff Kingsbury Signed P Jeff Williams (RFA) injury list Signed RB Quentin Griffin 5/30/06 Signed LB Kevin Harrison (FA) 6/14/05 Signed G Zach Wilson (RFA) 9/21/05 Signed P/K Paul Ernster to practice squad Signed RB Marty Johnson (FA) Assigned Patrice Majondo-Mwamba by NFL as 9/28/05 Placed P/K Paul Ernster on Practice Signed Bryan Save (FA) Intl. Practice Squad Player Squad/Injured list 6/2/06 Waived TE Wesley Duke 7/7/05 Signed P/K Paul Ernster (draft choice) 9/28/05 Signed LB Josh Buhl to practice squad 6/6/06 Placed TE Landon Trusty on reserve/injured list 7/15/05 Traded CB Willie Middlebrooks to San Francisco 10/1/05 Signed S Curome Cox from practice squad 7/8/06 Signed LB T.J. Hollowell in exchange for DE John Engelberger Waived RB Quentin Griffin 7/24/06 Waived S Brandon Browner 7/22/05 Signed CB Domonique Foxworth (draft choice) 10/4/05 Signed C/G Chris Myers from practice squad Waived LB Josh Buhl 7/25/05 Waived P/K Jeff Crowell. Waived P/K Tyler Waived S Curome Cox Waived P Tyler Fredrickson Fredrickson. Waived G Reese Hicks. 10/5/05 Signed S Curome Cox to practice squad Waived DE George Gause 7/27/05 Signed CB Karl Paymah (draft choice) 10/8/05 Signed S Curome Cox from practice squad Waived P Jeff Williams Waived WR Grant Mattos Waived TE Wesley Duke 7/26/06 Signed Elvis Dumervil (draft choice) COX, Curome— S GRIFFIN, Quentin — RB Signed Greg Eslinger (draft choice) 1/10/05 Signed to future contract 9/3/05 Waived Signed Brandon Marshall (draft choice) 9/3/05 Waived 9/20/05 Signed 7/27/06 Signed P Micah Knorr (FA) 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad 10/1/05 Waived Signed QB Jay Cutler (draft choice) 10/1/05 Signed from practice squad to roster HAPE, Patrick — TE Signed WR Domenik Hixon (draft choice) 10/4/05 Waived 4/1/05 Re-signed (UFA) Signed G Chris Kuper (draft choice) 10/5/05 Signed to practice squad 8/30/05 Waived Signed TE Tony Scheffler (draft choice) 10/8/05 Signed from practice squad to roster HARRISON, Kevin — LB 7/29/06 Signed T Adam Meadows (FA) CRENSHAW, Romar — WR 5/30/06 Signed (FA) 8/3/06 Waived RB Marty Johnson 1/10/05 Signed to future contract HICKS, Reese — G Signed RB Damien Nash (FA) 8/30/05 Waived 1/7/05 Signed to future contract CROWELL, Jeff — P/K 7/25/05 Waived BY PLAYER 3/11/05 Signed HIXON, Domenik — WR ABDULLAH, Hamza —S 7/25/05 Waived 7/27/06 Signed (draft choice) 11/1/05 Signed from Tampa Bay’s practice squad CUTLER, Jay— QB HOLLOWELL, T.J. — LB ALEXANDER, P.J. —G 7/27/06 Signed (draft choice) 7/8/05 Signed 6/3/05 Placed on reserve/non-football injury list DAVIS, Dorsett — DT HUNT, Aaron — DE ALEXANDER, Stephen — TE 4/6/05 Re-signed (RFA) 3/3/05 Signed 3/25/05 Signed (UFA-Detroit) 9/3/05 Waived 9/3/05 Waived ANDERSON, Marques — S DAYNE, Ron — RB HUNT, Rob — G/C 8/23/05 Claimed off Waivers 4/1/05 Signed (UFA-N.Y. Giants) 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad 11/15/05 Waived 3/11/06 Re-signed (UFA) to a three-year contract 1/23/06 Signed to future contract ANDERSON, Mike— RB DEVOE, Todd — WR JACKSON, Corey — DE 3/1/06 Waived 1/7/05 Signed to future contract 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad BABERS, Rod — CB DROUGHNS, Reuben — RB 1/23/06 Signed to future contract 8/16/05 Signed 3/30/05 Traded to Cleveland for DE Ebenezer JOHNSON, B.J. — WR 8/30/05 Waived Ekuban and DT Michael Myers 8/30/05 Waived BAKER, Jason — P DUKE, Wesley — TE JOHNSON, Marty — RB 3/18/05 Re-signed (UFA) 4/26/05 Signed (rookie free agent) 5/30/06 Signed (FA) 5/19/05 Traded to Carolina for P Todd Sauerbrun 10/8/05 Waived 8/3/06 Waived BEARD, Santonio— RB 10/10/05 Signed to practice squad JOHNSON, Raylee — DE 1/10/05 Signed to future contract 11/15/05 Signed from practice squad 8/30/05 Waived 4/26/05 Waived 6/2/06 Waived KANELL, Danny — QB BELL, Mike — RB DUMERVIL, Elvis — DE 8/30/05 Waived 5/8/06 Signed (RFA) 7/26/06 Signed (draft choice) KINGSBURY, Kliff — QB BIBLA, Martin — G EKUBAN, Ebenezer — DE 9/6/05 Signed to practice squad 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 3/30/05 Acquired from Cleveland with DT Michael 9/20/05 Released BRANDON, SAM — S Myers in exchange for RB Reuben KIRCUS, David — WR 5/3/05 Re-signed (RFA) Droughns 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 2/9/06 Extended contract ELLISS, Luther — DT KNORR, Micah — P BRIGGS, Kris — RB 4/1/05 Re-signed (UFA) 7/27/06 Signed (free agent) 1/7/05 Signed to future contract 8/30/05 Waived KUPER, Chris — G 8/30/05 Waived ENGELBERGER, John — DE 7/27/06 Signed (draft choice) BROWN, Courtney — DE 7/15/05 Acquired from San Francisco in exchange LANG, Kenard — DE 3/30/05 Signed for CB Willie Middlebrooks 3/17/06 Signed 3/7/06 Extended contract through 2009 season 2/22/06 Extended contract through 2008 season LEACH, Mike — LS/TE BROWNER, Brandon — CB ERNSTER, Paul — P/K 3/10/05 Re-signed (UFA) 4/26/05 Signed (rookie free agent) 7/7/05 Signed (draft choice) 3/11/06 Re-signed (UFA) to a four-year contract 8/24/05 Placed on reserve/injured list 9/20/05 Waived LEPSIS, Matt— T 7/24/06 Waived 9/21/05 Signed to practice squad 3/2/06 Extended contract through 2009 season BUHL, Josh — LB 9/28/05 Placed on Practice Squad/Injured list LeSUEUR, Jeremy — S 9/28/05 Signed to practice squad 1/23/06 Signed to future contract 9/3/05 Waived 1/23/06 Signed to future contract ESLINGER, Greg — C LUKE, Triandos — WR 7/24/06 Waived 7/26/06 Signed (draft choice) 9/3/05 Waived BURNS, Keith — LB EVERETT, Tyler — S LYNCH, John — S 3/25/05 Signed (UFA-Tampa Bay) 5/2/06 Signed (RFA) 2/21/06 Extended contract through 2008 season 3/29/06 Re-signed (UFA) FATAFEHI, Mario — DT MARISCAL, Mark — P/K BURTON, Antwon — DT 9/3/05 Waived 1/26/05 Signed to future contract 5/3/06 Signed (RFA) FLOWERS, Bill — WR 3/11/05 Waived CARLISLE, Cooper — G/T 1/6/06 Signed to future contract MARSHALL, Brandon — WR 3/18/05 Re-signed (UFA) 3/22/06 Waived 7/26/06 Signed (draft choice) CARSWELL, Dwayne — G FOXWORTH, Domonique — CB MATTOS, Grant — WR 10/31/05 Placed on reserve/non-football injury list 7/22/05 Signed (draft choice) 1/10/05 Signed to future contract CHUKWURAH, Patrick — LB FREDRICKSON, Tyler — P/K 7/27/05 Waived 4/3/06 Re-signed (UFA) 3/11/05 Signed MAUCK, Matt— QB CLABO, Tyson — G/T 7/25/05 Waived 1/8/05 Signed from practice squad 9/3/05 Waived 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 9/3/05 Waived CLARETT, Maurice — RB 7/24/06 Waived MEADOWS, Adam — T 7/28/05 Signed (draft choice) FRIEHAUF, Chad— QB 7/29/06 Signed 8/30/05 Waived 5/12/05 Signed (rookie free agent) MIDDLEBROOKS, Willie— CB CLARK, Brian — WR 8/30/05 Waived 7/15/05 Traded to San Francisco in exchange for DE 5/3/06 Signed (RFA) GARNER, Randy — DE John Engelberger CLEMENT, Anthony — T 1/7/05 Signed to future contract 5/18/06 Signed (free agent) 4/26/05 Signed 5/23/05 Waived MIREE, Brandon— RB 9/3/05 Waived GAUSE, George — DE 9/3/05 Waived COBBS, Cedric — RB 10/11/05 Signed to practice squad 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad 1/23/06 Signed to future contract MAJONDO-MWAMBA, Patrice — DL 1/23/06 Signed to future contract 7/24/06 Waived 6/14/05 Assigned by NFL to the Int’l. Practice Squad COLEMAN, Marco — DE GOLD, Ian — LB 1/23/06 Signed to future contract 4/19/05 Re-signed (UFA) 3/3/05 Signed MUSTARD, Chad — TE COLLINS, Javiar — T GORDON, Amon — DL 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 3/22/06 Claimed off Waivers (Cleveland) MYERS, Chris — G/C SYKES, Jashon — LB 7/28/05 Signed (draft choice) 9/3/05 Waived 9/3/05 Waived TERRELL, David — WR 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad 9/7/05 Signed 10/4/05 Signed from practice squad to roster TRUSTY, Landon — TE MYERS, Michael — DT 1/9/06 Signed to future contract 3/30/05 Acquired from Cleveland with DE Ebenezer 6/6/06 Placed on reserve/injured list Ekuban in exchange for RB Reuben VAN PELT, Bradlee— QB Droughns 1/31/05 Signed to future contract NALEN, Tom— C VAUGHN, Cameron — LB 2/1/06 Signed contract extension 5/2/06 Signed (RFA) NASH, Damien — RB VAUGHN, Khaleed — DE 8/3/06 Signed (FA) 1/25/06 Signed to future contract NEIL, Dan— G WALKER, Javon — WR 2/24/05 Released 4/29/06 Acquired from Green Bay in exchange for a NOWLAND, Ben— C 2006 second-round pick 7/31/05 Signed WALLS, Lenny — CB 9/3/05 Waived 4/21/05 Re-signed (RFA) NWOKORIE, Chukie — DE 11/1/05 Placed on reserve/injured list 1/19/05 Signed to future contract 11/28/05 Waived from reserve/injured list 9/1/05 Released WARREN, Gerard — DT PALEPOI, Anton — DE 3/3/05 Acquired from Cleveland for a 2005 fourth- 4/21/05 Re-signed (RFA) round pick 9/3/05 Waived 3/11/06 Re-signed (UFA) to a six-year contract PARSONS, Preston — QB WATTON, Chris — C/G 1/3/06 Signed to future contract 8/2/05 Claimed off Waivers (Tampa Bay) PAYMAH, Karl — CB 9/3/05 Waived 7/27/05 Signed (draft choice) WEBSTER, Nate — LB PEARS, Erik — T 5/2/06 Signed (UFA) 4/26/05 Signed (rookie free agent) WELLS, Ray — LB 9/3/05 Waived 4/20/06 Signed 9/4/05 Signed to practice squad WHITLEY, Taylor — G 1/23/06 Signed to future contract 10/31/05 Signed PIERCE, Terry — TE WILLIAMS, Darrent — CB 9/3/05 Waived 7/28/05 Signed (draft choice) PINKARD, Mike — TE WILLIAMS, Jeff — P 1/7/05 Signed to future contract 5/18/06 Signed (RFA) 5/12/05 Waived 7/24/06 Waived POPE, Monsanto — DT WILLIS, Keith — TE 4/1/05 Re-signed (RFA) 1/10/05 Signed to future contract POWERS-NEAL, Rashon — FB 4/26/05 Waived 5/2/06 Signed (RFA) WILSON, Zach — G PRYCE, Trevor— DE 6/14/05 Signed 3/1/06 Waived 9/3/05 Waived PUTZIER, Jeb — TE YOUNG, Chris — CB 3/10/05 Re-signed (RFA) 8/17/05 Placed on reserve/injured list (right knee) 3/1/06 Waived REESE, Johnathan — RB 1/8/05 Waived RENTERIA, D.J. — DT 1/10/05 Signed to future contract 7/30/05 Placed on reserve/NFL Europe injury list RICE, Jerry — WR 6/1/05 Signed 9/5/05 Placed on reserve/retired list 9/12/05 Released ROGERS, Antwaun — CB 12/8/05 Signed to practice squad 1/23/06 Signed to future contract SAUERBRUN, Todd—P 5/19/05 Acquired from Carolina for P Jason Baker and a 2006 seventh round pick SAVE, Bryan — DT 5/30/06 Signed (FA) SCHEFFLER, Tony — TE 7/27/06 Signed (draft choice) SEWELL, Josh— C 1/27/05 Signed to future contract 7/31/05 Placed on exempt/left squad list 8/9/05 Placed on reserve/left squad list SHOATE, Jeff— CB 8/30/05 Waived 8/31/05 Placed on reserve/injured list SPIKES, Cameron — G 5/23/05 Signed (UFA-Arizona) 8/30/05 Waived STEELE, Markus — LB 1/7/05 Signed to future contract 8/30/05 Waived STUBER, Tim — G 8/30/05 Waived

HOW THE BRONCOS ARE BUILT Updated 8/3/06

Year Draft/College Free Agent Trades Free Agents/Waivers 1993 K Jason Elam (3b) 9-7 (3rd AFC West) 1994 C Tom Nalen (7c) 7-9 (4th AFC West) G Dwayne Carswell (CFA) WR Rod Smith (CFA) 1995 8-8 (4th AFC West) 1996 13-3 (1st AFC West) 1997 T Matt Lepsis (CFA) 12-4 (2nd AFC West) Super Bowl Champs 1998 14-2 (1st AFC West) Super Bowl Champs 1999 LB Al Wilson (1) 6-10 (5th AFC West) 2000 G/T Cooper Carlisle (4b) 11-5 (2nd AFC West) 2001 C Ben Hamilton (4a) 8-8 (3rd AFC West) 2002 WR Ashley Lelie (1) FB Kyle Johnson** 9-7 (2nd AFC West) S Sam Brandon (4) TE/LS Mike Leach** S Chris Young (7a) WR Charlie Adams (CFA) 2003 T George Foster (1) TE Nate Jackson (S.F.)** G/T P.J. Alexander** 10-6 (2nd AFC West) RB Cecil Sapp (CFA) S Nick Ferguson** LB Louis Green** QB Jake Plummer*** (UFA-Arizona) 2004 LB D.J. Williams (1) CB Champ Bailey (Was)** LB Patrick Chukwurah** 10-6 (2nd AFC West) RB Tatum Bell (2a) CB Curome Cox** WR Darius Watts (2b) T Cornell Green*** (UFA-Tampa Bay) CB Jeff Shoate (5) S John Lynch** RB Brandon Miree (7b) DT Demetrin Veal** QB Bradlee Van Pelt (7c) CB Roc Alexander (CFA) 2005 CB Darrent Williams (2) DE Ebenezer Ekuban (Cle)** S Hamza Abdullah** 13-3 (1st AFC West) CB Karl Paymah (3a) DE John Engelberger (SF)** TE Stephen Alexander*** (UFA-Detroit) CB Domonique Foxworth (3b) DT Michael Myers (Cle)** DE Courtney Brown** C/G Chris Myers (6) P Todd Sauerbrun (Car)** LB Keith Burns*** (UFA-Tampa Bay) P/K Paul Ernster (7) DT Gerard Warren (Cle)** RB Cedric Cobbs** CB Antwaun Rogers (CFA) RB Ron Dayne*** (UFA-N.Y. Giants) WR Todd Devoe** LB Ian Gold** (D2a-2000) C/G Rob Hunt** DE Corey Jackson** DL Patrice Majondo-Mwamba T Erik Pears** WR David Terrell** G Taylor Whitley**

2006 QB Jay Cutler (1) WR Javon Walker (GB)** G Martin Bibla** TE Tony Scheffler (2) T Javiar Collins** WR Brandon Marshall (4a) DL Amon Gordon** DE Elvis Dumervil (4b) LB Kevin Harrison WR Domenik Hixon (4c) LB T.J. Hollowell** G Chris Kuper (5) WR David Kircus** C Greg Eslinger (6) P Micah Knorr** RB Mike Bell (CFA) DE Kenard Lang** DT Antwon Burton (CFA) T Adam Meadows** WR Brian Clark (CFA) CB Willie Middlebrooks** (D1-2001) S Tyler Everett (CFA) TE Chad Mustard** FB Rashon Powers-Neal (CFA) RB Damien Nash** LB Cameron Vaughn (CFA) QB Preston Parsons** DT Bryan Save TE Landon Trusty** (IR) Number in parentheses after draft choice indicates the round in which the player was taken. DE Khaleed Vaughn** CFA – indicates player was a rookie free agent when he joined the Broncos. LB Nate Webster** ** – indicates player was an NFL veteran or had been in other camps before joining the Broncos. LB Ray Wells** *** – indicates player was an unrestricted free agent who had not been released by previous team. (year) – indicates a player who had a previous tenure with the club, and the year it began. PS - indicates player is on Practice Squad (Majondo-Mwamba was assigned by the NFL as a member of the International Practice Squad) IR - indicates player is on Injured Reserve list for '05 season PS/IR - indicates player is on Practice Squad/Injured list for '05 season NFI - indicates player is on Reserve/Non-Football Injury list for '05 season T.J. MICAH HOLLOWELL KNORR 6-0 • 235 • 3 RD YR. • N EBRASKA 6-2 • 199 • 6 TH YR. • U TAH STATE BORN : April 8, 1981, in Copperas Cove, Texas BORN : Jan. 9, 1975 in Orange, Calif. HIGH SCHOOL : Copperas Cove High School, Copperas Cove, Texas 5757 HIGH SCHOOL : Orange High School, Orange, Calif. 44 ACQUIRED : Free Agent, 2006 ACQUIRED : Free Agent, 2006 NFL YEAR : 3rd • Y EAR WITH BRONCOS : 1st NFL YEAR : 6th • Y EAR WITH BRONCOS : 4th NFLAMES G PLAYED /STARTED : 6/0 NFLAMES G PLAYED /STARTED : 73/0 • P OSTSEASON : 1/0 LINEBACKER PUNTER HOLLOWELL AT A GLANCE: KNORR AT A GLANCE: • A third-year linebacker who joined the Broncos on July 8, 2006, as a free agent. • A sixth-year punter who re-joined the Broncos on July 27, 2006, as a free agent. • Played in six career games, including four as a rookie, recording a pair of special teams stops. • Recorded 146 punts for 6,086 yards (41.7) in parts of three seasons with Denver (2002-04). • Earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors as a senior at the University of Nebraska when • Earned second-team All-Big West honors as a senior at Utah State after nabbing first-team he registered 75 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, in 12 starts. recognition in 1995. • Finished his collegiate career at Nebraska with 173 tackles (76 solo), 3.5 sacks, two intercep- • Converted 39-of-60 field goals and posted 14 touchbacks as a kicker in college. tions, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble. • Entered the NFL with Dallas as a college free agent on March 20, 2001. • Entered the NFL with the New York Giants as a college free agent on April 30, 2004. CAREER TRANSACTIONS:Signed by Dallas as a college free agent 4/20/01; Released by Dallas 10/22/02; CAREER TRANSACTIONS:Signed by N.Y. Giants as a college free agent 4/30/04; Waived by N.Y. Giants 9/5/04; Signed by Denver 10/30/02; Waived by Denver 12/9/05; Signed by N.Y. Jets to a future contract 1/25/05; Signed by N.Y. Giants (practice squad) 9/7/04; Signed by N.Y. Giants (active roster) 10/12/04; Waived by N.Y. Released by N.Y. Jets 8/29/05; Signed by Carolina 3/10/06; Released by Carolina 6/15/06; Signed by Denver Giants 9/3/05; Signed by N.Y. Giants (practice squad) 9/5/05; Signed by N.Y. Jets off N.Y. Giants practice squad 7/27/06. 10/31/05; Waived by N.Y. Jets 11/21/05; Claimed by Miami off waivers 11/22/05; Waived by Miami 11/29/05; Signed by Chicago (practice squad) 12/2/05; Waived by Chicago 6/16/06; Signed by Denver 7/8/06. 2005: Knorr spent the 2005 season out of football. 2005: 2004: Knorr punted 54 times for 2,243 yards (41.5 avg.), including a career-long 66-yarder, with 12 Hollowell competed in training camp with the N.Y. Giants before he was signed to the team’s practice punts inside the 20 in 12 games as a Bronco before he was waived Dec. 9. His punting average ranked squad on Sept. 5. The N.Y. Jets signed him from the Giants’ practice squad on Oct. 31. He saw action in the Jets’ next two games - vs. S.D. (11/6) and at Car. (11/13) - and he recorded a special teams stop against the 12th in the AFC and he led the NFL with 15 touchbacks at the time of his release. Additionally, he earned Chargers. The Jets waived Hollowell on Nov. 21 allowing Miami to claim him the next day. He was inactive for AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors with a strong game in Broncos' season-opener vs. K.C. the Dolphins game at Oak. (11/27) before he was waived on Nov. 29. The Chicago Bears signed Hollowell to (9/12) when he booted two punts for 113 yards (56.5), including a career-long 66-yarder. One of his their practice squad on Dec. 2 where he spent the rest of the season. punts reached the end zone at S.D. (12/5), and finished the game with five punts for 202 yards (40.4 2004: Hollowell entered the NFL as a college free agent with the N.Y. Giants. He played on special teams in avg.), including a long of 44 yards. In snowy conditions vs. Oak. (11/28), Knorr punted seven times for four games (0 starts) and recorded one stop. He started the season on the practice squad before he was signed 252 yards (36.0 avg.), including three punts inside the 20-yd. line. At N.O. (11/21), he pinned a season- to the active roster on Oct. 12. He was declared inactive for the first four games before making his NFL debut high three punts inside the Saints' 20-yd. line among his six punts for 245 yards (40.8 avg.). Knorr vs. Atl. (11/21). He played the following week vs. Phi. (11/28) before he was declared inactive for the next two punted for 207 yards on five punts (41.4 avg.), placing two punts inside the 20-yd. line vs. Hou. (11/7). contests. He played vs. Pit. (12/18) and vs. Dal. (1/2) after he was inactive at Cin. (12/26). Additionally, his placement of punts helped limit the Texans to -6 return yards. Knorr also had three COLLEGE: Hollowell finished his playing career at Nebraska with 173 tackles (76 solo), 3.5 sacks, 12 tackles touchbacks on kickoffs against the Texans. He placed two punts inside the 20-yd. line, including one at for loss, a pair of interceptions, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble in 49 games (14 starts), including the 3-yd. line, vs. Atl. (10/31) to total three punts for 111 yards (37.0 avg.). Knorr surrendered only a appearances in the Rose and Alamo Bowls. As a senior, he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 accolades as 12-yard return against the Falcons, marking the fourth time he allowed one or fewer returns to an oppo- he registered 75 tackles and 1.5 sacks while starting all 12 games. As a junior, Hollowell posted 60 tackles in nent. He also recorded a touchback on a first-quarter kickoff against the Falcons. On Monday Night 14 games (2 starts). As a reserve linebacker, he made 26 tackles to help the Cornhuskers reach the Rose Bowl. Football at Cin. (10/25), Knorr punted five times for 205 yards (41.0 avg.) to help the punt-coverage unit As a true freshman, Hollowell played in all 11 games and the Alamo Bowl, primarily on the kickoff coverage unit. As a backup linebacker, he made seven tackles. yield only 25 yards on three returns. At Oak. (10/17), he punted twice for 64 yards (32.0 avg.) without a return. He posted four touchbacks on kickoffs vs. Car. (10/10) while punting three times for 153 yards PERSONAL: Hollowell completed his high school career at Copperas Cove High School as the school’s all- (51.0 avg.), including a 53-yard punt. Knorr placed a season-high two punts inside the 20-yd. line at time tackles leader with 311 after compiling 159 as a senior. He added three sacks, 21 tackles for loss to win T.B. (10/3) while punting five times for 189 yards (37.8 avg.) and allowing only a two-yard return. Vs. Class 5A All-State honors as a senior. He attended the National Football Foundation’s “Play it Smart” academ- ic program expansion party in New York City. He also took part in the National Education Association’s “Read S.D. (9/26), Knorr recorded a punting average of 53.0 on four punts for 212 yards. He punted seven Across America” program by reading to students at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School in Paterson, N.J. times for 290 yards at Jac. (9/19) for a 41.4 average, positioned one punt inside the 20-yd. line, while He majored in sociology at the University of Nebraska. Thomas Anthony Hollowell was born on April 8, 1981. adding a touchback on kickoffs. He also helped make a touchdown-saving tackle on Jermaine Lewis on a 50-yard return in the first quarter. Knorr was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after punt- hollowell’s Regular Season Record ing twice for 113 yards (56.5 avg.) vs. K.C. (9/12) and drilling six touchbacks while handling all kick- Year Club G S UT A TT S-Yds. I-Yds. PD FF FR TD-Int. TD-FR S Pts. offs. His six touchbacks were the highest total for a Broncos punter since 1983 and ranked first in the 2004 N.Y. Giants 4 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 NFL during Wk. 1. 2005 NYG/NYJ/MIA/CHI2 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CAREER TOTALS 6 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2003: Knorr played in all 16 games and punted 68 times for 2,937 yds. (43.2) with a net average of ADDITIONAL STATISTICS: Special teams tackles — 2004 (1), 2005 (1), TOTAL (2). 32.2. He placed 14 punts inside the 20-yd. line with six touchbacks and had two blocked. Knorr ranked fourth in the AFC (7th NFL) in punting average. He punted five times in the opener at Cin. (9/7) and set a then-career high with an average of 47 yds. per punt. His longest punt of the day was 55 yds., and the Bengals only returned two punts for an average of 1.5 yds. He placed two punts inside the 20 and had one touchback. At S.D. (9/14), Knorr punted three times for 134 yds. (44.7) for a net of 30.0 yds. and placed one punt inside the 20. In Wk. 3 vs. Oak. (9/22), he punted four times for 188 yds. to match the sional debut vs. Phi. (9/3) and averaged 44.6 yards on seven punts while helping limit Brian Mitchell to career high of 47.0 he set in Wk. 1. In the Oak. contest, Knorr recorded a career-best 61 yd. punt and a 5.0 average on four returns. At Ari. (9/10), Knorr averaged 57.0 yards on two punts with both punts had one punt blocked while also adding a special teams tackle. Vs. Det. (9/28), he punted four times for pinning the Cardinals inside their 20-yard line. He punted five times for a 46.4 average at Was. (9/18) 182 yds. (45.5) for a net average of 39.3. In Wk. 5 at K.C. (10/5), Knorr punted five times for 198 yds. to help limit Deion Sanders to three returns for zero yards. Knorr averaged 45.3 yards on three punts, (39.6) for a net average of 14.6, courtesy of a 93-yd. punt return by the Chiefs' Dante Hall, which was including a career-long 60-yarder vs. S.F. (9/24). He had two punts downed inside the 20-yard line at the first Knorr punt returned for a touchdown in his NFL career. In Wk. 6 vs. Pit. (10/12), he set a new Car. (10/1) while averaging 44.0 yards-per-punt. Vs. Ari. (10/22), he posted a career-high eight kickoffs. career high by averaging 52.8 yds. on six punts, with a career-best net average of 46.8 per punt. For the At Phi. (11/5), he pinned the Eagles inside their 25-yard line four times in five punts, including twice day, he placed three punts inside the 20-yd. line and had no touchbacks. In Wk. 9 vs. N.E. (11/3) Knorr inside their 10-yard line in the fourth quarter. Knorr suffered a hairline fracture of the tibial plateau in punted a season-high eight times for 336 yds. (42.0) for a net average of 35.8 and placed two inside his left knee while being run into on his only punt vs. Cin. (11/12). The punt, however, was called back the 20-yd. line with one touchback. He also took over placekicking duties when Jason Elam injured his due to a roughing -the-punter penalty. Dallas did not have to punt again against the Bengals, marking groin and converted the first two PATs of his career. Against S.D. (11/16), Knorr did not punt (only the the fourth time in club history that Dallas has not registered a punt in a game. Knorr's knee injury forced third time in Broncos history that the team did not punt in a game) but converted on a 27-yd. field goal, him to miss games at Bal. (11/19) and vs. Min. (11/23). He returned to action at T.B. (12/3) by averag- the first of his career, in the 4th qtr. He punted five times for 193 yds. (38.6) vs. Chi. (11/23) for a net ing 41.6 yards on five punts. The next week vs. Was. (12/10), he punted three times for a 45.0 average average of 30.8 and attempted the first pass of his career after mishandling a snap for placement on a to help limit Sanders to one return for 11 yards. His booming kickoffs against the Redskins helped hold field goal attempt. The pass fell incomplete. At Oak. (11/30), Knorr punted five times for 223 yds. (44.6) them to a 17.9-yard average on eight kickoff returns. Knorr posted a 36.2 average on five punts vs. the for a net average of 24.4 yds. He had one punt blocked out of the end zone in the 1st qtr. by O.J. NYG (12/17), including two that were downed inside the Giants' 20-yard line. In the season finale at Ten. Santiago for a safety. It was the second of Knorr's punts blocked on the season, both by Santiago. (12/25), he recorded a career-high 10 punts, the most by a Dallas punter since Mike Saxon had 10 Versus K.C. (12/7), Knorr punted twice out of bounds for a net average of 36.5 yds. in an effort to keep against Chicago on Nov. 17, 1985. It also tied the mark for the second most punts in a game in club the ball out of the hands of Chiefs return man Dante Hall. He also added his second special teams tack- history. Knorr averaged 39.8 yards on those 10 kicks against the Titans, including a 53-yarder. He also le of the season. Knorr punted five times for 208 yds. (41.6) vs. Cle. (12/14) for a net average of 31.4 closed his initial pro season with two special team stops, one at Ari. (9/10) and one vs. the NYG (12/17). and placed two inside the 20-yd. line. He also made a touchdown-saving tackle on Browns return-man 1999: Knorr was out of football coaching kickers for Irvine, Calif., High School while working at a gym Dennis Northcutt in the 4th qtr. Knorr's only punt at Ind. (12/21) was a thing of beauty as his 34-yd. and day spa. boot was downed by the Broncos at the Colts' 2-yd. line in the 3rd qtr. In the final game of the season 1997-98: Knorr was out of football managing a sports retail store in California. at G.B. (12/28), he punted seven times for 297 yds. (43.2) for a net average of 33.6, including a career- best 62-yd. punt. Knorr punted twice for 84 yds. (42.0) in the Broncos AFC Wild Card game at Ind. (1/4) COLLEGE: As a senior at Utah State in 1996, Knorr earned second-team All-Big West honors after con- with one touchback and one inside the 20-yd. line for a net average of 32.0. necting on 12-of-21 field goals and 36-of-47 extra points to lead the Aggies in scoring with 72 points. He finished his collegiate career with a school record 39 field goals made. As a junior, he earned first- 2002: Knorr signed with the Broncos Oct. 30 after being released by Dallas Oct. 22. He played in eight team All-Big West honors after tying for the league lead in field goals, connecting on 12-of-19 with four games with Denver and punted 24 times for 906 yds. (37.8) with a long of 59, two touchbacks, eight placed of the misses coming from beyond 50 yards. He also finished second on the team in scoring with 61 inside the 20-yd. line and 10 fair catches for a net average of 34.1. He tied for fifth in the AFC in touchbacks points. He led Utah State as a sophomore with 63 points on 15-of-20 field goals and 18-of-18 PATs on kickoffs (7). Knorr played the first seven games of the season with the Cowboys and for the season aver- while averaging 37.3 yards on 10 punts and posting 14 touchbacks on kickoffs. Knorr saw action in 11 aged 39.9 yards on 71 punts (2,834 yds.), with a net average of 34.8, which ranked seventh in the AFC, and games as a true freshman in 1993, averaging 38.6 yards on 33 punts. a long of 56. He placed 19 punts inside the 20, had six touchbacks and had 10 punts result in fair catches. PERSONAL: Knorr earned first-team All-CIF honors as both a junior and senior at Orange (Calif.) High 2001: Knorr averaged 40.2 yards-per-punt, and his 25 punts inside the 20-yard line tied for the fifth School, where he averaged 42-yards-per-punt as a senior. He participated in the Orange County North- most in club history. He excelled on kickoffs, placing 13-of-56 kicks (not including onside kicks or squibs South All-Star Game following his senior campaign. The history major finished his prep career with 81 at the end of the half or game) into the end zone with four touchbacks. He averaged 65.8 yards per kick- career points on 42-of-47 PATs and 13-of-27 field goals. This past offseason, Knorr served as a celebri- off (to the four-yard line), and Dallas' opponent's average starting position following his kickoffs was the ty escort while supporting the Children's Cancer Fund Fashion Show. He also donated time at the Ninth 26.8-yard line, placing it ninth in the NFC and tying for 12th in the NFL, in opponents’ drive start. In the Annual Komen Tarrant County Race for the Cure, firing the start pistol and assisting with the awards season opener vs. T.B. (9/9), he recorded five punts for a 36.8 yard average, including two downed inside ceremony. Knorr was born Jan. 9, 1975, in Orange, Calif., and is married to Kandice. the Bucs 20-yard line. Knorr posted a 42.5 yard average on four punts vs. S.D. (9/23). With Tim Dwight forced into three fair catches and a two-yard loss on his only return, Knorr's net average of 43.0 yards Knorr’s Regular Season Record against the Chargers was a career-high. At Phi. (9/30), he averaged 40.7 yards on six punts but suffered Year Club G S No. Yds. Avg. Net. TB In 20 LG Blk. the first blocked punt of his career when N.D. Kalu broke through to get his second-quarter kick. Knorr 2000 Dallas 14 0 58 2,485 42.8 35.8 8 12 60 0 also recorded a touchdown-saving tackle on Brian Mitchell's 54-yard punt return in the second quarter. 2001 Dallas 16 0 78 3,135 40.2 31.1 6 25 57 3 2002 Dallas 7 0 47 1,928 41.0 35.1 4 11 56 0 He posted a 43.0 yard average on five punts vs. Ari. (10/28), including one downed at the Cards one- 2002 Denver 8 0 24 906 37.8 34.1 2 8 59 0 yard line that eventually led to a Dexter Coakley interception return for a touchdown. Knorr recovered a 2003 Denver 16 0 68 2,937 43.2 32.2 6 14 62 2 2004 Denver 12 0 54 2,243 41.5 34.2 6 12 66 1 third-quarter fumbled kickoff to set Dallas up at the Cardinals’ 44-yard line. Despite his second blocked CAREER TOTALS 73 0 329 13,634 41.4 33.5 32 82 66 6 punt of the season, Knorr had a nice day at NYG (11/4), averaging 44.2 yards on five punts and helping BRONCOS TOTALS 36 0 146 6,086 41.7 33.3 14 34 66 3 limit the Giants to a 17.0 average on five kickoff returns. He also led the team with two special teams ADDITIONAL STATISTICS: Special team tackles — 2000 (2), 2001 (7), 2002 (4), 2003 (3), TOTAL (16). Has scored five points tackles. He recorded two more special teams tackles the next week at Atl. (11/11) and averaged 43.3 in his career. Made two PATs vs. New England (11/3/16) when Jason Elam left the game with a groin injury. Made a 27-yard yards on four punts, including 53- and 54-yard kicks. After recording season-highs with eight punts and field goal vs. San Diego (11/16/03). Attempted an incomplete pass to Dwayne Carswell on a botched snap vs. Chicago a 45.5 yards-per-kick average vs. Den. (11/22)—along with a special teams tackle in his fourth consec- (11/23/03). utive game—Knorr, vs. the NYG (12/9), recorded six punts for a 41.5 yard average. Four of those boots Knorr’s postSeason Record pinned the Giants inside their own 20, tying the second most in club history. In the Cowboys’ win vs. S.F. Year Club G S No. Yds. Avg. Net. TB In 20 LG Blk. (12/30), Knorr suffered his third blocked punt of the season. In the season finale at Det. (1/6/02), he 2003 Denver 1 0 2 84 42.0 32.0 1 1 44 0 placed three of his six punts inside the Lions 20-yard line. knorr’s Single-Game Highs 2000: Knorr burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie, finishing fourth in the NFC, 11th in the NFL, with a (Postseason in parenthesis) club rookie record 42.8 gross punting average. Only one other rookie in the league posted a higher aver- Punts — 10 at Tennessee, 12/25/00 (2 at Indianapolis, 1/4/04); Highest Average — 56.5, 2-113, vs. Kansas City, 9/12/04 (42.0, age in 2000 - Shane Lechler, 45.9. Knorr's net punting average of 35.8 - fourth highest rookie mark in 2-84 at Indianapolis, 1/4/04); Highest Net Average — 46.8 vs. Pittsburgh, 10/12/03 (32.0 at Indianapolis, 1/4/04); Longest club history - was the fifth best net average in the NFC and tied for 14th in the NFL. While handling kick- Punt — 66 vs. Kansas City, 9/12/04 (44 at Indianapolis, 1/4/04); Most PAT Attempts — 2 made both; vs. New England, 11/3/03; Most PATs Made — 2, 2-2 vs. New England, 11/3/03; Most Field Goal Attempts — 1 vs. San Diego, 11/16/03; Most Field off duties, he placed 18-of-57 kickoffs into the end zone, posting 10 touchbacks. His 17.5 touchback Goals Made — 1 vs. San Diego, 11/16/03; Most Points Scored — 3 vs. San Diego, 11/16/03. percentage was the second highest percentage in the NFL (Jeff Wilkins - 22.7%). He made his profes- 1998: Meadows started the team’s first 14 games at right tackle before missing the last two games ADAM with a left shoulder injury. The offensive line yielded only 22 sacks, the second-fewest in the NFL and MEADOWS 40 fewer than the previous season. The offensive line contributed to Marshall Faulk post a league-high 2,227 total yards from scrimmage, including 1,319 rushing yards. The offensive line blocked for rook- 6-5 • 290 • 8 TH YR. • G EORGIA ie quarterback, Peyton Manning, who threw for 3,739 yards, including four 300-yard games. BORN : Jan. 25, 1974 in Powder Springs, Ga. 1997: Selected by Indianapolis in the second round (48th overall) of the 1997 NFL Draft, Meadows HIGH SCHOOL : McEachern High School, Powder Springs, Ga. 7575 established himself as the team’s starting left tackle. He and became the club’s first open- ACQUIRED : Free Agent, 2006 ing day rookie starters on the offensive line since 1984. Additionally, he and Glenn joined Ron Solt NFL YEAR : 8th • Y EAR WITH BRONCOS : 1st (1984), Duane Bickett (1985) and Marshall Faulk (1994) as the only 16-game rookie starters since the Colts move from Baltimore in 1984. The Indianapolis and Tennessee offensive lines were the only two NFLAMES G PLAYED /STARTED : 103/96 • P OSTSEASON : 6/6 units to start all five of the same players in all 16 games in 1997. The offensive line cleared the way for TACKLE nine individual 100-rushing yard performances, including seven of the last eight games. COLLEGE: Meadows was a four-year starter at Georgia where he finished his career at left tackle. As a MEADOWS AT A GLANCE: senior, the Bulldogs averaged 230.6 passing yards per game. During his junior campaign, Meadows • An eighth-year tackle who came out of retirement to join the Broncos as a free agent on July started every game at split tackle and contributed to an offensive line that helped the team average 364.6 29, 2006. passing yards per game. As a sophomore, he started at tight tackle but switched to split tackle and • Played in 103 regular-season games (96 starts) for Indianapolis from 1997-2003. helped the offense amass a school-record 5,135 yards during the regular season. Meadows, who received the team’s “Biggest Offensive Surprise” award as a freshman, opened the season as a tight end • Helped Peyton Manning become the first player to pass for more than 4,000 yards in four con- before switching to tight tackle where he started the team’s last seven games. Meadows redshirted as secutive seasons (1999-2002). a true freshman in 1992. • Contributed to the Indianapolis offensive line yielding the second-fewest sacks in the league PERSONAL: Meadows lettered in football and basketball at McEachern High School in Powder Springs, in 1998 (22), the fewest sacks in the league in 1999 (team-record 14) and tied for the NFL-best Ga. Meadows has a degree in speech communications from the University of Georgia. He is married to 20 in 2000. Courtney and the couple has two daughters: Madeline and Hallie. Jonathan Adam Meadows was born • Started on an offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks (190) in the NFL from 1997-2003. in Powder Springs, Ga. on Jan. 25, 1974. • Blocked for the league’s leading rusher, Edgerrin James, in 1999 and 2000 with respective meadows’ Regular Season Record totals of 1,553 and 1,709. Year Club G S • Selected by Indianapolis in the second round (48th overall) of the 1997 NFL Draft. 1997 Indianapolis 16 16 CAREER TRANSACTIONS:Signed by Indianapolis as a draft choice 7/8/97; Placed on injured reserve (shoul- 1998 Indianapolis 14 14 der) 12/24/03; Released by Indianapolis 2/27/04; Signed by Carolina 3/9/04; Placed on reserve/retired list 1999 Indianapolis 16 16 2000 Indianapolis 16 16 8/10/04; Signed by Denver 7/29/06. 2001 Indianapolis 15 15 2002 Indianapolis 14 14 2003 Indianapolis 12 5 2005: Meadows spent the 2005 season out of football. 2004 OUT OF FOOTBALL 2005 OUT OF FOOTBALL 2004: Meadows spent the 2004 regular season out of football after competing in training camp with CAREER TOTALS 103 96 Carolina. He was placed on the reserve/retired list on Aug. 10. ADDITIONAL STATISTICS: Miscellaneous tackles — 1997 (1), 1998 (1), 1999 (0), 2000 (2), 2001 (2), 2002 (1), 2003 (0), 2003: Meadows played in 12 games (5 starts) with Indianapolis. He started three games at right tack- TOTAL (6). Fumble Recoveries — 2002 (1), TOTAL (1). le and two at right guard. He did not play in four games during the regular season and dressed, but did meadows’ postSeason Record not play in three playoff contests. Played on an offensive line that helped Peyton Manning pass for 4,267 yards as the quarterback eclipsed the 4,000-yard plateau for the fifth consecutive season. Additionally, Year Club G S 1999 Indianapolis 1 1 the offensive line yielded only 18 sacks. Edgerrin James had six 100-yard games, en route to 1,259 2000 Indianapolis 1 1 yards behind the offensive line’s blocking. In his first start of the season at N.O. (9/28), the Colts racked 2002 Indianapolis 1 1 up 55 points and Manning tossed for 314 yards and a team-record six touchdown passes. Meadows CAREER TOTALS 3 3 contributed to an offensive line which surrendered the fewest sacks in the league (190) from 1997- 2003. 2002: Meadows played in 14 games (14 starts) and the Colts playoff contest. He was inactive for two games (at Was. 10/27 and vs. Ten. 11/3) with a hip injury. He played on a line that helped Peyton Manning become the first quarterback in league annals to record four consecutive 4,000-passing yard seasons as the Colts’ signal caller threw for 4,200 yards. 2001: Meadows played in 15 games (15 starts) at right tackle and was inactive vs. N.E. (10/21) with a hamstring injury. He was an integral cog on an offensive line that helped the Colts lead the league with 10 individual 100-yard rushing performances. Behind the offensive line’s blocking, Peyton Manning reg- istered 4,131 passing yards. 2000: Meadows started all 16 games and the team’s playoff game at Mia. (12/30) at right tackle. He contributed to the team allowing only 20 sacks, which tied the N.Y. Jets for the fewest in the league and established the third-fewest yielded in team annals. The team passed for 4,413 yards while rushing for 1,859. Edgerrin James accounted for a team-record 1,709 rushing yards and won the league’s rushing title for the second consecutive season. Meadows played on an offensive line that cleared the way for nine individual 100-rushing yard games. 1999: Meadows started all 16 games and the team’s playoff game vs. Ten. (1/16) and contributed to an offensive line that allowed a league-low 14 sacks to establish the franchise benchmark. The offen- sive line also played an integral role in Edgerrin James becoming just the fifth rookie to lead the league in rushing yards (1,553 yards) and record 10 100-yard games. DAMIEN NASH 5-10 • 220 • 2 ND YR. • M ISSOURI BORN : April 14, 1982 in St. Louis HIGH SCHOOL : East St. Louis Senior High School, East St. Louis, Ill. 2929 ACQUIRED : Free Agent, 2006 NFL YEAR : 2nd • Y EAR WITH BRONCOS : 1st NFLAMES G PLAYED /STARTED : 3/0 RUNNING BACK NASH AT A GLANCE: • An second-year running back who joined the Broncos as a free agent on Aug. 3, 2006. • Played in three games with the Titans as a rookie and gained 32 yards on six carries while catching three passes for 14 yards all at Jacksonville on Jan. 1, 2006. • Played in 23 games (9 starts) at the University of Missouri and compiled 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns on 253 carries (5.0 avg.) after transferring from Coffeyville Community College in Kansas. • Paced the Tigers with 792 yards and a touchdown on 164 carries as a junior at Missouri. • Drew inspiration from his stepfather, James Howard, who played football at Oklahoma State. • Selected by Tennessee in the fifth round (142nd overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. CAREER TRANSACTIONS:Signed by Tennessee as a draft choice 7/26/05; Waived by Tennessee 7/31/06; Signed by Denver 8/3/06.

2005: Selected in the fifth round (142nd overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft, Nash played in three games recording six carries for 32 yards (5.3 avg.) and catching three passes for 14 yards (4.7 avg.). He was inactive for 12 games and dressed, but did not play vs. Cin. (10/16). After he was inactive for the team’s first five games and did not play against the Cardinals, Nash made his NFL debut at Ari. (10/23), but did not record any stats. He was inactive for the next six games. He returned to action vs. Sea. (12/18), but did not record any stats. He was inactive at Mia. (12/24), but saw action in the regular-season finale at Jac. (1/1). In the second half, he carried the ball six times for 32 yards (5.3 avg,), including an 8-yard run against the Jaguars. He added three receptions for 14 yards (4.7 avg.), including a 7-yarder in Jacksonville. He contributed five carries for 27 yards to set up the Titans first score of the game. COLLEGE: Nash played two seasons at the University of Missouri, compiling 253 carries for 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns in 23 games (nine starts). He also made 36 catches for 281 yards and a pair of touchdowns for the Tigers. As a junior, Nash played in 10 games (8 starts) and led the team with 164 attempts for 792 yards (4.8 avg.) and seven touchdowns. He also caught 25 balls for 176 yards and a touchdown. He eclipsed the 100-yard plateau three times. As a sophomore, Nash placed third on the team totaling 462 yards and five touchdowns on 89 carries and contributed 105 yards a score on 11 catches. As a redshirt freshman at Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kan, Nash ranked by Rivals.com as the third-best JUCO tailback before a knee injury in the season opener ended his season. PERSONAL: Nash compiled a standout senior season at East St. Louis (Ill.) High School racking up 1,444 yards and 28 touchdowns after playing the first three seasons at Riverview Gardens in St. Louis. In three seasons at Riverview Gardens, he compiled 5,395 yards, 1,160 passing yards and 95 total touchdowns. He also led the school to the Missouri Class 5A state title. Nash lettered in track and field and was timed at 10.3 seconds in the 100-meter dash. He majored in general education at the University of Missouri. Damien Darnell Nash was born on April 14, 1982 in St. Louis. nash’s Regular Season Record RUSHING RECEIVING SCORING Year Club G S No. Yds. Avg. LG TD No. Yds. Avg. LG TD TD TDr TDp TDrt 2pt Pts. 2005 Tennessee 3 0 6 32 5.3 8 0 3 14 4.7 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CAREER TOTALS 3 0 6 32 5.3 8 0 3 14 4.7 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nash’s Single-Game Highs (Postseason in parentheses) Rushes — 3, at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Rushing yards — 32, , at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Longest rush — 8, at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Rushing touchdowns — None (none). Receptions — 3, at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Receiving yards — 14, at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Longest reception — 7, at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Receiving touchdowns — None (none). Rushing yards in one quarter — 27 (4th qtr.), at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Rushing yards in one half — 32 (2nd half), at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Total yards — 46 (32 rush/14 rec.), at Jacksonville, 1/1/06 (none). Total touchdowns — None (none). 2006 DENVER BRONCOS

Offseason FEATURE CLIPS (Updated August 6)

Shanahan, Mike – Head Coach p. 2 Heimerdinger, Mike – Asst. Head Coach p. 4 Abdullah, Hamza – S p. 6 Bell, Mike – RB p. 8 Brown, Courtney – DE p. 10 Clark, Brian – WR p. 11 Cobbs, Cedric – RB p. 13 Cutler, Jay – QB p. 14 Dayne, Ron – RB p. 21 Dumervil, Elvis – DL p. 23 Elam, Jason – K p. 25 Eslinger, Greg – C p. 30 Everett, Tyler – S p. 32 Foxworth, Domonique – CB p. 34 Jackson, Corey – DE p. 36 Kircus, David – WR p. 38 Kuper, Chris – G p. 40 Lang, Kenard – DE p. 42 Lynch, John – S p. 44 Marshall, Brandon – WR p. 46 Meadows, Adam – T p. 48 Mustard, Chad – TE p. 50 Paymah, Karl – CB p. 52 Plummer, Jake – QB p. 54 Sapp, Cecil – RB p. 57 Scheffler, Tony – TE p. 58 Smith, Rod – WR p. 60 Terrell, David – WR p. 63 Van Pelt, Bradlee – QB p. 65 Vaughn, Cameron – LB p. 67 Walker, Javon – WR p. 69 Warren, Gerard – DT p. 73 Watts, Darius – WR p. 75 Webster, Nate – LB p. 77 Williams, D.J. – LB p. 79 Williams, Darrent – CB p. 81 Rocky Mountain News: Columnists Page 1 of 2

Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/sports_columnists/article/0,1299,DRMN_83_4896321,00.html Lincicome: Madden induction lowers standards for Hall

August 5, 2006

John Madden has put Mike Shanahan in the Hall of Fame.

Not that Shanahan could not get there on his own, but Madden has made it easier.

Since Shanahan has already won six more regular-season games and one more Super Bowl than Madden, clearly the Bronco coach is beyond the entrance bar, and Shanahan will not need to wait 27 years and become a TV oddity to verify his credentials, as Madden needed to do.

Likewise, of the coaches now working - Mike Holmgren, Bill Parcells, Marty Schottenheimer, Bill Cowher, to name several - all should be sending Madden a note of thanks for lowering the standards.

If Dick Vermeil and Don Coryell and George Seifert and Dan Reeves and Chuck Knox are wondering why Madden and not them, well, maybe they ought to get their own video game out on the market. What Jimmy Johnson needs to do is bribe somebody.

Of the 21 coaches now in the Hall of Fame, Madden's credentials are among the thinnest, if similar to Vince Lombardi, who won seven fewer games than Madden over roughly the same span of time.

But then Lombardi won five titles and died on the job, and he does have the Super Bowl trophy named after him.

There is Bill Walsh, with the fewest victories of any Hall coach save Greasy Neale, but Walsh did win three Super Bowls, and anyone who thinks Madden was as good a coach as Walsh will buy any product that Madden shills for.

This is not to suggest that Madden does not deserve to be in Canton, nor that any coach already there should be removed.

But what seems to be a bit out of whack here is the reason Madden is there.

Is he there because in 10 years he won 103 games, or because he became a TV fixture with his grunts and groans, as if the violence of football needs further punctuation? Madden became America's goofy uncle while the likes of Don Shula and Chuck Noll labored on, when even Tom Flores did just as well with the Oakland franchise as did Madden and won one more Super Bowl.

Certainly, halls of fame have room for comic characters. Abbott and Costello, I believe, are in Cooperstown, as are the feathers of the San Diego Chicken. And have you ever seen the actual football building in Canton? It looks like a pie pan with a banana sticking out of it. You need a sense of humor just to go through the door.

To insist now, 27 years after his last victory, that Madden is suddenly a great coach is simply too silly to believe. And to suggest also that Madden was not inducted before now because there was a chance that he would return to coaching is to not have been paying attention for 27 years.

Joe Gibbs is in the Hall of Fame and has returned to coaching. Marv Levy would be back in a minute, if anyone asked.

Here's another example: 12 years after he caught his last pass, Mike Ditka became the first tight end in the Hall, instead of John Mackey, who had not, in the meantime, become a famous coach and character. Clearly, Madden has finally been chosen because he was too obvious to ignore.

The problem is, while everyone can agree that Madden deserves to be honored, there is no suitable category for him other than coach. What would he be, big, loud, happy lump? There is a division for Contributors, but that is mostly for owners and

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executives and assorted pioneers.

Madden is a media creature. That is how he is known. That is the choice he made. This got him the Rozelle Award in 2002, given to broadcasters. So he already is in the Hall at the job for which he is best known.

Still, to include Madden in the media division is beneath what he really has meant to football, even if he were to be an honorary writer. While anyone should be flattered to be in the company of Will McDonough and Paul Zimmerman and Dick Connor, it is hardly the same as being there with Lombardi and Shula.

This year's class is fairly without dispute, with Warren Moon and Troy Aikman deserving quarterbacks, Harry Carson, linebacker, Rayfield Wright, tackle, and very likely the best defensive end ever, .

Other players who may think they deserve the same honor really have no challenge, but coaches who kept at the game and achieved more success for less return than Madden have a real gripe.

[email protected]

MORE LINCICOME COLUMNS »

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Heimerdinger takes over Broncos offense that already delivers

By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News August 4, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - He watched it all, every second of the spring reruns.

Yes, every offensive play of the Broncos' 2005 season has flickered across the screen in front of Mike

Heimerdinger at some point this offseason. Back and forth. And back again.

When he finally was done, when he had jotted the last note, he leaned back, put his hands behind his head:

"And I thought, well, just don't sink the boat, smart guy," Heimer- dinger said with a laugh. "I looked at everything we did last year, and that's what popped in my head. Just don't sink the damn boat."

But of all the changes in the Broncos roster this offseason, the biggest might have come near the top of the flow chart.

Gone is Gary Kubiak, the Broncos longtime offensive coordinator, who spent almost two decades with the team as a player or a coach.

When Kubiak became the coach of the in January, it left Broncos coach Mike Shanahan to fill one of the key positions on his staff. To do that, he turned to another longtime friend in Heimerdinger, who was Shanahan's roommate when they were students at Eastern Illinois University. Friendship is one thing, but Shanahan has made it clear "business is business" as well.

"And I think it's always good to get a fresh set of eyes on things to see how you're doing things," Shanahan said. "Mike is a good football coach, smart, and I think the fact Mike was here and then went on and then came back meant he could look at how we do things and maybe tweak some things from what he's done elsewhere.

"But basically it will be the same type of game plans, same type of system, but we can all look at how we're doing it. We can be better, and that's what we want."

Shanahan promoted Rick Dennison, who has been running the team's rushing game for several years, to offensive coordinator, then named Heimerdinger assistant head coach. Heimerdinger will coordinate the passing game and call plays on game days.

"They're going to do what they do," Broncos linebacker Al Wilson said. "When it's all said and done, they are going to do what they always do.

"As long as they put points on the board, which I know they can, and we can get the ball back for them, that's what it's all about.

"They score points, and we get them the ball as many times as possible so they can do that. That doesn't change now."

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No, it does not. Heimerdinger, who was a receivers coach on the Broncos teams that won back-to- back Super Bowls, always has spent time studying what the Broncos were doing with the ball, even when he was away from Denver.

When he coached with the and New York Jets, he often would be in the teams' video rooms digging up some Broncos video from the week before.

"I studied them all the time to see what they were doing," Heimer- dinger said. "I thought Gary and Mike did the best job of attacking defenses, attacking people. So if there is any crossover with them with teams we were going to play, I always looked at what they were doing. I could take what I saw from them matching up and use it."

"I don't see it as different at all," Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer said. "I think we're doing the same things, but we're all trying to do them better, find some more big plays in there."

In Tennessee, Heimerdinger coached a league Most Valuable Player in Steve McNair in 2003 and in 2004 coaxed an injury- ravaged Titans offense to lofty numbers. That season, Titans backup quarterback Billy Volek, an undrafted player, became the fourth player in league history to throw for more than 400 yards in back-to-back games as the Titans rolled out a bevy of three-receiver looks.

After a tumultuous season with the Jets in 2005, in which the team lost its top three quarterbacks to injury at one point, Heimerdinger offered to forgo the final year of his contract with the team after Herman Edwards left for the Chiefs, and he returned to the Broncos.

"There was some pressure,"

Heimerdinger said. "The standard is so high here. The great thing about coming back is you see everything again. I don't care how much film you watch, you still don't get the little reasons why they do things. And even when I would talk to Gary or something like that, he would tell you half. And you'd have to figure out the other half."

The Broncos are looking to continue their success in the run game - they have been ranked fifth or higher in the league in nine of the past 11 seasons - while smoothing out things in the passing game.

The Broncos, despite throwing seven interceptions last season, were 18th in the league in passing and 22nd in the league in third- down conversions.

The Broncos have added former Pro Bowl receiver Javon Walker in a trade and selected a tight end (Tony Scheffler) and two receivers (Brandon Marshall and Domenik Hixon) in the draft in April.

Shanahan and Plummer have said they are in search of more big plays this season.

"Look, you come in there, and you just keep it on the same level it's been," Heimerdinger said. "It's a proven system.

"Between the time I left and now they've been in the top five almost every year. I'm just trying not to screw it up."

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Monday, May 15, 2006 His Own Name, His Own Numbers By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Hamza Abdullah only wants to take credit for what he actually did. That's why he takes umbrage with the one number that stands out in a rookie season that saw him play only in the Broncos' Dec. 4, 2005 loss at Kansas City.

His ledger boasts of forcing Chiefs kickoff/punt returner Dante Hall to fumble during the Broncos' 31-27 loss. Or did he?

"That's the funny thing that people don't know -- I didn't have the forced fumble," he said.

Having such an accomplishment on his résumé is all well and good, but Abdullah would rather see it vanish -- eventually to be replaced with something he actually did.

"I just happened to be standing right there and they credited me with it," Abdullah said. "So everyone comes up and says, 'Dude, I heard you made Dante Hall fumble.' I'm like, 'No, I had the tackle on Dante Hall, but I didn't make him fumble; Sam Brandon made him fumble.'"

That proved to be the only chance he had to get in the stats column as a rookie; Abdullah's stop on that play gave him his first and so far only NFL tackle.

His season was mostly practice repetitions -- first on the ' practice squad, then on the Broncos' 53-man roster. With the exception of the Chiefs game, his gamedays were spent in sweats, but whether he was on the practice field or a stadium's sidelines, Abdullah's learning continued unabated.

With veteran safety John Lynch as one of the team's leaders, Abdullah quickly found players from whom he could learn after joining the Broncos last November. His only reservation was about whether his his inquisitiveness would become an annoyance.

He quickly discovered otherwise.

"I was thinking, 'Man, if I go ask him a question, they'll say, 'Get away from me, rookie,'" Abdullah said. " But ever since the first day I got there, John was the first guy to welcome me, saying, 'Oh, man, I heard you came from Tampa,' and ever since then it's been a good vibe.

"He teaches me so many things that maybe he doesn't even know. I'm always watching John because he's one of the best safeties to play this game. Of course I'm going to sit there and learn from him."

But the lessons are more than just learning how to play safety. They involve learning how to be a pro.

"I look at him and see the small things that he does, the way he approaches a practice," Abdullah said. "We'll have a day where we wear shorts and helmets and everyone's a little lackadasical, but he runs up to the ballcarrier and pretends he's making the tackle, and those little things. That's why you don't see him miss many tackles."

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General Manager Ted Sundquist noted that Abdullah displayed aggressiveness during his practice time with the Broncos last fall. It's consistency that he wants to see from the former Washington State standout.

"He's not afraid to hit you," Abdullah said. "He's shown some ranginess and some ability to move around in practice in 2005.

"He's got to go out, compete and do it on a consistent basis, because we've got two proven veterans at the position, and safety's one of those positions where you can't have a letdown."

For what it's worth, the offseason hasn't seen any letdown. He took up residence in Denver, living at college roommate Karl Paymah's home during the course of the team's springtime workouts. That's going to change Memorial Day weekend, though, when he gets married and abandons the single life.

"I'm moving out of the bachelor pad," he said. "No more long nights for me; I can't keep up with those guys."

Off the field, that might be the case.

On the field, Abdullah plans on keeping pace -- and maybe setting it someday.

"I can tell (the Broncos coaches and personnel staffers) want me here, just without them saying anything -- from the interaction with me, I know they want me here and want me to succeed," Abdullah said. "They brought me in here, so that shows faith in me, so I'm going to show faith in them by working my butt off and not having the ceiling, working as hard as I possibly can."

And that, he believes, will lead to statistical accomplishments that are all his own.

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Tuesday, June 27, 2006 Blessing in Disguise By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The last thing Mike Bell expected on draft weekend was for the entire selection process to pass him by. He'd been invited to and took part in the Senior Bowl, which sees the vast majority of its players get drafted. He'd been a bright spot amidst some otherwise glum autumns for the University of Arizona's football program, gaining 2,822 yards in the previous three seasons and 3,163 for his entire career.

Most pre-draft media prognostications had Bell as a middle-round pick, perhaps even worthy of first-day status. That was the projection. Reality proved to be another matter entirely.

"It was definitely shocking," he said. "I was expecting to go in the middle rounds."

Of course, the NFL was still in his future, and within a month, he sat in position meetings as the newest Broncos running back. A pretty good place to be, considering what other unheralded men in that spot have done over the years -- Terrell Davis, Olandis Gary, Mike Anderson, just to name a few.

"(Not being drafted was) a blessing in disguise because I couldn't be happier," Bell said. "I'm in the perfect scheme and I'm under the perfect coaching staff and with the perfect players. I couldn't be happier. I feel like I have just as much opportunity as I would have if I'd gotten drafted."

But for Bell, the Broncos' scheme isn't merely the perfect one for him because it's propelled others from the bottom of the depth chart to the 1,000-yard plateau. Rather, it allows him to build on the manner in which he ran at Arizona -- particularly after a regime change altered the look of the offense in time for his junior season.

"I had the opportunity to run in a similar offense in college -- not exactly the same, but we ran a lot of zone-blocking schemes, so I pretty much know the blocking part of it: just one cut and go," Bell said. "I've been waiting to be in an offense where there's execution every play, and watching the Broncos, it seems like they execute every play. So having the opportunity to play in this offense is just a blessing for me."

According to Bell, the Broncos took detailed notice of him in the pre-draft build-up.

"I spoke to (running backs) Coach (Bobby) Turner more than I'd spoken to pretty much anybody," Bell recalled. "I talked to him after the Combine, and we spoke a lot."

Bell valued the conversations with the Broncos' long-time running guru, even though he didn't think the chats would lead to much.

"I don't think they really needed to draft a running back," Bell said, "but we had a good relationship just in case something happened down the road -- like this."

It wasn't just a chance to be a Bronco. It was a chance to return to the place where he spent his formative years before he moved to Arizona for the latter half of his childhood. He may have left Denver, but he didn't forfeit his citizenship in Broncos

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country.

"I've always been a big-time Broncos fan," he said. "I was 10. I was a big-time Elway fan and I always liked the Broncos. To have the opportunity to play for them, I couldn't ask for anything more. "I had Elway and Terrell Davis jerseys, which I still own to this day."

It was no wonder, then, that some of Bell's new Broncos teammates like Kyle Johnson first found themselves paying attention to his demeanor -- one that the veteran wished he possessed when he went through his first NFL training camp with the four summers ago.

"He just looks like a guy who's happy to play football, and that's an attitude that rookies need to have more of," Johnson said. "I wish I was more exuberant as a young man when I got in. I was a little bit like, 'What have we got to do now?' But he's very excited to be here and it's a joy to watch a young player want to play and compete at the highest level of football."

All Bell wants to do right now is extend his stay. Then, he believes, he can blossom.

"A successful rookie season means making the team and just working my way from there.," Bell said. "Right now, I'm just working on making the team and then from there, the sky's the limit. I'm not going to put a cap on my lid."

The draft may have passed Bell by. But he remains ecstatic that the Broncos did not.

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To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4639298,00.html Brown feels healthy, at home with the Broncos

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News April 21, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - Courtney Brown's past off-seasons can be catalogued as much by the body parts he rehabilitated as the years themselves.

Knee and ankle work consumed down time in 2002. More knee recovery followed in 2003. Getting his biceps and foot right took up much of the past two springs.

But Brown, a Denver Broncos defensive end, is experiencing something relatively unique the past few weeks -- he has only had to deal with general body soreness.

There have been no trips to the surgeon, no wiling away the hours in the training room. It's get work done and go home. And he's enjoying the truncated schedule as a full participant in the team's off-season conditioning program.

"As far as not having any surgeries, it's a big plus," Brown said this week. "My body can just heal in general and I'm not just concentrating on a few areas. And I feel a lot better as far as recovery time.

"Coming back running and lifting felt a whole lot better than other off-seasons, too, because you always had to catch up from other injuries. You can just kind of move and groove."

In March 2005, the only thing on Brown's mind was the prospect of moving. He had just been released by the Cleveland Browns. The Washington Redskins wanted him. The Seattle Seahawks and made a run for his services, too.

But two weeks later, he signed with the Broncos, getting a late start on full conditioning work while his surgically repaired left foot healed.

His first training camp in Denver signaled Brown might have a continuation of his hard luck with injuries: He dislocated his left elbow during an August workout.

But the first pick in the 2000 draft rebounded nicely to put up a solid season. He started 13 games, posting 38 tackles with two sacks and two fumble recoveries.

The structure of Brown's contract made it a distinct possibility he could be one and done with the Broncos. But he opted for a deep pay cut and the chance to stay instead of shop his services during free agency for the second year in a row.

"There were a lot of factors," he said about his decision to stick around. "And I don't want to go through the laundry list of them. But the bottom line is I wanted to be here. I'm thankful and appreciative I'm here."

Brown added he's more comfortable in Denver entering his second season and is looking forward to the rest of the time leading to the regular season.

"I've had a good start," he said. "I really can't complain."

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Wednesday, July 5, 2006 Brian Clark: Running Down a Dream By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Until Brian Clark was 14 years old, playing football was just a dream.

Not to play in the NFL or at a major-college level, mind you. His dream at that point was merely to play on the junior-varsity team at Chamberlain High School in Tampa, Fla. Clark loved football -- loved watching it, talking about it, thinking about it -- but aside from playing with his friends in an open space near his home, he couldn't participate.

His mother, Charlene, wouldn't let him.

"I always wanted to play the sport, but my mom, being protective of me as her only child, she refused to let me play little-league football," Clark remembered. "Whenever she would drive up to the house, I used to tell my friends to throw it deep so she could see that I could catch and all that kind of stuff.

"She let me play baseball, but I just didn't like it; my heart wasn't there. I played it just to stay out of trouble."

Like many growing up in the football-frenzied Sunshine State, Clark had a heart for the gridiron, so he went ahead signed up for the junior-varsity team -- without telling his mother. She offered tacit approval, but with a catch.

"She said, 'If you get hurt, it's on you.'"

By the fact that you're reading of Clark's football origins on an NFL team Web site, you know how the story came out. He seized his long-awaited chance to play the game with gusto, playing well enough to earn a college scholarship, and doing well enough there to earn a chance to play in the NFL with the Denver Broncos.

"I started out as a 14-year-old, not ever playing organized football, having no skills at all and just having to work my behind off, so I'm just one of those guys who truly believes that God has blessed me and shown favor," he said. "Even if I don't make this team, if I don't ever play a snap of NFL football, I'm just happy that I was able to sit in this chair, sit here and have this interview, because not a lot of people can say that."

No aspect of his newly discovered NFL existence would have been possible, he believes, without his mother's guidance. He credits her with his drive, one that led him to spend countless extra hours working out during his college days -- "when nobody else is working out, that's when you want to work out," he says -- and, now, to spending countless hours watching footage of the Broncos' previous 14 offseason practices in which he took part in May and June.

The work ethic came from his mother. The fanaticism about tape study -- which is quite palatable to the Academic All-Atlantic Coast Conference honoree -- stemmed from his work with State offensive coordinator Marc Trestman, who previously spent 17 seasons on NFL sidelines from Miami to San Francisco.

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"He brought to me that philosophy of turning every single page of your playbook, closing your eyes and (visualizing what happens)," Clark said. "I spend probably about an hour to two hours a day of closing my eyes and visualizing plays and putting myself in different situations."

Trestman arrived in 2005, one year after Clark ascended up the depth chart to become State's top receiver. But with No. 4 overall selection Philip Rivers no longer around to sling passes after smashing virtually every passing standard in the school's ledger, Clark's numbers didn't quite match up to those of his predecessor, Jerricho Cotchery.

The Wolfpack offense had its share of difficulties, while while its defense -- featuring 2006 first-rounders Mario Williams, Manny Lawson and John McCargo -- kept the team afloat and helped it return to a bowl game last autumn after a season on the outside of the postseason. And while Clark averaged an impressive 21.5 yards per catch last year and scored six times, he also only amassed 25 receptions -- although that was still seven more than he nabbed in a frustrating 2004 season.

"After Jerricho Cotchery left, I was supposed the guy, the next guy to take on receiving and have 1,000-plus yards and all these stats, and I didn't get it," Clark said. "I wasn't able (to have) that happen, and it was a down time."

Clark closed his four years in Raleigh with 78 receptions for 1,311 yards and 11 touchdowns. Not bad, by any means. But not what he hoped for.

"Of course it hurt me because I didn't get as much media coverage and I wasn't able to get as many catches so maybe, possibly, I could have been drafted," Clark said. "But my belief (is that) the Lord works in mysterious ways.

"I'm here. I'm here and I truly believe that I'm going to make this team if not (another) NFL team, and I'm excited, and I think those two years (2004 and 2005) and all those people that had a negative or positive impact on me, I thank all of them, because they helped me grow, and it allowed me to stand here today. The way I carry myself now is because of those past two years when Philip left."

Grateful for his Denver opportunity, he spent a good portion of his first two months in the NFL soaking up whatever he could learn from coaches like Steve Watson and new teammates like Rod Smith.

"Since I've been here, he's helped me tremendously, along with Coach Watson," Clark said. "They've just taken me and critiqued everything, and that's what I need. That's what I've always looked for. I'm not afraid of being corrected."

Truly the sentiment of one willing to do whatever it takes to achieve a dream.

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Article Launched: 7/07/2006 01:00 AM

denver broncos

RB Cobbs eager to show he can play

By Adrian Dater Denver Post Staff Writer DenverPost.com

Cedric Cobbs is a running back looking to fulfill untapped potential. He is wearing the right uniform for such a quest.

If not the next Terrell Davis, Cobbs is hoping to become the latest in a long succession of unheralded runners who found success playing in coach Mike Shanahan's system with the Broncos.

"If you come day-in, day-out and work your butt off and do everything they want you to do, then you definitely have a great chance of making the ball team here," Cobbs said Thursday, after the first day of the Broncos' three-day minicamp at Dove Valley. "If you listen to them, then you will definitely become a better player. Here, you'll get your chance. I feel fortunate to come here and learn a lot more than I knew when I came to the NFL."

Cobbs, 25, spent last season on the Broncos' practice squad, but entered minicamp listed third on the depth chart, behind Ron Dayne and Tatum Bell. Once touted by ESPN The Magazine as the next Bo Jackson, Cobbs has struggled to get his NFL career off the ground since coming out of Arkansas in 2003.

Drafted in the fourth round by New England in 2004, Cobbs rushed 22 times for 50 yards in the Patriots' Super Bowl season, missing much of the season with a knee injury. He got hurt again in the 2005 preseason with the Patriots, and was released soon after, then signed with the Broncos as a free agent.

He enters minicamp healthy, hopeful it will stay that way, and eager to prove he can play at the highest level.

"I always knew for a fact that I had the talent to come out and be a star in the NFL," said Cobbs, 6-foot, 235 pounds. "But like they say, talent isn't everything. So, I want to put everything mentally together and do everything that they ask me to do to become the best player that I can be."

Some of the mental aspects Cobbs is trying to improve upon are his resilience in the face of adversity, and an overall self-image as a fighter.

"I've learned over the past couple of years that speed and ability and strength are not always the key," Cobbs said. "Because everybody in the NFL has a good technique. But I think I have a great attribute, of heart. I'm going to keep fighting until the last second, no matter how tired I am. I feel like I'm someone that's eager to learn. It's been an uphill battle for me, especially getting drafted and being released by another team and coming here and being on the practice squad."

Shanahan wasted little time signing Cobbs when New England cut him. The Broncos boss indicated he believes Cobbs has what it takes to be a successful reclamation project.

"Cedric is a guy that we felt very highly of coming out of Arkansas. We liked his running style," Shanahan said. "We felt very fortunate to get him on our football team when he was released. Now, he's competing for the starting jobs."

Staff writer Adrian Dater can be reached at 303-820-5454 or [email protected].

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ESPN.com: Forde

Thursday, April 20, 2006 Updated: April 22, 9:42 PM ET Santa Claus is ingrained in Cutler's upbringing

By Pat Forde ESPN.com SANTA CLAUS, Ind. -- It's the day after Easter, and you can't find a bunny anywhere in this town.

You can, however, find its namesake. Even in mid-April, St. Nick is omnipresent, keeping a relentless eye on who's naughty and nice. His face and name are on businesses, restaurants and municipal buildings. He has his own reserved parking spot at the town visitor's bureau. There are several life-size Santa figures in front of businesses -- including one climbing the chimney at the post office -- and a larger-than-life (at least 15 feet tall) monster Santa in front of the community hall.

The dogwoods are in bloom, the birds are chirping ... and you can't help but think you're hearing sleigh bells. It's Christmas here 24/7/365. The seasonal trappings that make a one-month appearance in normal towns -- wreaths, garlands, red-and-green lamp-post signs that read "Noel" and "Season's Greetings" -- stay up all year.

Somewhere along the line, after the town fathers decided in the 1850s that the Santa Claus name was worth doing, folks here decided the Santa Claus theme was worth overdoing.

"It can get on your nerves if you're not in the spirit," says resident Paula Werne.

The place is part kitsch, part cute, part creepy. (There is a low-budget horror movie to be made here. Think bad Santa with murderous elves and man-eating reindeer.) The one thing you don't think when driving around here is football town

If it sounds like it would take a Christmas miracle to go from this rural hamlet in Southern Indiana to the first round of the NFL draft, start believing. One is at hand.

For quarterback Jay Cutler, product of Santa Claus, it's a wonderful life. And Saturday figures to be one of the highlight moments of that life.

(In fact, there is a palpable Christmas-in-April vibe to this draft. Boise State offensive tackle Daryn Colledge, from North Pole, Alaska, also figures to be a first-day pick.)

The Vanderbilt quarterback will watch the draft with his family, some of his teammates and his college coaches at a restaurant in Nashville. But he's also invited his old high school coach and some other Santa Clausians down for the party. And a part of him will be back home in the rolling hills north of the Ohio River, where everybody knows the Cutler boy.

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"My wife babysat him," says the guy at the bar at the VFW Hall.

"He was just always into sports, and always a good kid," says Dee Ann Woolems, whose son once took Jay's sister to a middle-school dance.

"Him and his dad did our concrete work," says Santa Claus postmaster Marian Balbach.

"They did a garage for me," chimes in one of her customers.

Cutler knows they'll be cheering at St. Nick's Restaurant and Frosty's Grill when his name is called. They'll be cheering in living rooms on Candy Cane Lane, Arctic Circle and Mistletoe Drive, too. They'll certainly be cheering on Cutler's old street, Holly Way. And they'll be cheering at Holiday World, the booming amusement park -- with themed areas for Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving and, naturally, Christmas -- that dominates this town of 2,000.

When the moment comes, he'll give them a tip of his stocking cap.

"They should be proud," Cutler says. "That's where I'm from, and I'm happy to be from there."

Jay Cutler will be king for a day in Santa Claus. The hard part is being king longer than that.

Think of the competition the guy is up against in his hometown and surrounding county. Even though Cutler's rise up the draft board to challenge guys named Leinart and Young as the top QB prospect has made him famous nationally, he's forever trailing a universal myth and an American legend in the Spencer County hierarchy.

Santa Claus you know about. But consider this additional fact: A lad named Abraham Lincoln lived for a time on a farm located in the woods one mile from Heritage Hills High School, Cutler's alma mater. The farm site is now a national memorial, and Lincoln's mother is buried there.

Kris Kringle and Honest Abe. In terms of popularity, that tandem is tougher to beat than Florida and Tennessee in the same season.

Which Cutler very nearly did in 2005. Vanderbilt conquered the hated Volunteers for the first time in 24 years, in and of itself enough to make the season a stark-raving success for beleaguered Commodores fans. Vandy lost to Florida in double overtime, in no small part because of a lousy excessive celebration flag on a Commodores freshman wide receiver.

Those two games are significant reasons why a quarterback from Vandy is getting unprecedented NFL interest. It's also unprecedented interest in a Spencer County football player.

Fellow Heritage Hills alum (from Mariah Hill, three miles up the road from Santa Claus) was a productive tight end in the league for many years, but he also was a mid-second-round pick. Cutler plays the glamour position and is positioned to be taken in the glamour round, when Paul Tagliabue still commands the podium.

Nothing like that has ever happened to a kid from Santa Claus, Ind.

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"He's been waiting for this," Cutler's dad, Jack, says. "This is what he wants to do. I tell you, on draft day, that's going to probably be the proudest day in my life.

"It's just unreal. I love football -- played it, coached it. To see your son do this, it's a dream come true."

Actually, Cutler has been drafted before.

He was 10 the first time. For two years, Jay had nagged his dad to let him play organized tackle football -- but there was none in Santa Claus. Finally, Jack relented and drove him 40 miles each way, twice a week, to play in a league in Evansville.

An ol' country boy named Joe Sharp took one look at the Cutler kid during tryouts and picked him.

"Tryout day is like an Oklahoma land rush," Sharp said. "There are kids screamin' and hollerin' and runnin' all over. This league is an inner-city league, so you've got to be tough. I don't care if you're black, white or purple, it's different than coming from the country."

But Sharp watched the country kid from Santa Claus throw and said, "Kid, you're going to be my quarterback."

"Nobody else even bid on him," Sharp said. "Nobody else wanted him. You're talking to one of the most antisocial river rats who ever walked the earth, but I was the first man to turn Jay Cutler into a quarterback."

Cutler led that Lake View Optimist team to an undefeated season and the league championship game. He's been a quarterback ever since, among other things.

Cutler was a three-sport star at Heritage Hills, playing basketball and baseball as well. But football was where he excelled. He led the Patriots to a 15-0 record and a Class AAA state championship his senior year, feats memorialized at the top of the school's scoreboard today.

"They weren't the best team we've ever had here by any means, though their record says they were," says Bob Clayton, then and now the Heritage Hills coach. "They were just an average group of guys, with the exception of Jay."

That championship alone, from the end of the state that usually struggles to compete with the schools from Indianapolis and the old industrial towns to the north, qualified Cutler for lifetime celebrity status in a small town smitten by sports.

"We're born and bred to love football and basketball around here from the day we pop out of the womb," says Amy Hoffman, bartender at the VFW Hall. "That's just the way it is."

But being a high school star in Santa Claus doesn't exactly guarantee your future. Cutler had to go scrambling to find a scholarship from a Division I-A school.

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Jack Cutler and the Heritage Hills athletic director, Jay Burch, put together a highlight tape and began carpet- bombing colleges with it.

"Jay always wanted to play in the SEC, so I initially sent them to all the schools in the SEC -- except Vanderbilt," Jack says.

Illinois was the first BCS conference school to show interest, in the fall of Cutler's senior year. He decided fairly quickly to join the Illini and spurned overtures from Purdue, Duke, Maryland and others.

But Jay jumped immediately from that state title run in football to playing basketball, and he didn't get a chance to make a campus visit until late December. By then, according to Jack Cutler, Illinois coach Ron Turner was backpedaling. He rescinded the scholarship offer to Cutler and took a kid from the West Coast instead -- a kid nobody in the NFL is interested in today.

"It's not right," Jack Cutler says. "I still have a bitter taste in my mouth over that."

Suddenly, Jay entered the final few weeks of recruiting without a clue where he'd go. Bridges were burned with some schools. The SEC yawned in Cutler's direction.

"Let's send a tape to Vanderbilt," said Burch, the athletic director.

The Commodores were immediately interested. In the wrong guy.

"When I called, they didn't know who I was," Cutler says. "They were watching the wrong game film. They thought I was a tight end from Northern Indiana."

Once the mistaken identity was cleared up and they saw tape of the quarterback from Southern Indiana, Vandy got excited all over again. They offered. Cutler accepted.

"And the rest is history," Jack Cutler says.

Not so fast. Going to Vandy is by no means the expressway to the NFL. For Cutler's first few years, it was an expressway to the training room, as he took a fearful beating in the pocket but never crumbled.

"Around here we just sort of prayed every Saturday that he'd survive the game," Clayton says. "To be the starting quarterback there for four years and come out of it alive and very healthy is a small miracle. That's a tribute to his toughness."

Toughness came early in Santa Claus. Jack Cutler has been a state trooper for 25 years, but he's been pouring concrete on the side for longer than that. At age 12, when most kids had no idea what work means, Jay was doing manual labor alongside his dad.

"It taught me about hard work and what it took to do a job right," Cutler says.

By Jack's estimation, the Cutler family had done 90 percent of the concrete work at one point in the upper-middle-class Christmas Lake Village subdivision, the primary neighborhood in town.

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So Jay's reaction was natural when he was a sophomore at Vandy and saw a concrete crew losing the sidewalk they were pouring. It was firming up before they'd gotten it fully shaped, so Cutler grabbed a trowel and helped them edge it up.

"It only took 15 minutes," he says, modestly.

It's also 15 minutes more than most college quarterbacks would have volunteered to a construction crew in need. But those are the kind of boys they raise in Santa Claus, Ind.

Jay Cutler's 15 minutes of NFL draft fame are now approaching, though not fast enough for the anxious quarterback's taste. Friday night will be like Christmas Eve. And Saturday? It'll be like Christmas Day -- which is to say, another normal day in Santa Claus, Ind.

Pat Forde is a senior writer for ESPN.com. He can be reached at [email protected].

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/sports_columnists/article/0,1299,DRMN_83_4675654,00.html Legwold: Cutler's grit made him a sensible pick

May 5, 2006

There are certain givens in Southeastern Conference football.

Alabama and Auburn will force people to choose sides. Florida and Georgia will divide the hotels in Jacksonville, Fla., for the Cocktail Party. And Vanderbilt never, ever, ever beats Tennessee.

Well, almost never, anyway.

So, connect all the dots - the history, the traditions and the zealous followers of SEC football - and that's why Jay Cutler was the 11th pick of the NFL draft.

It's why Broncos coach Mike Shanahan looked at all there was to see of the quarterbacks in this year's draft and proclaimed Cutler the best of the bunch.

That's because Cutler played quarterback at Vanderbilt. Every autumn weekend, his team, one outfitted by a small, private, academically stringent university, did its business in the heart of a league that pushes football toward theology.

So, that said, the Commodores don't win much.

And, those who used Cutler's career record as a starter as a predraft criticism of his play - and there were plenty jotting down that winning percentage - simply don't have an understanding of what football is like in the SEC.

Because on Nov. 19, Cutler pushed, prodded and yanked the Commodores as far as his right arm would carry them.

And it carried them to a 28-24 victory over the Volunteers in front of 107,487 folks in Tennessee's Neyland Stadium, most of whom had pulled the orange gear out of the closet only to sit in rather stunned silence when Cutler and the lads from Nashville turned the trick.

Cutler drove Vanderbilt 63 yards in only three plays, capping it with a 5-yard touchdown pass that left a vapor trail to freshman receiver Earl Bennett with 1 minute, 11 seconds remaining in the game.

It was the first time since 1982 that Vanderbilt had defeated Tennessee at all, the first time since 1975 the Commodores did it in Knoxville.

So when the chattering types on the tube kept wondering exactly how Cutler had elevated himself into discussions that previously involved only and , they merely needed to look at that November game for an answer.

Young played on a Texas team with five other players who were drafted last weekend, as well as three who were selected in the 2005 draft that included Cedric Benson, who won the 2004 Doak Walker Award as the nation's best running back.

Leinart played on a Southern California team that had 10 other players selected last weekend and five the previous year. The Trojans' 2006 draftees included a Heisman winner (running back ), an All-American at guard (Deuce Lutui) and a two- time 1,000-yard rusher (LenDale White).

Cutler was the only Commodores player drafted last weekend, and only two Vanderbilt players were selected in 2005 - defensive end

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Jovan Haye and offensive lineman Justin Geisinger. Both were selected in the sixth round and they were the first Vanderbilt players drafted since 2001.

Despite the criticisms, Cutler knows what he did at Vanderbilt.

"That Tennessee game was big," he said. "But I think the last three games before that were big as well, but that was kind of a decisive game. . . . You look at it, I don't know if that changed people's minds or not."

And when the scouts were looking in earnest, as the 2005 season came down the stretch, Cutler became the first Vanderbilt quarterback to throw for more than 300 yards in four consecutive games.

In road games at South Carolina, Florida and Tennessee among those final four games, he threw for 339 yards, 361 (and four touchdowns) and 315 (and three touchdowns), the latter in the win against the Volunteers.

Toss in a home win over Kentucky with 395 passing yards and five touchdowns, and you have the makings of a guy getting the NFL's attention at the right time. Three of those games might have been Vandy losses, but one was in overtime and all three by seven or less.

"And you flip that Florida Gators film on and he put Vanderbilt on his back, (then) went to Tennessee and beat them there . . . ," Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach said. "It was a showcase of talent. . . . Without him, I'm not sure what those scores would be, but they wouldn't have looked anything like they did. People may have to see what that offense looks like when he's gone to appreciate what it looked like with him in it."

Also, Cutler was hit, harassed and hounded in and out of the pocket far more than Young and Leinart could have possibly imagined. Yet, Cutler didn't miss a game in his career.

"I took some shots . . . ," Cutler said. "But I tried to stay in the weight room; I think that's how I stayed healthy."

Still, make no mistake, playing quarterback for the Broncos in the post-Elway era tends to be a difficult proposition - it always will be as long as those who saw Elway play still sit in the stands on Sundays.

And expectations already are running in the fast lane simply because the Broncos moved up to take Cutler, even though he has yet to do anything with the team's jersey, other than hold it for photos.

He'll need poise in the years to come. He'll need help from those both inside and outside the team's walls to keep his head level enough to handle it all.

But rising to a challenge?

Well, he already has that covered.

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Printed from www.denverbroncos.com

Sunday, April 23, 2006 Ron Dayne: Refreshed and Ready By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- If you squinted your eyes during overtime of the Broncos-Cowboys game last November as Ron Dayne dashed upfield with what turned out to be a game- clinching 55-yard run, it was easy to get lost in a flashback. One might have needed a reminder that the year was 2005, not 2000; that the holiday was Thanksgiving, not New Year's Day, and that the venue was Texas Stadium, not the Rose Bowl.

It all looked so familiar to one who could so easily recall the days when Dayne indelibly etched his name onto the tablets of history. A freight train of a back, sprinting furiously into open territory, leaving enemy defenders sprinting desperately to catch up. In the background just a few yards from Dayne was a vision of giddy tumult -- a sideline filled with players, coaches and support staffers engulfed in an eruption of joy.

Was it the Denver Broncos he was carrying? Was it the Wisconsin Badgers?

It was hard to tell the difference.

In that holiday moment, Dayne had recaptured the magic of his four years at Wisconsin, when he became the all-time leading rusher in Division I-A annals with 6,397 yards, when he was meeting or surpassing the standards set by such collegiate luminaries as , Archie Griffin and .

But all that run represented was one play in a season that saw him play in 10 of 16 games and gain 270 yards on 53 carries -- an average of 5.1 yards a rush. The per-carry pace is a strong one, but he never had more carries than the 13 he notched in the regular-season finale at San Diego.

But two of his 53 runs were among the most important of the season -- the sprint at Dallas and a fourth-down, last-possession run in Week 2 against the Chargers to set up Jason Elam's game-winning field goal. With fairly limited opportunities and no starts, Dayne still managed to be exactly what he seemed projected to be when he was a 2000 first-round pick -- a difference- making player.

Now he knows that he needs to prove it over a game. His career high of 25 carries came over five years ago, on Oct. 29, 2000 against the .

"I'm still going to have to prove myself, get out there and play and see if I can play the whole game," Dayne said. "The times I was getting in were at the end of the game, and I could handle that."

But he knows he could handle more. He has 638 carries in 72 professional regular-season games -- an average of 8.9 rushes per game. Four-hundred and eight of those came in the first two seasons of his career, giving him just 230 rushes in the last four years -- and only 105 in the last three.

By those numbers, Dayne's legs would seem to present a freshness that is fairly unusual to a back entering his seventh professional season.

"I feel like I haven't played football in five or six years," Dayne said. "After the season (at Wisconsin), you'd be beat down. In college, (I would say) 'Coach, I don't know if I'm going to do spring ball because I'm still kind of tired.'

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"Now, I'm ready to go and ready to run. I'm not a distance runner, but any sprints and things like that I can do -- and do it well."

And he hope that includes multiple sprints during the season to come. Whether his carry tally is at 10, 20 or more per game, Dayne simply wants to contribute.

"It's good for me. Whatever it takes for me to win," Dayne said. "If it takes for me to carry it 20 (times) just like back in the day when I was in school, (that's fine). Someone told me I had 50 carries in a game. I guess I had to do it for us to win. I didn't even notice."

"Just give it to me and I'll keep on running; I'm not going to let you down."

He certainly didn't last year when the Broncos gave him the opportunity to seal two of their most vital wins of the season. His hopes for 2006 are simple -- to gain more chances to touch the football, more opportunities to make game-altering sprints. Such significant carries were so familiar to him at Wisconsin, as he maximized the frequency with which his number was called in the huddle. Now he hopes 2006 brings the same kind of glorious glimpse that Thanksgiving Day witnessed last year.

"Hopefully I can get 20 carries now, maybe even more," he said, "and just get used to carrying the ball so many times."

Just like he did seven years ago.

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DailyCamera

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/broncos/article/0,1713,BDC_2453_4885231,00.html Dumervil believes he'll size up just fine

Rookie defensive lineman undersized at 5-11, 250 pounds

By Ryan Thorburn, Camera Sports Writer August 1, 2006

ENGLEWOOD — Mike Shanahan was actually talking about arm strength when he mentioned the names and Brian Griese in the same sentence a few years ago.

The seemingly innocent comment by the head coach didn't do Griese any favors during his failed attempt to play quarterback in John Elway's shadow.

Broncos defensive coordinator Larry Coyer can only hope that things turn out better for Elvis Dumervil in Denver after comparing him to standout Dwight Freeney before training camp.

"He's little," Coyer said. "But at the Pro Bowl we looked at Freeney and then we looked at Dumervil. Same guy."

Not many NFL teams are willing to play small ball. The Broncos have demonstrated a willingness to draft talented players that don't measure up physically to the standards most scouts use.

In 2005, rookie cornerback Darrent Williams — listed at 5-foot-8 and 188 pounds on the latest roster — was selected in the second round and made Shanahan look smart. His nine starts for the franchise were the most by a rookie at the position since Louis Wright (1975), and only injuries prevented Williams, currently the starter opposite Champ Bailey, from spending more time on the field.

This year the Broncos have big plans for the undersized Dumervil. At 5-foot-11 and 250 pounds, he would be considered a large man in most workplace environments.

But standing next to Gerard Warren (6-4, 325) and Courtney Brown (6-4, 285) on the sideline, Dumervil looks more like an accountant than a defensive lineman.

"I think it's an advantage for me," Dumervil said. "I've got leverage and long arms and I'm a lot quicker. It's difficult for big linemen to come down to my level and try to block me. I think it's an advantage."

Freeney, listed at 6-1 and 268 pounds, has tallied 51 sacks in four seasons at defensive end. He took the quarterback down 16 times in 2004. The Broncos had 28 sacks as a team in 2005.

"Dwight Freeney is a great player," Dumervil said when asked about Coyer's compliment. "Considering I haven't taken a snap of football in a real live game ... I don't want to go into that comparison."

Despite leading the NCAA with 20 sacks as a senior at Louisville, Dumervil is best remembered nationally as the player ex- Virginia Tech quarterback Marcus Vick cleaned his cleats on in a bowl game.

"I hit him a couple times," Dumervil said with a smile. "That's why he stomped on my leg."

Originally, it appeared Dumervil would be known as the guy Denver drafted to replace Trevor Pryce. But through four days of training camp it looks like that job will be taken over by a committee consisting of Ebenezer Ekuban, Kenard Lang and perhaps Corey Jackson.

Coyer thinks Dumervil will have more success inside at defensive tackle than he would going up against offensive tackles with size like his teammates George Foster (6-5, 338) and Matt Lepsis (6-4, 290).

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"It kind of feels good," Dumervil said of the faith the coaching staff has shown in his abilities at this early stage of his career. "You can go home at night and it makes you want to work harder. You can't take nothing for granted. It's a job out here and the guys depend on me to come in and play my role and not be a rookie."

It sounds like if Dumervil did live up to the Dove Valley hype, Coyer wouldn't even want the credit.

"Dumervil is a natural pass-rusher," Coyer said. "He has a feel. He knows how to move his body, how to escape. You can't teach what he's got."

Copyright 2006, DailyCamera. All Rights Reserved.

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4896506,00.html Danger afield for Broncos Elam

Broncos' Elam had a few tense moments thrown his way during the offseason

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News August 5, 2006

His wife has jokingly referred to him as Indiana Jones. But while a certain local NFL kicker wears many hats (helmets?), a fedora may not be one of them.

Jason Elam. Jason Bourne. That's more like it.

Globetrotting the world, escaping danger.

Elam's offseason away from the Broncos was such he might as well have been the title character in one of those Matt Damon spy- thriller movies.

Traveling to the Gaza Strip. Experiencing the kinds of concussions not found on the football field but from live bombs only hundreds of feet away. Watching militants with AK-47s sprint past, gearing for battle. Staying just a stone's throw from a missile strike from an Apache helicopter.

So what else to do for an encore after those narrow escapes from a volatile area of the world, but pilot an old Korean War-era airplane through the blue skies over Alaska and experience engine failure.

Did we mention a stare-down with a giant brown bear as the aircraft barely averted splashdown?

And there were those the past few months who thought Ben Roethlisberger was taking chances without a motorcycle helmet.

"I'm getting shot at and bombed, and grizzly bears are after me. Yeah, I usually don't do all that stuff," Elam said with a smile. "But it was an interesting offseason."

And his most dangerous.

"By far," he said. "And it wasn't meant to be."

It all started innocently enough in March, when Elam went on a church trip to Israel. As the vacation was winding down, he decided to send his family home and stick around for a mission to deliver food and supplies to the disenfranchised in poor, overcrowded refugee camps in the Gaza Strip.

For the relief effort, Elam met Tom Doyle, a longtime friend based in Colorado Springs who works for E3 Partners, which performs evangelical, church planting and relief work around the globe, and an associate, Nawaz Lalani. Doyle was in contact with the pastor of the only Baptist church in Gaza, and arrangements had been made in advance.

The word on the street was that there had been no violence in the area for weeks. And the reconnaissance was necessary, given Elam's high profile as an player and the fact that, while there are missionaries who are used to serving in war-torn areas, Elam wasn't.

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Doyle had been to the area probably 25 times, including eight times on missions within a four-year period.

But he feared this time, should anything go astray, "This could be an international incident."

Feeling the booms

The group was given the all- clear at the Israeli and Palestinian checkpoints, though, so any worries subsided. And the pastor they were headed to see also told them there had been no violent activity for weeks.

The three proceeded to "No Man's Land," a tunnel leading into Gaza, where a representative of the church was expected to be waiting.

Bombing began about midway through their walk through the passageway.

"Big booms. I mean, you feel them in your gut," Elam recalled. "Windows are rattling and being blown out. So we get to the other side and they're like, 'Get in the car! Get in the car!' "

As the group was being whisked to the pastor's house in the center of the city, away from the border violence, Palestinian gunmen with masks - Hamas, probably Islamic Jihad - raced past the vehicle.

"I'm thinking, 'What have we gotten ourselves into?' " Elam said.

Doyle frantically was making and receiving phone calls from friends as the vehicle sped away.

It was only then that he learned there had been an episode in which an Israeli soldier was killed, and retaliatory warning strikes were in full force, springing the Palestinian militant groups into action.

"I'm just thinking, 'I've done the stupidest thing in my life,' " recalled Doyle, who one time led chapel services for the Broncos. "I've got Jason Elam in here and this is terrible. It's a conflict. It's a war. So we were just praying."

The car made it to the pastor's house about 10 miles from the border, but the scenes on the way still are etched in Elam's mind.

"Everybody was burning stuff in the streets, American and Israeli flags, and shouting stuff in Arabic," he said. "I don't know what they were saying, but it didn't sound friendly."

The bombings wouldn't cease for 48 hours. Every three minutes, another blast came and went.

The blasts were violent, too, while the three sat in the pastor's house.

"They would scooch your chair right back," Elam said.

The group ventured to the church the night after they arrived, even with the soundtrack of violence playing in the background. Elam played soccer with Palestinian children and spoke to them about his faith in Christ, while the children watched in rapt attention.

"And in the background I could hear bombs going off," Doyle said. "Jason was so into what he's saying, he's not hearing them."

After three days of this drama, Elam and Doyle tried to sleep at the pastor's house, which was situated next to a mosque in the heart of Gaza City. They couldn't help but discuss the events in which they'd become entangled.

A trip to Jordan was scheduled the next day to depart the area, and both of them were wired, as the bombs rattled their nerves. They decided to each take a sleeping pill to try to get through the night.

When they awoke the next morning, Elam was puzzled to find his bed situated about a foot and a half from the wall it had been positioned against. He and Doyle headed to the breakfast table, and the pastor asked them if they were aware of what

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had happened.

They weren't. Both had slept through a missile strike only 1 1/2 blocks away. The Apache helicopter blew up the home of the person who had been identified as the assailant in the Israeli soldier's death.

A tour of the area uncovered a 15-foot crater at the home the missile had hit. At another point on the trip, Elam hid with his camera across from the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority and clicked off pictures of snipers poised for action.

After about two days, it was deemed safe to leave the area.

"Jason said that, being a kicker, your prayer life is always good, and I can imagine, with 60,000 people in the stadium and you've got to kick this thing 40 yards to win or lose. People go home ecstatic or depressed," Doyle said.

A different perspective

But the experience in Gaza apparently gave Elam a whole new perspective.

"They don't know what tomorrow holds," Doyle said Elam told him while they were there.

At least Elam didn't try to fly on this particular trip.

"Not in Israel," he said. "I'd get shot down."

Elam has piloted an airplane under a variety of circumstances, if not that particular one.

Certified for 15 years and with 1,500 hours of flight experience, he has taken numerous backcountry flights, landing on dirt strips and beaches and navigating mountainous terrain across the country.

But he never had lost an engine, until about five weeks after his Middle East experience.

Elam, also an avid outdoorsman, often makes forays up north to enjoy the splendor of the Alaskan wilderness. He was on another one of those trips in May.

All week, he had been "just dorking around" Anchorage and the surrounding area, flying a single-engine, high-wing 1957 Piper Pacer known as a "taildragger" because of its unique three- wheeled landing gear configuration. He owns a similar plane, a DeHaviland Beaver, made that same year.

The final day of the trip, a friend suggested Elam make one final flight, to the other side of the Cook Inlet, part of the Aleutian Range, to check out a cabin, owned by an acquaintance, for bear hunters in the area.

There was plenty of time to make the excursion and still catch a scheduled red-eye flight back home. And since a traveling companion, Mike McNeill, was interested in taking some pictures, Elam thought it might be an entertaining diversion.

So off they went. Their final destination was, in Elam's words, "in the middle of nowhere," about an hour's flight away.

They took off from Soldotna, on the banks of the Kenai River, near Anchorage. The route crossed Beluga Point and took them south, over myriad oil and gas platforms. McNeill and Elam were told that when they were getting close to the lodge, a couple of islands would become visible, followed by a river and glacier.

It was about that point that the weather began to turn.

Turbulent times

A storm front Elam thought he could beat came in quicker than expected. The plane began experiencing moderate to serve turbulence. The whitecaps in the ocean raged.

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As Elam recalled, "I started thinking, 'This isn't fun.' "

Also that it would be best to turn back.

But just then, the hunting cabin came into view. It had a distinctive green roof, so there was no doubt this was the one they were seeking.

Elam dropped the plane down and marked the coordinates on the map, in case he ever wanted to return. McNeill, in the passenger seat, was taking pictures. Outside, as they approached the base of Mount Iliamna, the conditions weren't improving.

"It was getting nasty, but right then, we saw a big, big brown bear, a grizzly bear, right on the beach just walking around," Elam said.

The plan was to circle around for a Kodak moment. The plane dropped from about 700 feet to 300 feet but needed more throttle. Elam tried to get some, to no avail.

"It just started spitting," he remembered.

He pushed the throttle all the way forward. Nothing again.

He pumped the throttle. Same response.

"I'm coming down," Elam thought to himself.

"I'm watching the bear as we're going across the beach," added McNeill, also a pilot and owner of an outfitting business in Jackson Hole, Wyo., who has known Elam for about a decade. "And all of a sudden, I look over and I'm like, 'Jace, we don't want to put it down here.' "

McNeill's camera was flung into the back seat as he noticed Elam going through emergency procedures. The tanks were flipped in an effort to draw fuel. The fuel-air mixture was checked to make sure it wasn't too rich.

The magnetos, part of the ignition system, were double- checked. There was no panic, but the plane wasn't going to stay in the air long. The only question was where to land.

Boulders and driftwood filled the nearby beach, which, at about a 45-degree angle and more mud than sand, complicated matters. The tides were huge.

"There was one little spot that I had," Elam said of his only option to bring the plane down safely without a water landing.

A couple-hundred-foot strip, 10 to 15 yards wide, was it, and there was only about 10 seconds to pull the flaps in and make it happen. The left wing was only about a foot off the water as the plane set down; the hope being that the mud would suck the tail wing down and stop the momentum.

It worked. The plane sharply snapped to the right as it hit the ground.

"It came to just an instant stop in the sand," McNeill said.

And nearly on that bear they had eyed.

"So we're stopped and the bear's right there," Elam said. "I mean literally right off our wingtip. So we couldn't get out of the airplane."

The engine remained dead. The radio was worthless because of the remote area. They wouldn't have been stranded long, because their friend in Anchorage knew their destination, but, regardless, McNeill turned to Elam with some gallows humor.

"I said if the bear wants us, he's going to have to eat through the crunchy stuff before he gets to the soft, cushy stuff inside."

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Getting off the ground

About 10 minutes passed and the engine inexplicably revved back up. The bear shot back along the tree line. And while, at the time, Elam had no explanation as to why the plane responded, it was time to go.

Full throttle this time got the tail wheel out of the goop. A huge piece of driftwood barely missed the propeller as the plane took off. Elam kept within range of oil rigs as he climbed back to 5,000 feet for the return flight, just in case the plane's engine failed again. But the two made it back unscathed.

Elam later found out that a problem with a gasket in the carburetor was the root cause of his first-ever engine failure. He flew the same plane again last month.

McNeill said the episode happened too fast and Elam is too accomplished a pilot for nerves to have gotten involved. Elam added that everything happened so fast, all he could do was react.

"There's certain people where you go, 'Are we going to be in trouble?' And certain people you want to be in an airplane with, and he's one of them," McNeill said.

Had the plane lost power at the apex of its altitude, it could have coasted a long way but likely wouldn't have reached the beach.

"I might have had to set it down in the ocean, which I can walk away from it, but it's going to destroy the airplane and be really cold," Elam said.

McNeill said that 20 minutes before the plane was forced to land, it was soaring above cliffs and trees with no place for it to be set down.

"You're relieved," Elam's buddy said. "But you're also thankful that no one got hurt."

That sentiment just about sums up Elam's entire offseason.

Perhaps the plan next year will tone things down a bit, maybe a nice trip to the Bahamas, soaking up rays on a beach.

It would placate his nervous wife, who wasn't happy with Elam's adventures the past few months, and give them quality time with their four children.

"We're going to Disneyland," Elam joked about his future plans.

Better stay off Space Mountain.

[email protected]

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4759412,00.html Eslinger a perfect fit for Broncos

Rookie center won Outland Trophy and Rimington Award

By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News June 8, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - has the coveted gold jacket in his closet, the one that comes with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame after his career as a Houston Oilers guard.

So it was significant as he watched Greg Eslinger stroll by at the NFL scouting combine inside Indianapolis' RCA Dome in February and said:

"That is a ready-to-go Denver Bronco."

Almost four months later, Eslinger is, indeed, a Denver Broncos player. In fact, he is likely the most decorated college player the Broncos have drafted since Floyd Little, a three-time consensus All-America running back at Syracuse University, in 1967.

"He's definitely our kind of guy," Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said.

While centers don't often see their names in the big letters on the NFL's marquee, Eslinger still compiled one of the most impressive lists of accolades of any player available in this year's draft.

He was selected to every All-America team this past season and won the Outland Trophy as the nation's best interior lineman and the Rimington Award as the best center. Eslinger, who started 50 consecutive games at the University of Minnesota, was the first true center to win the Outland since himself in 1981 and '82.

"I've been extremely lucky," Eslinger said. "I always say football is like standing in the middle of a highway - you never know when you're going to get hit. Sooner or later, everyone goes down.

"I was just lucky enough to stay clear and be somewhere where I had a chance to play a lot."

At 6-foot-3 1/8 and 292 pounds, Eslinger wasn't quite as big as some of the other center prospects in the draft. And having played in the Gophers' zone rushing attack - a lineman often blocks an area rather than specific players - Eslinger was coming from a system that required the kind of movement skills many NFL teams don't seek in an age when defensive tackles routinely tip the scales at 340 pounds or more.

The Gophers often had their center "pull," a difficult proposition to snap the ball and be quick enough to get out of the traffic in the middle of the field to lead the running back into the hole.

It is why, even with Eslinger's list of achievements and work ethic - Minnesota offensive line coach Gordy Shaw was brought to tears when it was announced Eslinger had won the Outland - he was still only the fifth center selected in the draft this year.

And even with a skill set that fits snugly into what the Broncos do on offense, Denver still waited until the 198th pick overall to grab him.

"Sure, those accolades were great in college," Eslinger said. "But some teams in the NFL may not have liked my abilities so much for their type of offense. Some teams probably had me relatively high on the board and some teams might not have had me on the board at all.

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"But I didn't put too much thought into it, period. Of course everybody wants to be a high pick, or drafted a little higher than they were. But I figured, 'Hey, whatever happens, happens, I just want my shot at the NFL.' I have that shot, so now you just focus on trying to fulfill your goals."

He also has a career road map to follow with the Broncos. The trailblazer was Tom Nalen, an accomplished, yet somewhat undersized, center (6-3, 286) when he entered the 1994 draft from Boston College.

The Broncos selected Nalen in the seventh round of Dan Reeves' last draft (218th overall) with the team. Nalen is entering his 13th season and has been chosen to five Pro Bowls in his career, the most of any offensive lineman in Broncos history.

The hard-nosed Nalen also has anchored the Broncos' lighter, movement-heavy line since he became the starter in 1995 and signed a three- year extension with the team in March that included a $3 million signing bonus.

"I've watched him a long time . . . great, great player, something special, I'm lucky to have a chance to work with him every day," Eslinger said. "He's really a complete package. He's mentally strong, he's a technician and a real powerful guy. I'm just trying to take what he does and try to incorporate it into what I do in as many ways as possible. I plan to ask him a whole array of questions."

Questions obviously surrounded Eslinger during his senior year of high school in Bismarck, N.D., when Minnesota was the only Division I-A school to offer him a scholarship. He repaid the Gophers, never missing a game at Minnesota and becoming only the third player in the program's history to win the Outland.

As a result, Eslinger said he has promised he will "never cheat myself" on a football field. No matter where that field might be.

"I'm not quite sure of what they expect of me here," Eslinger said. "All you can do is do the work, learn as much as possible and do whatever you can to help in any way you can. That's my list at this point, and we'll go from there."

[email protected] or 303-892-2359

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Tuesday, July 11, 2006 Everett: Up to Speed By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- All Tyler Everett could do in his first month as a Bronco was wait -- which is precisely what he had to do on draft weekend as the picks ran by without his name being called.

Maybe it was because the former Ohio State standout moved from safety to cornerback as a senior, leaving Everett to reflect that he was "kind of out of position." His acquiescence to a move, though, reflected positively on his football character.

"I did it to help the team out a little bit," he said. "Sometimes you have to sacrifice things, and that's the sacrifice I made."

Or maybe it was because he was surrounded by a cosmos of college stars -- 2006 first-day picks A.J. Hawk, Donte Whitner, Bobby Carpenter, Ashton Youboty and Anthony Schlegel, and other high draft picks such as Will Smith and Chris Gamble (both 2004 first-round picks) and 2003 second-round pick Mike Doss. Whatever the reason, Everett, in spite of being a Buckeyes starter as a senior, found himself overlooked.

"I was a little bit surprised seeing guys that I played against -- that I thought I was better than -- going before me," Everett said.

Just hours after the conclusion of the NFL Draft, he'd signed with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent, and like all of his fellow undrafted signees, Everett was graded as draft-worthy on the team's board.

"We feel like Tyler Everett was a sleeper that went undrafted," General Manager Ted Sundquist said. "He was in a situation where he was stuck behind Mike Doss and was lost in the shuffle alongside Whitner."

But while his fellow rookies could take part in the team's organized team activities that began on May 16, Everett had to remain back in Columbus, Ohio, where school remained in session.

Aside from the three-day mini-camp, rookies can't report to their teams until the ongoing academic term ends. The same rule kept Roc Alexander from some OTAs in 2004 and sidelined Brandon Browner until the July mini-camp last year.

"I told my mother and father every day, 'Sometimes I wish I could be done with school early, graduate in three years,'" Everett said, "but it's a rule, so you have to follow it."

But it didn't mean he had to separate himself from his future profession entirely as he wrapped up academic matters two time zones away. He came to Denver for a physical and left with what he termed a "rough draft" of the team's playbook, allowing him to begin studying the system in which he would soon be immersed.

"Any questions I had, I called Coach Slow (defensive backs coach Bob Slowik) or his son Ryan, and then when I got out here, they gave me the full book," Everett said. "Since I got it two weeks ago, I've been in it every day, studying."

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But not exclusively.

"You can't do too much studying, because you'd be overwhelmed. I study it about a half-hour or an hour a day, when I'm at home," he said. "It's almost like a person working for a big business, they have to go over their daily things, and that's what I do daily -- go over the playbook, so I can catch myself up."

The recently completed minicamp offered a chance for Everett to veer back from the backroads of rookie orientation and into more speedy surroundings, and he noted that the work last week got him "somewhat" caught up.

"A lot of people are at the same level as me (in athletic ability); some are a little better, but hard work will get me there," he said. "The guys have accepted me well and answered any questions I have, so I feel pretty comfortable.

"There are things that (happen on the field) that are new and I haven't seen. I saw them in the playbook, but if I don't know what they actually are, how do I know what's right or wrong? They're still helping me along, but I'm catching up pretty easily."

As if making the team wasn't enough motivation, his absence through the OTAs offered him a little extra.

"Just knowing that the guys were out here working and I'm still in school -- it made me feel like I owed them something when I got here," Everett said. "When I got here, I just worked hard to show them that I'm not coming in here lazy because I've been off."

And when training camp dawns, Everett will have the chance to show that his lack of a draft status and his forced absence from offseason practices aren't a detriment.

"I may have come in as a free agent, but who knows? I may play longer in the NFL than some of those guys that went (in the) first (or) second round," he said.

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Publish Date: 7/31/2006

Foxworth moving on Cornerback is not dwelling on his play in AFC title game

By Bill Wilson The Daily Times-Call

ENGLEWOOD — As he saw the ball tumble from teammate Javon Walker’s hands, Denver Broncos cornerback Domonique Foxworth sprung to his feet and pumped his fist.

It was the morning session of Broncos training camp Sunday. During seven-on-seven

drills, Walker had cut in front of Foxworth on a post route, gained a position advantage and jumped for the ball.

As Walker tried to pull the pass in, his hands tangled with Foxworth’s forearm, causing the ball to tumble to the ground.

Targeted for being vulnerable in the Broncos loss to Pittsburgh in the AFC championship last season, and fighting a heated battle with Darrent Williams for a starting spot opposite all-pro Champ Bailey, Foxworth was waiting to make some noise in training camp.

Four days in, it happened.

“It’s taken me awhile to get started,” he said. “But I had a pretty great morning.”

Foxworth will have to continue to make such plays in order to rinse the bad memories the Broncos have of him after last year’s big loss. In that game, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger feasted on the then-rookie.

The receiver Foxworth mostly covered, Cedrick Wilson, finished the day with a game-most five catches for 92 yards and a touchdown.

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What most fans don’t know, however, is defensive coordinator Larry Coyer absolved Foxworth after reviewing tape in the days following the loss.

“We exposed Foxworth maybe a little bit,” Coyer said. “I’m not trying to take any heat off Fox, I just think it’s a bad rap. I think it’s my fault. I needed to adjust better.”

Coyer entered the game planning to blitz Pittsburgh’s four-receiver set. When the Steelers showed they could block it, it left Coyer and the Broncos scrambling. Foxworth was the victim.

“That kid is a good, smart, tough football player,” Coyer said. “I would hate to ever think (he blamed himself). He’s too damn good.”

Foxworth said he’s put the game out of his mind, and he doesn’t appear to be carrying any guilt.

“To the outside eye, it may look like I should be down on myself, but I’m not,” Foxworth said. “I was doing what I was supposed to do for the most part.

“Obviously, I could have made a few more plays, but sometimes people are just better than you on a particular day.”

Escaping blame didn’t keep Foxworth from using the Pittsburgh loss as motivation this offseason, however. He said he’s embraced the challenge of reading offenses better in order to get an idea of what’s coming on the next play.

“It’s about understanding what the offense is trying to do depending on your defense,” he said. “You can narrow down the plays so much.”

His teammates have noticed an improvement.

“He looked good,” Bailey said. “One thing about these guys is they get better every day. You watch them grow and grow, and you think they can’t get much better.

“But these guys keep improving and improving and they are doing everything we ask them to do.”

Although Foxworth is hitting his stride, it appears he is a few notches below Williams for the starting spot. But if he loses the battle, Foxworth’s role will be more significant than that of most backups.

He will likely rotate with Williams while playing in nickel packages. If the Broncos decide to increase Williams’ role in the return game, Foxworth’s workload could become even larger.

“Darrent and I have talked about it, and we don’t see it as much of a battle,” Foxworth said. “We’re both going to make plays this year. I can promise you that.”

Bill Wilson can be reached at [email protected].

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Friday, March 10, 2006 You Should Know ... Corey Jackson By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Tight ends aren't the only football players for whom a basketball background can prove valuable.

Corey Jackson's presence on the Broncos' roster right now is evidence of that. At the University of Nevada, he led the Western Athletic Conference in rebounding as a senior, but following that 2001-02 campaign, he looked for something more.

"What happened was that he had a year of eligibility left," Broncos defensive line/tackles coach Andre Patterson said. "He was done with basketball, he had one year left, so he had that redshirt year left, walked into the football coach's (Chris Tormey's) office in Nevada and said, 'I want to try football.' He's a good-looking guy, and they tried to find him a home and a place to play. That's how it all started."

His action was limited that year.

"He only played one year of college football -- 12 plays," Patterson said. "Six plays at tight end and six plays at defensive end."

But the word was out. NFL teams had him scouted, taking interest in a 6-foot-7, 240-pounder with quickness and raw ability. But it was Patterson, then about to begin a two-year stint with the Cleveland Browns, who was in the most vigorous pursuit.

"A friend of mine was the offensive coordinator there, and he called me and said, 'Hey, we've got this guy. I don't know if he can play in the NFL, but he's 6-foot-7, and his numbers were through the roof,'" Patterson recalled. "I flew down to Nevada and worked him out, and I liked his athleticism, even though he didn't have a clue about football. So after the draft, I convinced the people in Cleveland to sign him as a free agent."

Jackson's stay in Cleveland included a 2004 sojourn to the Frankfurt Galaxy of the NFL Europe League, with whom he earned the league's defensive player of the year award. The Broncos added him to their practice squad last September after the Browns waived him.

Patterson's recommendation had much to do with Jackson's Mile High arrival.

"When I came to Denver, he was one of the guys I brought up," Patterson said. "(The Browns) were going to the 3-4 (alignment); this guy is 6-foot-7 (and) it's going to be tough for him to make the adjustment to be a defensive end, so when they released him, we were ready to sign him, so we signed him to the practice squad and he did an outstanding job for us on the practice squad."

Added General Manager Ted Sundquist: "(Jackson is) big, long, extremely quick and rangy. He's got the body to play the power game but also has the speed, quickness and length to come off the edge and be an effective pass rusher, so he's kind of a combo guy. He's not just a run defender or a pass rusher; he's got the ability to do both."

If he can, it will provide a bonus boost to a defensive line that has already seen both Courtney Brown and John Engelberger retained in recent weeks. And to be certain, it doesn't matter whether additional production comes from a big-name free-agent acquisition, a high draft pick or a player who worked his way up the roster? After all, the Broncos have found such rewards before, as recent years have witnessed the lower regions of the depth chart yield starters like Nick Ferguson, and Kelly Herndon.

"If they make plays, they make plays," defensive coordinator Larry Coyer said. "Herndon made plays. He was a scout team guy for a whole year and he kept covering guys, so I think it translates reasonably.

"Then in the pass-rush stuff, Corey Jackson jumped out (in practice last season). He jumped out at you. I think it's easier to move that forward sometimes than a young player being able to translate (from the college ranks)." http://www.denverbroncos.com/previewPrintable.php?type=top_story&id=334&storyVersionID=5384 3/10/2006 DenverBroncos.com -- Official Web Site of the Denver Broncos Page 2 of 2 And with Jackson, the adjustment to football is largely complete. Basketball is nearly four years in his rear-view mirror. It's all about football now -- and making the leap the Broncos believe he can execute.

"The sky's the limit for that kid," Sundquist said.

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To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/broncos/article/0,1713,BDC_2453_4896531,00.html WR Kircus aims to serve up roster spot

Former sub shop employee turning heads at camp

By Ryan Thorburn, Camera Sports Writer August 5, 2006

ENGLEWOOD — Jared is annoying and Jon Lovitz is washed up.

Perhaps a better spokesperson for Subway restaurants will emerge from Denver Broncos training camp in David Kircus.

After being waived by the Lions last September, the wide receiver moonlighted at the popular sandwich chain in the Detroit area while waiting for another job offer from the NFL. Kircus — who recommends the roasted chicken, for what it's worth — has been slicing up some talented cornerbacks like fresh-cut meat for the past eight days.

"I'm just making plays and trying to do it as often as I can to keep the eyes on me," Kircus said. "I don't want to be the guy that, come the last cut in camp they say, 'Well, we were going to keep you, but it's a numbers game so we're making you the last cut.' That's what Detroit always did."

Speaking of Detroit, the Broncos open up the exhibition schedule next Friday night at Ford Field (5:30 p.m., Channel 4). Rod Smith and Javon Walker won't be breaking too much of a sweat, but the game means everything to roster bubble boys like Kircus.

"He is a guy that can run. He doesn't stop," Jake Plummer said. "When we were in the offseason conditioning, he runs everything that everybody else does, and when everyone is lying down, he is ready to go run some more. The guy has got great wheels, and he is getting better."

The Lions selected Kircus in the sixth round of the 2003 draft. Hurting his chances of getting in the rotation was the team's decision to give disappointing first-round picks Charles Rogers, Roy Williams and Mike Williams every opportunity to develop into stars.

Kircus, who worked out for the Broncos last season and signed a future contract on Jan. 3, has practiced his way into the mix for the No. 3 spot in Denver as the puzzling Ashley Lelie holdout continues.

"It's pretty ironic. I was quite pleased when I saw it on the schedule," Kircus said of returning to Detroit in his first game with the Broncos. "It will be refreshing to get out there and actually play football instead of always being the guy that they just throw in there because they needed someone out there."

Kircus played in three regular-season games with the Lions, making six catches for 121 yards (20.2 per), including a 50-yard touchdown against Dallas in 2004. His 4,523 receiving yards in college at Division II Grand Valley State ranked as the sixth- highest total in NCAA history.

It wasn't enough for the Michigan native to keep an NFL home in Detroit. But Kircus — a 6-foot-2 player with great hands who wears No. 87 and happens to be white — has had the crowd buzzing at Dove Valley through eight days of camp.

"I've heard it a lot," Kircus said of the Ed McCaffrey comparisons. "I've actually heard it from people around town. They're like, 'You've got some big shoes to fill.'

"I was No. 87 in Detroit, it's not like I got that number because of him. But they are some good footsteps to follow. He was a good player, and I'm going to try and be good myself."

During Friday's morning practice, Kircus continued to snare everything thrown in his direction, including a ball that slipped through the hands of cornerback Darrent Williams. Brandon Marshall, Darius Watts, Charlie Adams, Todd Devoe, Brian Clark

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and David Terrell are also vying for three or four roster spots behind Smith and Walker.

"After Rod and Javon, I think all of us are willing and able to go in there at the No. 3 spot and make a play," Kircus said. "I'm just trying to stay as consistent as I can. They're putting me in there on a lot of reps, a lot more than I ever got in Detroit."

Compete fresh!

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Monday, July 3, 2006 'Like Walking on Eggshells'

Former Division II All-American Kuper Was Quickly Thrown Into Fire

By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- It didn't take long for Chris Kuper to learn about one of the most evident differences between Division II and the National Football League.

No, we're not referring to the mere size or mass of the playbook. Rather, it's how quickly he and Denver's other rookies are expected to absorb the contents therein. The transition and learning curve isn't gentle; the first days of offseason organized team activities are spent trying to teach Kuper and his fellow newcomers every nuance it contains.

"It's the whole book the first couple of weeks, and they're installing new stuff every day," Kuper said. "That two weeks (of quarterback camp) was kind of like walking on eggshells, trying to figure things out by watching the vets, and just trying to get it right on the field.

"There's no comparison. It's a different realm."

Far different from what he experienced at the University of North Dakota, where, in spite of the program's low profile in Division II, he still managed to nab the notice of NFL scouts enough to collar an invitation to the National Scouting Combine, where he had his first contact with the Broncos.

It quickly became a place he wanted to go.

"They were the top team as far as being a team of prestige, and one I could fit in with," Kuper said.

It also helped that Kuper would train at Velocity Sports Performance, a nearby complex that allowed him to get familiar with Denver -- and with now-teammate Tom Nalen.

"It just seemed like a great place to live and to play," Kuper said. "When I was out there, I went and saw the AFC Championship (Game) out there, and the atmosphere was unbelievable."

Being a part of that atmosphere, though, will take some work. In recent years, rookie offensive linemen have barely seen the field in their opening seasons. Center Tom Nalen is the only member of the Broncos' starting front to have started as a rookie; left guard Ben Hamilton didn't even play in his first NFL season. Cooper Carlisle only played one game as a rookie on the offensive line (although he did play in 14 on special teams); George Foster played in just one game in his 2003 rookie year; Matt Lepsis spent his first season on the non-football injury list.

So Kuper has braced himself. If the starting offensive line stays healthy, he knows playing time will be scant if recent history holds up.

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"If they don't think I'm ready, then I'll probably know that I'm not ready, either," he said. "Just as long as I'm on the team and I'm getting some reps in practice, and just continuing to learn, I'll be okay."

That makes his individual goals as a rookie clear.

"I just want to make this team and be someone that my team can count on," Kuper said. "If there are injuries, I want to be able to come in and not have a drop-off."

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To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4708023,00.html Lang is old-school fit

Defensive lineman gets new start in Denver

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News May 18, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - Like many folks around this time of year, Kenard Lang is just finishing up school and gearing up for camp.

Only Lang is 31 years old and a Denver Broncos defensive end, taking part in his first formal workouts with his new teammates this week after nine seasons with two other NFL teams.

As for the higher-learning part, that has been nearly a decade in the making, too, since Lang left the University of Miami as an early- entry junior for the 1997 draft.

When Lang bolted South Florida and left behind campus life, he promised his parents, Calvin and Johnni, both longtime educators in Orlando, Fla., he one day would finish what he started academically.

Lang finally kept his promise.

It took him until this month to make good, and even Lang wonders what took so long.

"Trust me, everybody looked at me like, 'You are crazy. You've done waited 10 years to take three classes?' " Lang said Wednesday after his second practice with the Broncos.

The classroom scene, at first, was surreal: an accomplished pro lineman with more than his share of experience in the real world surrounded by a bunch of 21-year-olds wondering what they were going to do with their lives.

Yet Lang's education wasn't limited to his two black history courses and one in sports management.

"It brought me back to earth in a way," he said. "You're just like all the other quote-unquote 'common folk' where, just because you play football, you get no special treatment. I think it's good for everybody, that humility."

The first day of the semester was not so much humbling as downright eye-opening. At that stage, no one knew about Lang's occupation, and he was soaking in the scene. Later, some classmates looked up Lang on the Internet and discovered his other life.

"Oh, my goodness, I felt like an old man in a way, out of place," Lang recalled of his first days in class. "Here are these young kids with thoughts and opinions and you're looking at them dumbfounded, thinking, 'What are you talking about?' But then you've got to realize, I was the same way, too."

During that mid-1990s time frame, Lang was going to be a double major in elementary education and sociology. That would have taken him one year to complete, so he went for the abbreviated version to obtain a liberal-arts degree.

"As long as I get that piece of paper, that's all that matters," he said.

Lang believes his mother will be more proud of that accomplishment than anything he has done on a football field.

But he didn't graduate just for his family.

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Lang's career with the Washington Redskins (1997 to 2001) and Cleveland Browns (2002 to 2005) has been long enough that he realized the end will come someday and, now, it'll be sooner rather than later. Completing his education could help in the next life stage.

"I can see that light at the end of the tunnel, so I have to try to set myself up," Lang said.

Lang is set up just fine at the moment. He played his final year with the Browns as an outside linebacker after the team switched to a 3-4 alignment before he was released this spring. With the Broncos, he gets to return to his natural position and, potentially, become a pass-rushing force.

Lang has averaged nearly five sacks a season during in his career, getting a career-best eight in 2003.

The next season was the last for Andre Patterson on the Browns coaching staff. He now serves as the Broncos' co-defensive line coach, with Jacob Burney.

Monday, while stretching for his first practice at Dove Valley as part of the Broncos' eight-day passing camp, Lang thanked the pair for his new opportunity, not only with a possible Super Bowl contender but for the chance to return to end.

"It's like a new beginning," he said.

And a new Lang, as well.

Because Lang played linebacker last season after a brief stint at defensive tackle, he had to get significantly lighter and quicker to meet the position's demands. He lost 20 pounds, getting to the 240 range for the first time since he was a freshman at Miami.

"Basically, I was like Jared on the Subway commercial," said Lang, who ate the chain's sandwiches as part of a complete overhaul of his diet. "I stayed off fried foods and drank water and fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice. And I stopped eating late."

Lang since has bulked back up to 255 pounds, and he plans to add 10 more for the regular season.

"Coming back here, I'll get back to being a fat boy a little bit, eating whatever I want and enjoying myself," he said.

Enjoyment was in short supply during his time with the Browns because of the franchise's consistent losing. Cleveland posted seasons of nine, five, four and six victories during his time there.

Many of his former teammates who have landed with the Broncos - Michael Myers, Courtney Brown, Ebenezer Ekuban and Gerard Warren - expressed similar frustrations last season before making the AFC Championship Game in their first season with the Broncos.

"Here, you expect to win. There, you hoped to win," Lang said. "It wasn't taught there, but that was the aura in the locker room."

And mediocrity apparently doesn't sit well with Lang.

As Lang finishes talking, he informs a writer he's about to go get his grades for his last semester as an undergraduate.

"I want to make magna cum laude, all of that," he said with a broad smile.

At 31, he already is the dean of the Broncos' defensive line, just as he was the oldest in his classes.

"He can run and he can still rush the passer," Brown said. "He brings a lot of excitement and a lot of experience. He'll be a great piece to the puzzle."

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Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4887427,00.html There's plenty of gas left in Lynch's tank

Despite being in 30s, Lynch, Ferguson still have powerful games

By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News August 2, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - The whispers are a scream. A shrill and unrelenting scream.

At least, it seems that way sometimes to John Lynch.

Because in football years, 23 is young, 28 is veteran and 34, well, it's downright gray around the temples, a hit-the-buffet-early deal. And Lynch, who just happens to be 34 (he turns 35 in September), knows the whispers are out there.

"And I get tired of it," he said Tuesday. "(Buccaneers linebacker) gave me a call when he was checking into camp. We were both talking that you're not the same as you were 10 years ago and that, sure, there are some things that are different.

"But there are just as many things you do better, like you understand how to take care of yourself a lot better. But he was asking me, 'Do you feel as good as you've ever felt?' I said, 'Absolutely.'

"I just don't believe the hype, you believe in yourself. You know you're going to hear it. Players are going to hear it, it's just a natural thing. I guess I choose not to listen."

Lynch isn't alone in all of this. Standing next to him in the Broncos' starting defense is Nick Ferguson, a 31-year-old who also chooses to turn a deaf ear to those who wonder about candles on a birthday cake as Denver goes about its business.

This will be the third season Ferguson and Lynch will be paired at safety in the Broncos' secondary.

And this season, more than the others, it seems, there are those on the outside, even some NFL personnel executives, who wonder how the Broncos have made the pairing work so well.

"Me, I try not to pay any of that any attention," Ferguson said. "I'm a young man. Aren't you only as old as you think you are? If you feel good, take care of yourself, it doesn't matter.

"It's all about how you take care of yourself and if you're blessed as far as injuries. . . . I can understand how sick and tired John is of hearing that, especially all that he's done, all that he's given to the game. For people to say he or anybody else should be done when he reaches a certain age the way he is playing is wrong."

Ferguson started every game last season, finishing with career-highs in tackles (81), interceptions (five) and passes defensed (12).

Lynch earned his seventh Pro Bowl trip, his second in the previous two seasons with the Broncos. He finished with two interceptions, moving him into a tie for the league's second-longest active streak of 11 consecutive seasons with at least one.

Lynch, Aaron Glenn and trail Troy Vincent's 14.

And while the Broncos gave some thought to possibly securing a developmental prospect in the draft - they used only one of

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their seven draft picks on a defensive player, lineman Elvis Dumervil - they have made it clear they like what they have at the top of the depth chart.

"I know people were saying things like that before the draft, talking about the age thing, but people say that about (Broncos receiver) Rod (Smith)," Ferguson said.

"C'mon, look at Rod. Who (cares) what his age says? It's all about what you do on the field. That's the bottom line.

"I think sometimes all that age stuff . . . it's just a lot of people who wish they could do what we're doing."

For Lynch, it is the continuation of all he had hoped for when he signed with the Broncos before the 2004 season.

After being released by Tampa Bay because the Buccaneers had looked at the calendar and the veteran safety's X-rays - he had a neck injury in the 2003 season that required surgery - Lynch was careful to look for a place where he could continue to have an opportunity to reach the postseason.

And this past offseason he said quickly - at the Pro Bowl in February - he would be back for the 2006 season and beyond if he continued to feel as good as he does now.

"Last year, I was healthy as I've ever been," Lynch said. "The coaches told me in minicamp I was moving around better than I ever have. But it's about trying to win a championship - that's what I'm about, and people can say what they want."

Ferguson, who spent one year out of football and three years in the Canadian Football League before he was able to stick in the NFL with the New York Jets in 2000, is not about to surrender a starting job he has worked so hard to get.

In fact, he started more games last season (16) than he did in his previous five NFL seasons combined (12).

So here they are, the Broncos' set of 30-somethings ready for more.

"They're just good football players, that's why they're back there," Broncos defensive coordinator Larry Coyer said. "They're both good, good athletes, and they are as tough as pine nails, both of them.

"I'm glad to have them, glad to."

[email protected] or 303-892-2359

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Article Launched: 8/02/2006 01:00 AM

broncos

Rookie looks like big catch

By Bill Williamson Denver Post Staff Writer DenverPost.com

Pittsburgh native Brandon Marshall and his trainer, Darnell Harrison, were talking all week leading up to the AFC championship game between the Steelers and the Broncos last January.

Harrison, a big Broncos fan, kept telling Marshall the Steelers were in big trouble. "Yeah, whatever," the wide receiver from Central Florida would tell his trainer between workouts.

When the Steelers advanced to the Super Bowl and the Broncos went into the offseason looking for answers - and new blood - Marshall laughed while Harrison pondered.

"Just like the team, I wanted to move on after the loss," said Harrison, who has worked with Marshall for six years. "I knew Denver needed help. I thought Brandon would be perfect. He's a Bronco now. I've loved that team for a long time, and Brandon is perfect for what they do."

The Broncos concur about the wideout they picked in the fourth round of the NFL draft in April. Five days into training camp, the 6-foot-5, 230-pound Marshall has been one of the standouts. He has made play after play, using his superior size and playmaking ability.

The kid they call "Baby T.O." is in the hunt to complete a new-look receiving corps and replace disgruntled Ashley Lelie in the team's rotation. Marshall still must prove himself in preseason games, but he has the chance to become Denver's No. 3 receiver and play a major role in the offense behind starters Javon Walker and Rod Smith.

Darius Watts, David Terrell, Charlie Adams and Todd Devoe also are looking to benefit from Lelie's holdout from camp, but Marshall appears poised to seize the opportunity.

"He's still a rookie, he still has to show himself when it counts," said Mike Heimerdinger, Denver's assistant head coach and passing game coordinator. "But he has all the tools. He has a shot because of that."

Star cornerback Champ Bailey has said he was shocked Marshall wasn't a first-round pick. Denver initially thought Marshall would be an ideal H-back because of his size and leaping ability - a perfect red-zone threat. But that notion has been scrapped. Marshall appears to be a full-field player.

"He looks like a guy who should be on the field a lot," Broncos safety John Lynch said. "He's strong. I've hit him a few times and you won't be able to arm-tackle that guy."

Marshall's ability to learn also has impressed the Denver coaching staff, which has thrown a lot at him.

"This is the ideal environment for me," said Marshall who has shadowed Walker and Smith off the field. "If I'm doing well, that's good to hear. But I know I still have to keep pushing."

Marshall hasn't shown any signs of the character flaws he was labeled with in some of the predraft analysis. He had a reputation for being a me- first player, extending the Terrell Owens comparisons off the field.

But his college coach, George O'Leary, said the Broncos shouldn't worry about Marshall's personality. O'Leary, who coached him as a junior and senior, said he remembers Marshall being "stupid" once, and that he was a joy to coach. Marshall even sacrificed his development as a wideout to play safety in an emergency as a junior in 2004 on Central Florida's 0-11 team because of an injury.

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"I think most of that stuff, just him looking for attention, happened before I got there," O'Leary said. "If people weren't drafting him because of off-the-field stuff, that was a mistake. He's a pretty good kid. I'm proud of this kid, who stayed and finished his degree. I still keep in touch him. He's no problem."

Marshall stressed he never would become a T.O.-like distraction. When told of O'Leary's kind words, the Christmas morning twinkle of a 4-year-old came from Marshall's eyes.

"I respect people," said Marshall, who had the support of family members at camp last weekend. "Ask anyone here from the janitor to the equipment manager, I am respectful. I will continue to be that way."

O'Leary, a former NFL defensive coordinator, said he told several NFL teams that Marshall would be a steal.

"The guy can make plays in that league," O'Leary said. "It doesn't surprise me that he's been impressive."

Perhaps when the Steelers and Broncos meet in Pittsburgh on Nov. 5, Marshall will make his trainer happy.

"I think he's all that's been missing," Harrison said.

Staff writer Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or [email protected].

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Publication: The Gazette; Date:2006 Aug 04; Section:Sports; Page Number 25

BRONCOS Not ready to throw in towel Meadows back after 2-year break By FRANK SCHWAB THE GAZETTE

ENGLEWOOD c The worst part about retirement for offensive tackle Adam Meadows was his belief that he was better than some of the NFL players he watched on television. Meadows quit football in 2004 at 30 years old, when he was still a starter. His body made the decision for him. His shoulder hurt so badly during Carolina Panthers training camp, he couldn’t lift his arm to wash his face. He retired, gave back his signing bonus and often thought about what he was missing over the next couple years. “It was very difficult the 2004 season, but last season I started getting a little ticked off because I felt like there are some guys playing that I could probably compete with,” said Meadows, a former starter with the Indianapolis Colts who came out of retirement and signed with the Denver Broncos last week. “I just felt like I could do it and it started to irritate me.” Other Broncos have had their bodies betray them just as they were hitting their prime. “When you sit there and you look at my career, I think everybody looks at it as ‘What if?’” former Broncos running back Terrell Davis said in August of 2003. Davis won the NFL MVP award in 1998 but was never the same after a knee injury the next year. Linebacker John Mobley and Bob Swenson, running backs Otis Armstrong, Bobby Anderson and Rob Lytle and quarterback Steve Tensi are among many Broncos whose careers were affected or cut short by injuries. Defensive end Rich “Tombstone” Jackson was named to ’s All-Century team in 1999, but he never made it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Jackson played six seasons with the Broncos and 82 career games overall. He suffered a knee injury in 1971, and it forced him to retire the next year. “I accepted the fact that I had an injury and I did everything humanly possible to come back,” said Jackson, who thought he could have played another five or six years. Nate Webster’s career was on the upswing in 2004. He led the Bengals in tackles through three games when he tore the patella tendon in his right knee. He missed the rest of that season, then played in only one game the next season because he reinjured the tendon. Webster signed with the Broncos in the offseason, as a backup at middle linebacker. “It was as tough as it could get,” Webster said. “You name it, from not being able to get around for my kids like I wanted to, and just down in the tank, man. It’s what you love to do and it’s been taken away from you.” Jackson said he was content when he retired. He said his dream was always to be a schoolteacher, and he worked 31 years as a school administrator in New Orleans until he retired last January. For Meadows and Webster, the itch didn’t go away. They were both young and felt they were still good enough to play in the NFL if their bodies would cooperate. “I would tell my wife, ‘Where is my ship? It is not coming in and I really don’t understand why,’” said Meadows, who ran a residential construction company and a real estate development company when he was retired. “I felt like I was doing some good things and it wasn’t a financial decision to come back but it was something that I felt like I have a God-given ability to play football and I wanted to be a good steward of that also.” Webster and Meadows had a similar feeling about training camp. Many veterans don’t enjoy it, but they were happy to be a part of a team again.

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“It’s a feeling I haven’t felt for a long time, having to sit home watching the games, not being able to move,” Webster said. “Knowing I went from barely walking to running full speed again, I’m proud of myself.” CONTACT THE WRITER: 476-4891 or [email protected]

http://daily.gazette.com/APD25617/PrintArt.asp?Title=Not%20ready%20to%20throw%20i... 8/4/2006 Mustard garnering attention TE’s blocking a plus

By Bill Wilson The Daily Times-Call

ENGLEWOOD — Splitting his time between guard and wide receiver for the Omaha Beef, Chad Mustard decided to take his shot at the NFL.

After a modest career at North Dakota, Mustard was quickly dominating the National Indoor Football League. In his only season with the Beef, making $200 per game, he caught 12 touchdown passes.

When one of his teammates, a sheriff during the day, couldn’t play because he had to work, Mustard switched to guard and became known for blocking defenders into the stands. At first, the gig was nothing more than a distraction from his job teaching math at Omaha North High School.

At the urging of his teammates, Mustard made a highlight tape — using the school’s video-editing equipment — and sent it to every team in the NFL. Nearly four years later, after stints with the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns, Mustard has a good chance to make the Denver Broncos’ roster as a tight end.

“That’s certainly the hard route,” said Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist, who estimated the likelihood of Mustard’s accomplishment at 10,000-to-1.

“Statistically you look at it and go, ‘Whoa, Rudy.’ To go through what he’s gone through and be catching everybody’s eye out there? Good for him.”

Denver signed the 6-foot-6, 277-pound Mustard this winter after deciding it needed more muscle in its tight end corps, Sundquist said. The team moved him to tackle shortly after he signed, but switched him back to tight end after injuries to Wesley Duke and Landon Trusty.

The Broncos knew they were getting a player capable of winning battles at the line of scrimmage, but have been amazed in training camp by his ability to perform in the passing game.

“He’s really been a pleasant surprise,” tight ends coach Tim Brewster said. “He’s got outstanding hands. I’m interested to see how he continues to progress and how he does in the games.”

The real surprise is how much athleticism Mustard packs in that big body. He entered North Dakota on a basketball scholarship and played 112 games for the Fighting Sioux, scoring 1,568 points and pulling 741 rebounds.

After exhausting his basketball eligibility, Mustard joined the school’s football team for two seasons. He was a reserve the first year, and caught 11 passes the second as the team defeated Grand Valley State for the Division II national championship.

Needless to say, there wasn’t much interest from pro scouts.

“I wasn’t well known,” he said. “We ran the ball every down.”

So, when Mustard returned to Nebraska, his native state, to fulfill his student teaching requirement and earn his degree, even he couldn’t have envisioned himself pursuing a career in the NFL. Because of that, he is probably the most stress-free player at Dove Valley this month.

“I don’t need football; I want football,” Mustard said. “I’ve got a good future ahead of me. I want to teach. I want to coach. I’ve got a beautiful wife, and a great life back home.”

On paper, it appears Mustard will battle veteran Steven Alexander, rookie Tony Scheffler and converted wide receiver Nate Jackson for a roster spot. In reality, he’s competing with tackle Dwayne Carswell.

In the past, the Broncos knew they could use Carswell, a former tight end, at the position in a pinch. Carswell’s two touchdown catches against Jacksonville last year are evidence of that.

Mustard provides the same service, except he’s a tight end the Broncos know they could use at tackle in a pinch, and he’s $385,000 cheaper.

Still, he knows the better he blocks, the greater his chances.

“My advantage is in the running game, because I’m bigger and stronger. I’m not going to outrun guys,” Mustard said. “If I’m just giving them an average block, they can get that from somebody else.

“If I’m going to be this big, I have to knock guys off the line of scrimmage.”

Just getting a uniform at an NFL training camp was his biggest challenge, however.

“This,” he said, “is just icing on the cake.” Rocky Mountain News: Broncos & NFL Page 1 of 2

Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4846947,00.html 'Deer in headlights' now in spotlight for Broncos

Paymah's wide eyes adjust to the glare of Broncos football

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News July 15, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - Karl Paymah had just sweated out a minicamp practice last week when he was asked about his development as an NFL player.

The swagger that permeated his answers was somewhat shocking from someone who had seemed so mild-mannered as a rookie.

"My goal is just to come in and get better," the second-year Denver Broncos cornerback said matter-of-factly. "But a guy like me, and my size and my ability, I've got to be on the field."

This wasn't Paymah's makeup, circa 2005 - at least outwardly.

His fear about making mistakes at times appeared to consume him. His playing time on defense was negligible as a result. And his off-field personality appeared to be polite and accepting of his fate as the third wheel behind breakthrough defensive backs Domonique Foxworth and Darrent Williams.

But somewhere along the way - about midseason is when coaches say progress became most noticeable - Paymah lost the deer-in-the-headlights look he often wore early in the season and instead found the eye of the tiger.

It has led to this: When Denver aligned in its nickel package last month at the end of organized team activities, Paymah's improving performance allowed him to pass Foxworth and jump into the first-team nickel, alongside Williams and Champ Bailey. That personnel grouping continued through minicamp.

Granted, there's still a month of training camp to sort out the final pecking order.

Yet Paymah's ascension shows that the coaching staff has taken note of his recent progress.

"He's definitely grown a lot since last year and knows what's expected of him now," Bailey said. "He's definitely improved."

Valuable lessons both from a team and personal perspective have been incorporated into Paymah's play and have helped him regain the confidence with which he played while at Washington State.

The overriding theme was he couldn't make every play and had to shake off the ones he didn't. Mentally, he had to accept how he fit within the entire defensive scheme.

His technique also needed work to adapt to an emphasis away from contact from defensive backs outside five yards.

"When I first came in, I was used to the college game and being physical, putting my hands on people, and that's just not going to happen in this league," said Paymah, who drew a few flags in limited action for overaggressiveness last season, including a key spearing penalty against Washington.

The transition to the pros was initially "a shocker."

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"It was unreal, just ticky-tack stuff," he said. "But then you realize when you're a rookie they're going to call stuff like that. So it was me being a little afraid to be physical and playing out of my element because I was worried and stuff. It kind of held me back. But now, I'm an all-around corner. I can be physical and do what I've got to do."

Paymah said there was no jealousy last season as Williams and Foxworth played significantly, while he slipped into mostly a special-teams role, where he finished second on the team with 11 tackles. Rather, he blamed himself and focused on improving his deficiencies.

"Of course, I felt I belonged on the field. That's why they drafted me the second corner (before Foxworth), because they wanted me to be on the field," he said. "But I'm not the kind of guy to point fingers. If I'm not on the field, it was because I was overly physical, getting penalties and hurting the team. And we had to roll with what was working, even if it's those other guys.

"I wasn't working," he said. "So I was mad at myself. I put all the responsibility on me."

The coaches have done likewise by putting their faith in Paymah. It's up to him to reward that belief in training camp with solid play to remain a viable option.

"I'm still nowhere," he said. "I'm getting in the rotation. But until the season comes or I feel I'm close to my potential, it's nothing."

[email protected]

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4884808,00.html Plummer in charge

Quarterback realizes need to produce as Cutler waits his turn

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News August 1, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - Jake Plummer emerged from the Broncos training facility for his first camp interview Thursday, and as he was ushered to a raised platform, his arrival was accompanied by an announcement.

"Jake, guys," a team staffer bellowed.

"You guys got all excited," Plummer responded playfully to the media horde. "You thought he said Jay."

Jay Cutler's rock-star arrival in orange and blue may be a joking matter now. But give it time.

During the next few months and beyond, Plummer might not be so lighthearted about the subject of the Broncos' first-rounder and potential future franchise quarterback.

The scrutiny figures to be more intense than anything he has faced in his decade behind center in the NFL, even if that pressure emanates from outside Dove Valley.

"It's change," Plummer reasoned about the Cutler story line. "Everybody gets excited about change."

At the same time, a defiant Plummer isn't sweating that particular situation just yet.

"It ain't happening for a while," he vowed. "It's not going to happen."

It almost certainly won't happen this season, not only because of the way Plummer played last season, when he was named a Pro Bowl alternate, and his current comfort level with the Broncos offense, but also because of the learning curve Cutler faces.

"The real guys that know what's going on, they know that it's down the road a ways before he's going to be ready," Plummer said. "And he's a great player right now. He's got a great arm and he's learning the system fast, but I feel great, really comfortable, doing everything I know how to do. They drafted a quarterback. There's nothing I can do now but go out and play my best."

Or turn a deaf ear when he doesn't.

Plummer likely will need a repeat performance of last season or even better to keep the wolves at bay. After all, Cutler is all unrealized potential. Plummer . . . well, nearly everyone thinks they already know what they've got from him.

The two get along, so that isn't the issue. Plummer has dispensed the kind of occasional advice that someone going into his 10th pro season can provide to a rookie.

He says he wants the youngster to become a superstar, "in time."

But Plummer figures to be answering questions ad nauseam on Cutler from here on out. And, at times, he previously has

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demonstrated a lack of patience publicly for well-worn story lines, living up to John Elway's shadow and eliminating turnovers being two of them.

"Will there be more expectations from the outside? Expectations are always tough on our club from the outside," general manager Ted Sundquist said. "It never lets up. It only gets hotter and heavier."

There already has been grumbling, even though Plummer is coming off the best season of his career, limited his mistakes, chucked away the ball when needed and helped the Broncos to the AFC Championship Game last season.

Take this exchange during Day 2 of camp practice between two fans.

Plummer had just thrown an incompletion. "Typical," one of the onlookers said in disgust. The pair then wondered aloud when Cutler would take over as No. 1.

The rookie quarterback a short time later took his repetition - with the third-team offense - and whizzed a completion. "I like that, dude! Way to go '6'!" was the delirious response.

Plummer understands. He was once a promising young player everyone wanted to see with the Arizona Cardinals. At one point early in Plummer's rookie season in 1997, an injury to starter Kent Graham was cheered at Sun Devil Stadium. The crowd chanted Plummer's name.

Still, it's puzzling in some respects why Plummer wouldn't be given more leeway from many Broncos supporters.

He has won 32 regular-season games as a starter, posting the third-highest winning percentage among NFL quarterbacks since joining the team as an unrestricted free agent from the Arizona Cardinals in 2003.

He had a stretch of 229 straight passes without an interception last season. He set a Broncos single-season record with 4,089 passing yards the previous year.

A few issues that have called into question his maturity, the latest being a minor traffic incident in which he was cited for road rage in May, might have dampened some of the enthusiasm locally.

"It's kind of funny because when everything's said and done and I look at everything I've done in my career, there are going to be people who say I was a failure," he said. "I'm nearing 30,000 yards in the league, and that doesn't happen everyday. But I can't worry about what other people are thinking or what they're going to say.

"I think a lot of people, instead of looking at the positives, they're still thinking about the two teams that won the Super Bowl - our fans still want that - instead of focusing on what we have, which is a very, very, very good football team. They're already looking toward the future when they should be enjoying the present. And I'm all about living in the present."

But Plummer does focus on one aspect of the past: His 1-3 record in the playoffs with the Broncos.

There's pressure to improve and, if he does, his whole legacy can change.

If he doesn't, he knows his own timetable for Cutler's future arrival might have to be adjusted forward.

"I'll go throw no interceptions this year, for 4,000 yards and 50 TDs and if we lose in the first round of the playoffs, they'll be calling for Jay to start next year. That's it. Plain and simple. Everybody knows that," he said. "It ain't about having a good season here, it's about the postseason."

The expectation among Broncos players and staff is Plummer will build on his 2005 success.

His confidence is such that when asked what he envisioned the reaction to be should he struggle, he shot back that won't happen "because when you're 5-0, you don't take your starter out. We're going to be a good team and I feel I'm going to play as good, if not better, than last year with the weapons we have around me."

Plummer met with quarterbacks coach Pat McPherson and assistant head coach Mike Heimerdinger frequently during the offseason, and through those sessions, the offensive scheme was tweaked to add more of the throws and reads with which Plummer's comfortable.

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They also studied defensive trends, looking for presnap clues into how coverages are disguised to further improve Plummer's decision-making.

"Every indication from what he's done in the classroom and on the field is that he should have a good year," McPherson said.

Plummer is talking about raising the bar even higher personally and as an offense this season by adding more big passing plays into the equation to complement the Broncos' steady running game.

Attain those goals and Plummer believes he can get into the 3,500-yard range while still limiting mistakes.

"We expect big things. He expects things. And I expect a lot more of what he did last year," receiver Rod Smith said. "We don't expect him to be some superhero. If he goes out there and tries to please everybody, then we're in trouble because he can't.

"But he can please the 50-plus guys on this team. And we're the hardest critics he's ever going to face."

[email protected]

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Publication: The Gazette; Date:2006 Aug 01; Section:Sports; Page Number 17 Sapp has climbed up depth chart

OPINION DAVID RAMSEY Gazette Sports columnist

ENGLEWOOD c Cecil Sapp grew up with four brothers in a crowded home on 189th Street in Miami, and each day he watched his dad, Lewis, and his mom, Lessie, depart for a long day of work. At night, his parents revealed the secrets to keeping a job. Please your employer. Be versatile. Don’t let ego ruin your dreams. When Sapp arrived at his first Denver Broncos training camp in 2003, his car said everything about his confidence. He drove a 1976 Chevy Impala, a battered brown cruiser that enjoyed its best days during the Carter Administration. He was, and is, a realist. He could see he faced a long, brutal battle for playing time. He had rushed for 1,601 yards as a senior tailback at Colorado State, but scouts sensed he lacked the speed required to turn the corner against NFL defenses. He wasn’t drafted. He lacked speed, but was jammed with determination. He would find a way to the field. That was the promise he made to himself. Sapp talked quietly as he considered his long path to good times. He was cut twice by the Broncos. He never started a game. He labored for three seasons in the shadows. But his time, finally, has arrived. “If you keep grabbing things,” Sapp said, “eventually your time will come and eventually opportunity will come and my opportunity is coming.” He’s running with the firstteam offense at fullback and appears ready to snatch the starting job from incumbent Kyle Johnson. He once flattened Mountain West tacklers, including more than a few from Air Force, with his no-fluff, rampaging style. “He was the kind of guy who might not run around you, but he would run over you,” Air Force coach Fisher DeBerry said. Sapp still drops defenders, only now he inflicts damage as a blocker. He doesn’t mind his new job’s lack of glory. His running style, and 28 career touchdowns, once dazzled fans in Fort Collins. His new task is anonymous. There’s no glamour in blocking. But Mike Shanahan notices everything. Sapp’s willingness to change impresses the Broncos boss. “A lot of guys who are tailbacks have a hard time transferring to fullback because they don’t like to block,” Shanahan said. “Cecil takes pride in blocking. He’s got a toughness about him, and I think he’s going to get better and better.” It was easy for Sapp to find inspiration during his seasons of struggle. He thought back to Lewis and Lessie, thought back to how diligently they labored to put food on the table for five hungry sons. “I want to pay my parents back, pay them back for doing a good job taking care of me and leading me on the right track and being there for me,” Sapp said. “I really want to show them how much I appreciate how much they’ve done for me.” The lessons learned at 189th Street helped him survive. When it became obvious Sapp wouldn’t make the team as a tailback, he asked Shanahan for a chance at fullback. He begged to play on special teams, where he excelled. He wasn’t obsessed with dancing in the end zone after long runs. He just wanted to play. He just wanted to keep his job. “I know where I came from,” Sapp said. “Just coming from a little or nothing, and just trying to make it in life – that’s the key. I know it’s hard out there.” It was time to go and enjoy one of the rewards for beating the odds. The brown bomber, that 1976 Impala, has returned to Miami, where it’s driven by one of Sapp’s closest friends. Sapp now cruises Denver highways in a 2003 Yukon. A starter can afford such luxury. Columnist David Ramsey can be reached at 476-4895 or [email protected]

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Wednesday, August 2, 2006 Camp Day 6 Report: A Rookie's Progress Scheffler Pays Heed to Position Coach's Teachings

By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Broncos knew Tony Scheffler could catch the football when they utilized a second-round pick on him.

But as training camp arrived and shoulder pads went on, the $64,000 question regarding Scheffler was a simple one -- can he block?

"(He's) pretty good blocking and that's where you have to keep on making strides -- in that area, because he didn't block a lot in college," Head Coach Mike Shanahan said. "The effort is there, and the technique will come in time."

It will come with daily improvement -- which Scheffler quickly recognized was crucial to his hopes of becoming an immediate contributor in an offense that has frequently features two tight ends in its myriad formations.

"I think each day I go out there and try and do just one thing better -- little things as far as footwork on blocking, just to make improvements each day," he said. "I think I'm adjusting pretty well."

Part of the adjustment meant getting used to the words of tight ends coach Tim Brewster whose exhortations to his pupils rattle throughout the practice fields, audible to the fans sitting on the nearby hillside.

More than a few of those words are directed at Scheffler. But the rookie knows that each lecture comes with a lesson.

"Sometimes he needs to yell at me," Scheffler said. "I'm making rookie mistakes out there that shouldn't be made, and he expects a lot out of me."

Indeed, the learning is part what makes an aspiring professional player into a contributor, and what morphs a contributor into a star -- the level Scheffler and the Broncos believe he can someday attain.

"We took him in the second round because we thought he was unique with his speed," Shanahan said. "There's not too many tight ends that run at that level with that speed, and we thought that he could maybe bring another dimension to our running game because he's a little bit bigger guy. That's not done yet.

"We'll see that when we put the pads on and play in game

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situations, but he does have a big upside."

And it's one that Scheffler believes that Brewster -- who helped turn from a raw converted basketball player into a Pro Bowler -- can help him reach.

"A lot of the guys rag on me a little bit because Brew gets on me all the time," Scheffler said, "but really, if he didn't care about me and didn't want the best for me, he'd probably just leave me alone."

But Brewster, Shanahan and the rest of the Broncos see the potential in Scheffler, who was the first tight end taken by the Broncos in the first two rounds in 15 years.

"Tony's been exceptional," Shanahan said. "It looks like he just keeps on making strides, so hopefully he can keep it going."

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Article Launched: 8/03/2006 01:00 AM

denver broncos

Smith playing the Fame Game

Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith carries numbers worthy of Canton consideration

By Mike Klis Denver Post Staff Writer DenverPost.com

If aging and all its punishing affects weren't so consuming, perhaps more people would congratulate Rod Smith on becoming an old man.

"They wouldn't know how old I was if you didn't keep telling them," Smith said.

Having turned 36, Smith has reached that bittersweet period in his NFL career when the legs aren't as springy, but the numbers have catapulted.

Because he has been more steady than spectacular in his 12 seasons in Denver, few may realize his statistics are skipping toward Canton's doorstep.

"He's got two Super Bowls and he has the stats to back it up," Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said. "I think he should be in the Hall of Fame right now."

Membership in Canton, however, is a rare football decision in which Shanahan doesn't have much say. The Pro Football Hall of Fame has a 39-man voting committee made up mostly of media members, and lately the group has been pancaking receivers.

As Smith stood on the sideline nursing a fresh hamstring pull during the Broncos' training camp workout Wednesday morning, he was listed 15th in NFL history in career catches and 16th in receiving yards.

Look at others on the list and with two more Rod Smith-like seasons - in his nine seasons as a starter, he has averaged 86 catches and 1,165 yards per - he likely would move into the top five in all-time receptions, and top 10 in yards.

Remarkable plateaus for a player who didn't become an NFL starter until he was 27 years old.

"I don't worry about it," Smith said. "It's short-lived as far as how long you get to play this game. Jerry Rice played a long time. For everybody else it's short-lived. If you're a person who's working and you've got cleats on and you're productive, you've got a chance to pile up numbers. But it's when you start playing for those numbers, I feel you lose your edge. The only numbers I play for is wins, and they don't even keep my wins and losses like they do quarterbacks. That's the only thing that bothers me."

For Rod's sake, his 103-51 record, including postseason, as a starter computes to a better winning percentage (.669) than Rice (.631), widely considered the greatest receiver in NFL history, and former teammate John Elway (.643), who had the best winning percentage among quarterbacks in league history.

Also impressive is the fact the Broncos are 0-4 in games since 1997 when Smith hasn't started.

"The thing about it is receivers have a reputation of being selfish," said cornerback Champ Bailey, who often goes one-on-one against Smith in training camp. "I think Rod is a team-first player, but he wants the ball. I know he wants the ball all the time, but he has a better way of going about it when he asks for it. If he has to ask for it - I don't think he has to ask for it much."

Some receivers, like Keyshawn Johnson a few years ago and Terrell Owens 24/7, give the impression they want the ball for personal gratification. If Smith wants the ball, it's probably because he believes it gives his team the best chance to win.

"I've never seen anybody with such a purpose in their lives," said receivers coach Steve Watson, once the team's Smith-like, go-

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to pass catcher. "He's a guy who if he married my daughter, I'd do back flips. That's the kind of guy he is. I love him. I get emotional when I think about it. He's a guy with three business degrees. As a player, he's a student who never stops learning. He's in the locker room in the mornings, all the time in the regular season, reading a book. He's a nonstop reader. He's always trying to nurture his knowledge. He wants to be the best."

In an era when showboats such as Owens and Chad Johnson can't hog enough spotlight, shouldn't the understated Smith get bonus points from Hall of Fame voters, especially if he has won more than Rice or Elway?

"The receiver position is just so congested," said NFL analyst John Clayton of ESPN, who has a Hall of Fame vote. "It seems like this is the second instance where it's gotten backed up. It got backed up when John Stallworth and Lynn Swann were banging each other and taking votes away from each other. That resulted in taking Swann (14) years to get in. Now we're having one in Art Monk and Michael Irvin, two guys who I feel deserve to go in."

Perhaps, also working against Smith's Hall of Fame bid is the perception receiving stats have been inflated since the NFL became enamored with the short-route passes beginning with the late 1970s. Until then, 60 catches made a big season. Smith once had 89 and didn't make the Pro Bowl.

When Steve Largent retired in 1989, he was the all-time leader in receptions. Now he is 11th, and falling. Smith is among those who will pass him.

Not that Smith is necessarily lumped in with the likes of Henry Ellard, Keenan McCardell, Jimmy Smith and Irving Fryar, players with gaudy reception stats but rarely mentioned in Hall of Fame discussions.

"I think he's ahead of them," Clayton said of Smith. "You look at Rod right now and I don't see any retirement speeches at the end of the year. He's every bit as good now as he was five years ago. And it probably would help to go to another Super Bowl, too. If you have three Super Bowl rings, that many catches, the undrafted story, and a couple more years left, that might be able to do it."

Staff writer Mike Klis can be reached at 303-820-5440 or [email protected].

Two sides of story

If Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith continues at his recent pace for two more seasons, it could spark debate about his belonging in the Pro Football Hall of Fame:

The arguments for Smith

 Could finish top five in receptions, and top 10 in yards.  Caught 80-yard Super Bowl TD pass in 1999 and has been part of two Super Bowl winners.  Three Pro Bowl appearances.  Considered great blocker and all-around player, respected by peers.

The arguments against Smith

 Never considered the best in any single season.  Playing in an era with inflated passing and receiving statistics.  Logjam of 11 wide receivers with more receptions than Smith going into this season who have yet to be elected to the Hall.

Catching attention

Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith is perhaps two typical seasons from moving into the top five of the NFL's all-time leaders for receptions. Smith can move to No. 7 on the list this year if he reaches his three-year average of 79 catches from 2003-05, giving him 876 for his career:

1. Jerry Rice, 1,549

2. Cris Carter, 1,101

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3. Tim Brown, 1,094

4. Andre Reed, 951

5. Art Monk, 940

6. Marvin Harrison*, 927

7. Jimmy Smith, 862

8. Irving Fryar, 851

9. Larry Centers, 827

10. Keenan McCardell*, 825

11. Steve Largent, 819

12. Shannon Sharpe, 815

13. Henry Ellard, 814

14. Isaac Bruce*, 813

15. Rod Smith*, 797

* - Active

Catching victories

Although it seems unlikely Jerry Rice's career receiving records ever will be broken, the Broncos' Rod Smith has him whipped in career winning percentage as a starter:

Receiver (Regular season / Postseason / Overall)

Rod Smith (95-47 (.669) / 8-4 (.667) / 103-51 (.669)

Jerry Rice (178-102 (.636) / 17-12 (.586) / 195-114 (.631)

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Wednesday, April 5, 2006 The Answers Lie Within

Confident Terrell Knows the Reason for Past Struggles -- Himself

By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- David Terrell has made peace with his past in professional football. He accepts that he'll never retrieve the first seasons of his career, years in which his performance did not match his high first-round pedigree, seasons lost in a ocean of frustration.

And as he readily admits, his wounds have been self- inflicted.

"The killer on me has always been me," he said. "I know what I need to do to be a great player now. With everything said, it's just to go out and play football."

As Terrell enters the Broncos' offseason program, he does so ebullient with confidence -- a confidence that was never completely dulled, but is rapidly regaining the luster made evident to the football-observing world on an April Saturday five years ago, when the Chicago Bears utilized a top-10 draft selection on him.

"Terrell Owens is not better than me," Terrell said. "Keyshawn Johnson is not better than me. Randy Moss is not better than me. The only person better than me is me."

Indeed, Terrell was drafted higher than all but one of those names. But his statistics never matched those; while Owens, Johnson and Moss have combined for 17 1,000-yard seasons, Terrell has 1,602 receiving yards in his five-year career, and none in the 2005 season, during which he spent all but one game watching from the bench as a game-day inactive.

"It was hard, but when you've got good coaches like (Head) Coach (Mike) Shanahan -- he knew," Terrell said. "I didn't know, but he knew. He just constantly told me to trust him, and it was hard for me to do at first, but as the season went on, it was one of those things where I did see what he was saying.

"He trusted me, and I started trusting him more. Whatever he asks me to do, I'll go out there and do it - - whatever it may be."

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Terrell's charge in 2005 was to observe and learn, free from the expectations that dogged him in Chicago as a the No. 8 overall pick.

"I had a long time to sit back last year and look back at guys like Rod (Smith) and Ashley (Lelie) and Todd Devoe going off -- just for me to look and say, 'Hey, where can I put myself?'" Terrell said. "Right now, I'm going to go out and work hard like I have been doing and just try to maximize all the time I have to grow as a player and try to get myself a starting job."

Even as he watched from the bench, he received assurances from the Broncos' brain trust that his presence was valued -- something that has continued through the offseason.

"(Terrell is) a former first rounder with the potential to be a No. 3," General Manager Ted Sundquist said in March. "I am pushing David Terrell hard. Has he reached the level that he was projected to reach coming out? No. But that doesn't take away from the talent aspect of it. The guy's a talented guy."

The message was far different, Terrell said, than the one he received during his four seasons in Chicago.

"The best thing for me with all that said (by the Broncos) was knowing that in Chicago I wasn't wanted," Terrell said, "and it was noted that I wasn't wanted there from the get-go (by general manager) , and just knowing that I've got a group of guys here with Coach Shanahan and Ted Sundquist who know what I can do and they said it from the jump: 'We like your ability and want you to come out and show what you can really do and it'll be all good for you.'

"With that said, the only thing David Terrell has got to do is go out, learn from guys like Rod Smith, take the coaching from Coach Shanahan and Coach (Steve Watson) and when it's time to get on the field, just let it ride."

All that being said, Terrell knows that being wanted isn't enough. The Broncos' brass doesn't merely want Terrell to be there; they want him to grow, flourish and seize the opportunity granted -- and he knows it.

"I have to earn it," Terrell said. " hat's how I'm looking at it right now. I'm not taking the approach that I took when I first came into the league, that it was supposed to be given to me (because) I'm a first-round pick.

"I'm going at it with the approach that I'm nothing. I'm not even a (No. 3 wide receiver) right now. I'm just a guy trying to make a team, and to make the team -- my goal is to be a starter. I'm going to keep my goals where they are and that's just what it is, and I'm going to go out, play great offseason football and get ready for the season."

That means getting ready in every way. Listening to his coaches. Working out diligently. Watching the company he keeps -- both on the field and off.

"I can't be around somebody who's not going to tell me to stop drinking when I'm out drinking," Terrell said. "So it's one of those things (where) I had to get the right people around me. I know that now."

That wasn't the case in Chicago.

"Off the field I did a lot of bad things," he said. "When I was in Chicago, that's a beast. That city can swamp and consume you, and for a 20-year-old kid -- I let it get me."

Fortunately for Terrell and the Broncos, he feels that he knows differently now.

"I'm here in Denver and I'm around people that I'm supposed to be around," Terrell said. "The team, the people, the place, the time, you as a person maturing and growing up, knowing right and wrong. Little things that can turn into big things that you don't know. I know now. Catch the slant and keep running. Don't go down."

Terrell believes he struggled in Chicago not because of quarterback instability or other factors, but because of himself. But he believes future success will come as much from those around him as himself.

"I'm with a group of people who want me here -- who know what I can do," he said. "The only thing that Dave has to do is go out and play great football for them."

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4884809,00.html Van Pelt at crossroads

Plummer's the present and Cutler's the future, so he must find place

By Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News August 1, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - As he stops, looks and listens to all of what's happening around him, Bradlee Van Pelt knows what he needs right now.

He needs his elbows.

"I'm not naive," Van Pelt said. "This is an odd situation. I'm not getting squeezed, but I am in between a high-ranked guy and a high-ranked guy, high money and high money. I'm just in there trying to make some elbow room.

"And I'm struggling with this. I'm trying. It's a point where it's difficult. The first three days of camp felt like three weeks, because I feel like I'm struggling a little bit right now."

Van Pelt always has believed he can play quarterback. When Michigan State coaches wanted to make him a safety, he moved on to start at quarterback for three seasons with Colorado State.

When some scouts wondered before the 2004 draft if, despite being one of only nine players in Division I-A history to throw for at least 4,000 yards and rush for at least 2,000 in his career, he could make the transition to be a stand-in-the-pocket pro quarterback, he still believed.

And he still believes now, but that belief is just one in a churning crowd of thoughts that are roaring through Van Pelt's head.

"It's been a scrap since I've been in college," Van Pelt said. "I don't think you dream of being a backup - I never dreamt of being a backup. I always dreamed of being a starter.

"But life bloodies your nose. It's eight years later and there is another corner. You fight your way out of a corner and there is another corner. It's like you're swinging wildly, kicking, doing anything you can to get out of there."

And where the former Colorado State quarterback finds himself is between Broncos starter of the present Jake Plummer and anointed Broncos quarterback of the future Jay Cutler.

It's a place, only four days and a few errant throws into training camp, that had Van Pelt saying, "I can play better, I am better, but right now, it's a struggle."

"I think he's fine, he's just thinking a lot," Broncos assistant head coach Mike Hei- merdinger said. "We're throwing a lot of stuff at him right now. And he's working through it."

Van Pelt is in his third year with the team, but 2004 was spent on the practice squad and last season he appeared in only three games as Plummer's backup. He has thrown all of eight passes in regular-season games.

When the 2005 season ended, Van Pelt and the Broncos went about the business of adjusting his throwing motion, trying to give him a more traditional, over-the-top delivery to increase his accuracy.

"He did, he worked hard in the offseason, very hard, on his throwing motion," Heimerdinger said. "So I think, sometimes,

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he's a little too concerned with how he's throwing, trying to look picture perfect because there was a big emphasis on that, instead of just letting the ball go."

As the Broncos approach the season, there will be movement to make Cutler the No. 2 quarterback as a future starter in need of development who has a contract that could hit $48 million during the next six years.

The Broncos have kept only two quarterbacks on the roster in each of the previous two seasons, though coach Mike Shana- han has said he would be inclined to keep three this time around.

Still, Van Pelt said he just feels different and is battling his emotions as well as the day-to-day expectation level of camp.

Last year, he had to adjust to life as a professional when team officials asked him to move closer to the team's Dove Valley complex so he could spend more time there. This year, he is facing a roster that includes an established starter and a decorated prospect.

"I'm my biggest critic, I know that," said Van Pelt, who spent time with quarterbacks coach Pat McPherson after practice Sunday afternoon. "I'm out there struggling. . . . I try not to get down on myself, try to stay positive, but it's hard - there is a lot of pressure.

"But I feel like the kid's grown up - you have to. I still have some tendencies that you have to fight, but I'm going to be persistent. Things have gotten better in my game - I've gotten better. But people keep telling me to relax. It's uncomfortable, sometimes."

Limited duty for Van Pelt

• Broncos quarterback Bradlee Van Pelt is entering his third year with the team but finds himself in a difficult spot to earn any playing time.

Year Games Starts Comp. Att. Pct. TD Int.

2004 Practice squad

2005 3 0 2 8 25.0 0 0

[email protected] or 303-892-2359

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Tuesday, July 4, 2006 Versatile Vaughn Undrafted Rookie Learning All Three Linebacker Slots

By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Cameron Vaughn couldn't quite settle into one specific position at the Broncos' May and June organized team activities -- and that's just fine by him.

"They definitely want to make sure that they can throw me at any position, so I can be a reliable backup," the undrafted rookie said, "so I want to make sure that I have all three positions down equally. I have to go home at night and open the book up and hit it hard.

"So far it's going pretty good. I'm getting a pretty good feel for the linebacker position."

Versatility became Vaughn's hallmark during his four seasons at LSU. After seeing substantial action as a reserve during his true freshman season of 2002, he started at weakside linebacker in 2003 and 2004 before moving to the middle for his senior season. All the while, he played on four different special-teams units during his four years.

Keeping a close eye on Vaughn during his first two years in Baton Rouge was Kirk Doll, then an assistant for the Tigers. He would venture to Denver to join the Broncos' defensive staff in 2004, but by the time the 2006 draft wound to a close, he showed that he hadn't forgotten his former pupil.

"(The Broncos) called me during the seventh round after they'd made their last pick," Vaughn said. "Coach Doll called me a couple of times."

As the draft passed without Vaughn seeing his name flash on one of the networks broadcasting the proceedings, the phone rang with offers -- from the Broncos, and , in particular, as Vaughn recalled.

Doll's presence, though, tipped the balance to Denver.

"It was definitely a selling point," Vaughn said. "Coming into (undrafted) free agency, you've got to pick the right spot, and the best chance to make the team. He's already dealt with me before; he knows what kind of player I am, and he knew what he was getting when he was trying to get me, so that was a really good selling point.

"I figured I'd go in the later rounds -- fifth or sixth. It didn't work out for me ... but it turned out pretty well."

Familiarity with a coach, understanding of the system -- which Vaughn says has "a similar base package" to the one in which he played at LSU -- and his ability and willingness to play at any linebacker slot and on special teams are attributes that he hopes will result in achieving his first professional goal: to make the 53-man roster.

"Hopefully I'll show them something that they like," Vaughn said. "Really, I can't expect to come in here and start with the

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quality of linebackers they have. But if I can be a solid backup and play on special teams, that'll be a success."

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Article Launched: 7/23/2006 01:00 AM

denver broncos

What if ...

- Javon Walker's right knee holds up? - The wideout has another Pro Bowl season? - He is just what the Broncos need to succeed?

By Jim Armstrong Denver Post Staff Writer DenverPost.com

Baseball, Branch Rickey once said, is a game of inches. Then there's football, the game of ifs.

Take Javon Walker, for instance. If he's healthy, he's just what the Broncos need, a big, physical wideout who can stretch the field on one play and make a tough third-down catch on another. If his right knee holds up, he could become the Broncos' most significant offseason acquisition of the post-Elway era. If he's the player he was with the Packers, he could be the difference between the Broncos making the playoffs and winning the Super Bowl.

If, if, if.

There's no way around it. When you blow out your anterior cruciate ligament, you become a questionable commodity. The good news for the Broncos is, while Walker's future is uncertain, the exclamation points following his name far outnumber the question marks.

"We think he's one of the top receivers in the league," Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said. "If he's the top one, time will tell."

Whoa, whoa, whoa. The top one, as in the best in the business, the head of the table, the top of the food chain?

"He's got a chance," Shanahan said. "We wouldn't have signed him unless we had a lot of confidence in him. You don't give up a second-round draft choice unless you think a guy is going to be on your team for a while."

In late April, Walker couldn't fully extend his right leg. With the first workout of Camp Shanahan 2006 scheduled for Friday at Dove Valley, the Broncos are confident Walker will be healthy and productive. But the top wideout in the league? Walker says he can get there.

"That's definite," Walker said. "My Pro Bowl year (2004), I'm trying to get back to that level. I'm not going to live on the hype. That's why I'm here every day working. I can't let what I've done in the past dictate what I'm going to do. I want to come out and be better than I was. I want to give people a chance to say, 'You know what, that was a great move."'

This much is certain before he breaks his first sweat in training camp: Acquiring Walker was a move the Broncos didn't hesitate one second to make. When the Packers ceded to Walker's trade demands and made him available for the 37th pick in the draft, Shanahan and his staff jumped at the opportunity.

"How they pulled that off, I don't know," said Mike Heimerdinger, the Broncos' de facto offensive coordinator. "I was as shocked as everybody else. We all had a vote and it was unanimous. I was like, 'Heck, yeah.' It was kind of a no-brainer."

Heimerdinger was the Broncos' receivers coach from 1995-99, when he oversaw the development of Rod Smith and Ed McCaffrey into one of the NFL's elite pass-catching tandems. McCaffrey caught 101 passes and Smith 100 in 2000, a production level Heimerdinger said he believes Walker and Smith can match.

"You would hope so," Heimerdinger said. "I think you can do that. Because of our run game, we're always going to get pretty good matchups with the wide receivers because people are going to play an eight-man front. That's what you want, one-on-

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ones. We should be able to get those matchups, so I'm hoping those guys can get those kinds of numbers."

Smith's 100 receptions in 2000 remain the second-highest total of his career. Walker caught 89 passes with Green Bay in 2004 after beginning his NFL career with 23 catches in 2002 and 41 in 2003.

He never had a chance to hit the 100 mark last season, tearing up his knee in the Packers' season opener.

Numbers don't lie

Now for the numbers inside the numbers, the ones that suggest a healthy Walker could be the most complete package the Broncos have had at wide receiver. If he's the same player he was before the injury, he would be more explosive than Smith and more physical than Ashley Lelie, the Broncos' other starting wideout last season.

Walker caught nine touchdown passes in his second season and 12 in his breakout year of 2004. Smith had six touchdown catches last season, Lelie one. Then there's the matter of third-down conversions, by far the Broncos' most vexing issue in recent seasons. Denver finished 22nd in the league last season in third-down conversions at 36.2 percent. And that number gets uglier when you take a closer look at the Broncos' third-down production.

They ranked 27th in third-down conversions through the air, converting 30.6 percent compared with the Colts, who led the league at 48.6 percent.

"The stats don't lie," Smith said. "Our third downs were horrible. When we won the Super Bowl, we were like one or two in the league in third downs. That's how you get more points. That's how you stay on the field. That's how you help your defense. ... With a guy like Javon on our team, it helps us. It gives us another weapon."

Smith made 16 catches on third down last season, 12 for first downs. Lelie, who is expected to continue his holdout into training camp, had nine third-down catches, eight of which moved the chains. Walker? He caught 31 balls on third down in 2004, 24 going for first downs.

Force is with Walker

The obvious question: How big a force would a healthy Walker be for the Broncos on third down?

"He's a force on any down," said Ray Sherman, Walker's receivers coach in Green Bay.

"I love the guy. He's got special skills. Trust me, you put the ball in his area and he's going to make the play. That's the kind of guy he is. He's a physical guy. You'll see."

He's a physical guy who can go over the middle and also get open downfield. Oh, and did we mention Walker's run blocking was one of his most attractive attributes in the eyes of Broncos' coaches? It's called the complete package - if he's healthy.

How many receivers in the NFL can match Walker's versatility? Sherman came up with three: Terrell Owens, Donald Driver and Steve Smith. There may be a few more, but you get the point. The list can be knocked off before Maurice Clarett finishes his next 40-yard dash.

More numbers to consider: Walker caught 14 passes of 25-plus yards in 2004. That's one fewer than Smith and Lelie combined for last season. Touchdown catches? You want to talk touchdown catches? Walker's 21 touchdown catches during the 2003-04 seasons were more than any Broncos receiver has caught in back-to-back seasons in franchise history.

Like we said, the man makes for exclamation points. And he's only 27, meaning Walker has plenty of time to evolve into the Broncos' go-to guy. Smith has filled that role admirably for much of his career, but at 36 he'll have to pass the torch sooner, not later.

Marvels of medicine

Sounds like a plan, but it comes with strings attached. Or should we say ligaments repaired?

Everyone is saying all the right things when it comes to Walker's comeback from surgery. But since no one knows what fate has in store for him, let's stick to the facts about his damaged right knee.

First, thanks to the wonders of medical technology, the surgery wasn't as invasive as it would have been 20 years ago. Walker has a small arthroscopic puncture on the knee, something he joked about during a recent photo shoot for The Post.

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"My other knee looks worse," he said.

The advancements in ACL surgery were a major factor in Shanahan's decision to give up an early second-round pick for Walker. If the injury had occurred in a previous generation, Walker's future would have been much more uncertain.

"No question about it," Shanahan said. "Most of the guys today who have ACLs early in the season come back even stronger from the year before. A lot depends on the seriousness of the surgery. Some of these ACLs are completely blown and others are just a regular tear. Terrell Davis, for example, had a much different ACL than Javon. It was much worse."

Fact is, most NFL teams have a handful of key players who've had ACL surgeries at some point in their careers. The Broncos' list includes, among others, Smith, Matt Lepsis, Tom Nalen and Ian Gold. Then there's John Elway, who played 16 NFL seasons without an ACL in his left knee.

Rehabilitation key

None of that guarantees a successful comeback for Walker, of course, but all signs point to a big season in his first year in Denver. And if you need more proof, check out Walker's leg. He won't be wearing a knee brace, a decision he came to after consulting with, among others, longtime Broncos trainer Steve Antonopulos.

"In today's rehabilitative process, the mind-set is you don't need one," Antonopulos said. "The whole process is much different than what it used to be. He's at a phase where he'll have to go through some mental stuff, but he's doing very well with that. Every day he seems to be better, less tentative. The bottom line is we want him to be able to participate 100 percent by the first game."

As encouraged as the Broncos are by Walker's progress, it isn't like he's been ahead of the healing curve from Day One. To the contrary. Dr. Walt Lowe, the Texans' team surgeon, performed the surgery last October. Since Walker knew he was leaving the Packers, he stayed in Houston to rehab before returning to Florida State in January.

"He was working out on his own," Antonopulos said. "He thought he could just go back and do it. He had some soreness and stiffness, so he went back to Dr. Lowe in March and had a scope to clean out some scar tissue. It was during that time frame where he was traveling to different NFL teams, too."

When the Broncos made the deal, the message from their medical staff was loud and clear.

"Once we got him, the first thing we said was, 'You're going to come here right now, next week,"' Antonopulos said. "When he came to us, he wasn't able to get full extension on the leg. Gosh, you'd want that the first few weeks after surgery."

And so it was that Walker put his fate in the hands of the Broncos' medical staff. It was during that process when Antonopulos became more convinced that Walker will rediscover his Pro Bowl ways.

"He's got a great attitude," Antonopulos said. "He's done all we've asked of him. Everything psychologically and physically is geared toward that first game. That's the goal he and I have talked about from Day One, and he's followed it every inch of the way."

Walker will be relegated to one daily practice during camp, but expects to be ready for the season opener Sept. 10 at St. Louis. The difficult part, he said, is trying to be cautious and methodical at a time when he's so excited to be joining a team that fell one game short of the Super Bowl.

"Making plays on the field doesn't just happen," Walker said. "It's because you're part of a good organization. I'm excited just thinking about the caliber of the team, where they were a year ago, the new acquisitions....They fell one game short last year. Hopefully we can win that one game, go to the Super Bowl and win it."

Catch Jim Armstrong from 6-9 a.m. during "The Press Box" on ESPN radio. He can be reached at 303-820-5452 or [email protected].

Playing 20 questions with Javon

Staff writer Jim Armstrong helps us get to know new Broncos wide receiver Javon Walker by asking him 20 questions, some serious and some silly. Walker was acquired from the Green Bay Packers on draft day for a second-round draft pick. He was selected by Green Bay in the first round of the 2002 draft:

1 Favorite all-time athlete, any sport? Michael Jordan. "Because he's Michael Jordan."

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2 Biggest influence in your life? My mother. "She was a single mother raising a young man who never had a father around. For me to be doing what I am today, it's because of what she instilled in me. It's about having faith, being confident, never saying 'I can't."'

3 Last book you read? "Rich Dad, Poor Dad (What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money - That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not)" by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter.

4 Favorite all-time TV show? "'Martin.' I'm a Martin (Lawrence) and Jamie Foxx guy."

5 Favorite all-time movie? "'Dodgeball' - because it's so funny."

6 You would have made it to the big leagues if not for ... ? "Those darn curveballs."

7 Deepest, darkest secret that nobody knows about you? "My middle name." So what is it? "Can't say."

8 Thing that has surprised you most about Mike Shanahan? "He's real easy-going."

9 Ginger or Mary Ann? "Ginger."

10 Most indelible early impression of Denver? "The rain and cold in April. Now that I've seen the good weather, it's great, but when it was snowing in April, I was like, 'Oh, my goodness, I'm going back to another Green Bay."'

11 Best habit? "I take care of my body."

12 Worst habit? "I eat too much. That's why I have to take care of my body."

13 Favorite junk food? "KitKat bars."

14 Best friend in football? "Darren Sharper."

15 Best friend among your new teammates? "Champ Bailey-slash-Al Wilson-slash-Gerard Warren. I knew them before I came here."

16 Best advice you ever received from your mother? "Never say you can't."

17 Nastiest hit you ever took? "Saints safety Sammy Knight in my rookie year. It happened real early in the game and I didn't want to play anymore. I said to myself, 'Come on, man, you've got three quarters left."'

18 Best cover corner you've faced? "Champ Bailey."

19 Favorite musician? "Jay-Z."

20 Athletes should or shouldn't be role models? "We should. It's easy to say no, but then you might as well get out of the profession. You know kids are going to be watching."

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4890551,00.html 'Big Money' player for Broncos

Warren ready to prove worth again to Broncos

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News August 3, 2006

ENGLEWOOD - It was not going particularly well for the Broncos offense during a team period earlier during training camp, and defensive tackle Gerard Warren was letting the group know, just in case it was unaware.

"It's going to be haaarrrd today," he told players in the white uniforms.

Part of the reason things had gone awry at that moment was because of Warren. A few plays earlier, the defensive tackle sliced through a gap and chased quarterback Jake Plummer out of the pocket.

Later, more solid play by teammates prompted a wild dance by Warren.

These indeed are happy days for the player nicknamed "Big Money."

Warren signed a six-year, $36 million contract, with nearly $15 million in available bonuses included, in March to return to the team that acquired him in a trade during the 2005 offseason.

But there are more than financial reasons to do a little jig or two. Defensive coordinator Larry Coyer envisions Warren will play the kind of role once did with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, slashing through gaps, disrupting offensive rhythm.

And because Sapp was the player Warren modeled himself after during college, that's real cause for celebration.

"What Larry wants me to do this year I call 'funball,' " Warren said, wearing a broad smile.

Whereas last season Warren might be called on to engage the guard to allow linebackers to flow to the ballcarrier, say, on a toss sweep, it's now his job to bust into the backfield and make the running back cut in another direction.

On passing downs, with less blitzing expected, Warren should have more opportunities to push the pocket instead of serving as a decoy for extra rushers.

"It's creating havoc," Warren said. "I could care less about numbers. If I can get in there and disrupt the offense and keep them off rhythm and keep pitching a changeup and giving them fits in the middle, then my job is accomplished."

Warren has put up numbers in the past. He had 9 1/2 sacks in his final two seasons with the Browns playing a similar style, with current Broncos defensive line coach Andre Patterson mentoring him. It was Warren's best two-year run in that category.

"He's definitely capable of getting that done," Patterson said. "It's a matter of whether we go in that direction. And that's what we've been working on."

Warren's statistics (33 unassisted tackles, 20 assists) weren't nearly as gaudy in his first season with the Broncos. But the players aligned behind Warren appreciated his play as the Broncos posted the league's No. 2 rush defense and middle linebacker Al Wilson went to the Pro Bowl.

"He played great," weakside linebacker Ian Gold said.

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"You've got a guy who had everybody in the world doubting him, counting him out, saying he's a bust and a first-rounder that shouldn't have been a first-rounder, and to do what he did last year, he shut everybody up. He fought through the adversity and, in my book, he's now a proven player."

Gold said the new scheme should provide Warren with "more incentive to go out and be a playmaker now."

The next hurdle for Warren is proving he's a self-motivated player after he pocketed the big bucks. But as the defensive tackle noted, he was given megadollars when he was drafted and felt his 72-tackle rookie year was his best season.

Besides, he asked, "You think Mike Shanahan would have gave me another contract if he thought I was going to be a liability or show less effort than I did last year?"

Patterson also doesn't believe that knock is fair.

"When you go in the top five picks in the draft, there's always going to be questions until you go to a Pro Bowl or Super Bowl, no matter how well you play for an organization," he said.

People can talk all they want, but it won't stop Warren from smiling. His happy-go-lucky demonstration at practice is only a sliver of the kind of emotion he can be expected to show, and it has as camp has progressed.

At one point, Warren and Coyer shared a moment of joy that was punctuated by the two doing a hand slap that seemed odd between a massive 325-pounder and a grandfatherly man in sweats.

The volume on Warren's trash-talking has increased from last season. But Warren promised he's capable of more.

"Last year, it wasn't my role to talk and really be free and be myself, because nothing was established. I hadn't solidified anything," Warren said. "I walked around as the new bust in town. And now I'm here for awhile, and I've gotta be me now."

With a slice of Warren Sapp's game mixed in for good measure.

[email protected]

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.

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Publish Date: 7/19/2006

Catching on In Lelie’s absence, Broncos count on Watts to improve

By Bill Wilson The Daily Times-Call

ENGLEWOOD — At this level, compliments aren’t usually handed out.

So when it took Denver Broncos receivers coach Steve Watson less than a second to articulate the ability of third-year pupil Darius Watts, the words stood out.

“He’s one of the most talented kids I’ve ever seen,” Watson said. “When he makes his mind up to play football, I don’t think there’s anybody in the league who can cover the kid.”

Watts has provided thumbnails of that ability in his two years with the team, but his inconsistent catching ability has prevented him from showing the NFL what Watson sees. This year, in the absence of the unhappy Ashley Lelie, Watts’ opportunity to turn his young career around hasn’t arrived as much as it has slapped him in the face.

During the team’s three offseason minicamps this summer, the Marshall alum earned Mike Shanahan’s attention by displaying an improved ability to catch. His timing was perfect, considering the Broncos expect Lelie to be somewhere else when they begin training camp later this month.

The window of opportunity has widened, but the soft-spoken Watts refuses to greet the improved scenario with bright eyes.

“There’s no comfort level I can be where I can say I’m happy,” said Watts, who caught two passes for 22 yards in the first six games last year before he was declared inactive for the rest of the season due to a lack of production.

“Each year I take it as I’m fighting for a position. If I’m No. 1, I’m fighting to keep the position. If I’m not, I’m fighting for number one. So it doesn’t matter.”

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But the reason Watts still has a fight at Dove Valley is because he refused to go away. Instead of digressing after he was pulled from the roster, he improved to the point where Shanahan thinks he can be a reliable option.

Last season, it was reasonable to think Watts would never improve. The glaring knock on him the past two years has been his hands — a weakness for which there is little patience in the NFL.

And for Watts, the stigma went even deeper.

When he was in high school, a car accident injured a nerve in his right arm that permanently limited the use and flexibility of his hand.

Although the problem didn’t affect him in college, where he made 272 catches for 4,031 yards and 47 touchdowns, those looking for a reason for his drops had an obvious target — and it was one that couldn’t be remedied.

Watts has always rejected the notion.

“I’m here, and I’ve fought through it,” he said. “It makes it harder, but I won’t ever use it as an excuse because I don’t believe that’s where my problem is.”

Shanahan thinks there is a less dramatic reason for Watts’ troubles. He feels they were linked to his timidity within the Broncos offense, and predicts they will vanish with experience.

“It takes more time for some guys to get their confidence,” Shanahan said. “For Darius, I see him feeling a lot more comfortable when he doesn’t have to think. He can react. A lot of times when I guy can do that, catching a ball becomes much easier.

“He still has great speed. He’s very explosive, and he can do things a lot of receivers can’t.”

If Watts realizes such potential, his presence will be welcomed into a Broncos receiving corps veteran Rod Smith has carried since the turn of the century.

With the addition of former Green Bay Packers receiver Javon Walker at No. 2, an effective Watts could make the unit one of the most dangerous in the NFL.

His path is far from set. In training camp, Watts will battle impressive rookie Brandon Marshall and dark horses Charlie Adams and Todd Devoe for the third spot. The situation is muddied further if Lelie returns to the team.

But Watts’ talent has never been a mystery to the Broncos coaches, one of whom was one of the best pass-catchers of the 1980s. To Watson, Watts is a few good grabs away from being a star.

“Every player grows at a different pace, and some kids just take longer to get to a point where they can play” he said. “I’ll tell you what: Darius came here this summer ready to play ball.”

Bill Wilson can be reached at [email protected].

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Wednesday, May 17, 2006 A Long Time Coming Just Practicing Proves to Be a Significant Step Forward for Webster

By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Nate Webster had waited long enough to make a play.

He'd waited through two years spent almost entirely on the sidelines -- two seasons ruined by a torn patella tendon and rehabilitation subsequent surgeries that turned his fondest dream into his fiercest on-field nightmare.

So when he stepped onto the Broncos' practice field Tuesday morning, he was eager merely to participate after playing in just one game since September 2004. The fact that he intercepted a pass was an added bonus, but perhaps never would a practice pick be more welcomed than it was for the seven-year veteran in his first on-field work since signing with Denver two weeks ago.

"It was a housewarming gift," Webster said. "Not bad at all -- a good start."

And exactly what he needed most after the most frustrating phase of his career closed earlier this offseason when he and the Cincinnati Bengals parted ways after two years. Webster's arrival via free agency from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers piqued interest two years ago, and he stepped into the Bengals defense as their starting middle linebacker.

Through three games, Webster led Cincinnati in tackles with 26, had notched a sack and forced a fumble. Finally, after four Tampa Bay seasons that were spent mostly in a reserve role, Webster flourished. The chance to be the long-term fulcrum of Cincinnati's defense was in place.

All that changed late in a 23-9 loss to the .

"One minute and 30 seconds left in the game," Webster said, recounting the exact moment that his career detoured into rehabilitation. "There's been a lot of hard times."

Worse than what his injury kept him from doing on the field was how it hindered him away from it.

"There was a portion of my life when it was really bad; it was around Christmastime (in 2004), and I couldn't run around with my kids and have fun with them," he said. "It was hard for them to understand. They wanted me to get up and play with them. My wife was pregnant at the time, so I couldn't get around the house as I wanted to."

Webster hoped he'd be able to return to action by the first week of the 2005 regular season. That week -- and the 14 that followed -- passed without the chance to even glimpse the playing field as his recovery continued. The Bengals didn't place him on injured reserve, though, keeping him eligible to play again that year.

That chance finally came on Dec. 24 against the . The cliché about absence, the heart and fondness doesn't come close to describing the flood of emotions that overwhelmed

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Webster as he ran onto Paul Brown Stadium's field for the first time in nearly 15 months.

"It was like a dream come true -- winning a battle that you felt like you were losing for a long time," Webster said. "Just walking out, looking at the crowd and seeing the people in the stands, you get kind of choked up. Your heart starts beating and your stomach starts boiling a little bit. It brings back a lot of fond memories that you had -- memories of your childhood dreams."

Dreams that have been resuscitated in Denver.

"Since I've been here, it's been nothing but love -- between the coaches, the training staff and those in the strength and conditioning program," Webster said. "It seems like they're first-class as far as working together and coming up with the right formula for me to be able to get on the plan to do whatever it takes to get back on the field."

For now, that spot is at middle linebacker, where he said that he backed up Al Wilson as quarterback camp began.

"I felt really good," he said. "It felt good to be out there with the team, with the guys, running around there, getting the team camaraderie.

"I'm just glad to be a part of it."

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Article Launched: 8/04/2006 01:00 AM

denver broncos

Denver enjoys nickel riches

By Bill Williamson Denver Post Staff Writer DenverPost.com

The defense was closing in, with linebacker D.J. Williams leading the charge. He raced in and knocked the ball away. The intended receiver slowly shuffled back to the huddle.

"That a way, D.J.," yelled Broncos linebacker Ian Gold. "That a boy, D.J."

For every good play executed by Williams, Gold's playing time could be in peril. But Gold knows the Broncos benefit from having Williams on the field as much as possible. He makes things happen. Just as Gold does.

It's a "thank goodness we have this" dilemma. Williams and Gold are at the center of a classic "what do you do?"

Last year, because of the return of a healthy and productive Gold, Williams - a 2004 NFL defensive rookie of the year candidate - didn't play as much as the Broncos had hoped. The goal is to get Williams, a former first- round pick, on the field more. Defensive coordinator Larry Coyer estimates Williams played about 700 of Denver's 1,100 defensive plays last season. At issue most is the nickel defense, when Gold plays while Williams sits.

"I got what D.J. wants and he's going to work hard to get it," Gold said. "It helps the team to have this type of talent."

To help get more from Williams, the Broncos are planning to use him strictly at strongside linebacker in the base defense. The strongside linebacker typically lines up on the same side as the tight end. Williams was a weakside linebacker as a rookie. He and Gold switched back and forth often last season.

However, because the basis of the nickel defensive package is to have only two linebackers but five defensive backs, the Williams-Gold rub will come into play often. NFL defenses are in the nickel package a majority of the time. Gold and middle linebacker Al Wilson - anchors of one of most respected linebacking corps in the NFL - are the nickel players. That leaves Williams on the sideline if Gold and Wilson aren't brought out for an occasional breather.

"That's all stuff we have to figure out," Coyer said. "It's a great problem to have. We have a great young player who needs to be on the field more, but we also have great players like Ian and Al who we have to keep on the field. The issue is, we have to keep those guys on the field and get D.J. on it more. That's the job."

Denver coach Mike Shanahan concurs.

"D.J. will play more," said Shanahan, who has made a point of saying how valuable Williams is on the field.

The Broncos could stay in their base defense longer or occasionally use 3-4 alignments.

"There's things you can do," Denver safety John Lynch said. "I think the lesson learned last year was that we have to find a way for D.J. to get more time."

Coyer said he was impressed by the work ethic shown by Williams in offseason workouts. He said Williams came to work with the mission of getting on the field more. Williams said he wasn't discouraged by the lack of playing time last season because he sees the big picture.

"I do want to help the team as much as I can," Coyer said. "It's a unique situation here. Whoever we have out there, the team is going to be better and that's a situation I can be satisfied with."

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Because of the presence of Gold and Wilson, Coyer may have to keep that sunny disposition.

"Here's the bottom line: We need to get D.J. out here more; we all know that," Denver cornerback Champ Bailey said. "But when you do that, everybody would be asking, 'Where's Ian?' or, 'Where's Al?' I guess having three great linebackers can be a problem, but I'll take that type of problem."

Staff writer Bill Williamsoncan be reached at 303-820-5450 or [email protected].

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Rocky Mountain News

To print this page, select File then Print from your browser URL: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nfl/article/0,2777,DRMN_23918_4835657,00.html Broncos Williams welcomes challenge

Risk of returning kicks is draw for cornerback

By Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News July 11, 2006

It's your classic risk-vs.-reward scenario.

Darrent Williams is almost certainly the Broncos' best punt returner and, perhaps, the team's top option to run back kickoffs.

He also happens to be a starting cornerback, whose value defensively was demonstrated when he missed the final month of the 2005 season because of a right groin injury.

Whether he should coexist in both realms in 2006 will be one of the key questions to be answered when the Broncos report to training camp July 27.

"If he ends up being the best returner, it'd be great to have him back there, but that's obviously a (coaching) decision, whether or not you want to risk one of your starting corners over there," Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist said, referring not only to coach Mike Shanahan but defensive assistants Larry Coyer and Bob Slowik. "But Darrent's certainly got the talent to do that."

During the Broncos' minicamp last week, only Williams and receiver Charlie Adams were back to receive the ball during punt-protection drills.

Several other players figure to at least get practice repetitions to sort out the situation.

Rod Smith and Champ Bailey have the requisite skill set but, like Williams, are starters. Receiver David Terrell is inexperienced fielding punts but, special-teams coach Ronnie Bradford said, "has shown a real knack," thus making him a candidate.

Rookies Brandon Marshall and Domenik Hixon, who has missed most of the team's organized offseason practices because of a left foot problem, also figure to get looks.

Yet Williams made it clear that, though he understands concerns about possibly spreading himself too thin, he'd be "kind of disappointed to not at least be doing punt returns" because he has a "passion" for that aspect of special teams.

He noted other starters have roles beyond their specific positions, so he shouldn't be any different.

The only flaw in that mind-set is that, unlike those other starters, defenders are trying to land the perfect shot on Williams to dislodge the ball the second it hits his hands.

"It is more dangerous," Williams said of returning punts, an area in which the Broncos ranked 11th in the NFL last season with an 8.5-yard average per attempt. "But that's why I like it so much, because it is such a risk."

Bradford maintained he has no marching orders from Shanahan to find an option other than Williams.

"Absolutely none," he said. "I mean, Jake Plummer's my starting holder. It's one of those things where (Shanahan) says, if it's going to make us successful, let's go with it."

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Still, Bradford conceded, there must be a balance so Williams doesn't get worn out. It could lead to a scenario in which the cornerback gets his wish on punts but is held off the kickoff return team.

As Bradford noted, kickoffs are "one of those things where we have more guys that can catch the ball end over end than catching spirals out of the sky."

The Broncos were sure-handed in that situation last season but never got much explosiveness once the ball was fielded. They averaged only 20.7 yards per kickoff return, better than only seven teams, and their resulting average starting point per drive was the 25 1/2-yard line, which ranked in a tie for 28th with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Only six of 47 returns netted 30 yards or better, with Williams responsible for four on 18 attempts.

Cornerback Roc Alexander and Adams also handled the role and will get auditions again in camp, with running backs Cedric Cobbs, Mike Bell and Ron Dayne likely joining that group.

"Would I love to use Darrent back there every single time? Sure," Bradford said. "Did we expect him to be our starting corner his second year in the league? No. It's just one of those things where when we got him in the second round of the draft, I thought I had a returner for awhile. It's funny how things work out."

The dark-horse option to possibly protect Williams is Hixon. A fourth- round pick out of the University of Akron, Hixon was one of five college players to score on a kickoff and punt return two years ago.

His 705 kick-return yards last season were third-most in Division I-A. He's expected to be full speed once training camp opens.

"As far as explosiveness and speed goes, he certainly has the tools to do that," Sundquist said of Hixon's abilities as a returner. "Whether or not he can transfer that remains to be seen."

Many happy returns?

The Broncos' leading return specialists last season:

PUNTS Player No. FC Yds. Avg. Long TD KICKOFFS No. Yds. Avg. Long TD

Darrent Williams 17 12 148 8.7 52 0 18 431 23.9 36 0

Charlie Adams 16 5 133 8.3 32 0 10 218 21.8 32 0

Roc Alexander 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 261 21.8 31 0

Team totals 33 17 281 8.5 52 0 47 975 20.7 36 0

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