Sweet science preparing Broncos’ Jones for first camp By Ryan O’Halloran The Denver Post July 15, 2018

Sometime between throwing a right cross, left jab and consecutive uppercuts, Sam Jones’ Chicago Bulls cap flew off his head during a boxing session at Six-Zero Strength & Fitness last Wednesday morning in Centennial.

Was losing the hat a sign Jones, a Broncos rookie guard, was grinding away in preparation for training camp? Sure.

But, Jones said with a laugh: “In (a) real (fight), it probably means I would have been knocked out.”

During their workout, supervised by former Colorado and NFL offensive lineman Matt McChesney, Jones and Broncos tackle/guard Billy Turner focused on balance and technique before Matt’s brother, Zach, an MMA fighter, put the players through three sets of boxing work.

Since he was 15, Jones has worked with McChesney, who started Six-Zero and trains high school, college and professional players. A Highlands Ranch native, Jones played at Arizona State and was a sixth-round draft pick by the Broncos.

In the six weeks between the offseason program and training camp, Jones isn’t looking to add strength.

“It’s not lifting and running; it’s all technique-based,” Matt McChesney said. “Even the boxing is more suited to defensive and offensive line play – foot transition, extension through your hands, moving to stay in front of your target and understanding different angles.”

In addition to Jones and Turner, Broncos guards Connor McGovern and Ron Leary, Tampa Bay center Ryan Jensen and defensive tackle Mike Pennel train frequently at Six-Zero.

Jones will start camp as one of 16 offensive linemen on the roster. He needs a terrific preseason to make the team — and that may not be enough. Leary is the projected left guard starter and McGovern, Menelik Watson and possibly Max Garcia will compete at right guard.

Jones worked primarily at left guard during the offseason program and a good camp could turn into a practice squad spot.

“It’s a job and you have to approach it like a job, but I’m like a kid on Christmas every day,” Jones said of his early pro experience.

McChesney said “consistency every day,” will be Jones’ key to making an impression.

“Technique is always a work in progress and it’s hard when there are no pads on because it’s not real football,” Jones said. “But I feel good about where I’m at heading into camp.”

After the workout, Jones was headed for the hot and cold tubs. The boxing is all-around beneficial for offensive linemen.

“It helps guys stay balanced in their stance, use their hands and separate their upper and lower (of the body) so they can exploit not only their athletic ability, but take advantage of all the (mistakes) by the defensive player,” McChesney said.

Around the league

Broncos on TV. For out-of-the-region Broncos fans, they will be able to see two preseason games live on NFL Network – the Aug. 11 opener against Minnesota and the Aug. 30 finale at Arizona. The network is showing 15 live games during the preseason.

Lousy as home favorite. One of our favorite preseason magazines is Marc Lawrence’s Playbook. Two Broncos-related notes: 1) As a home favorite against the spread last year, the Broncos were 1-3-1 – tying the Chargers, beating Oakland and losing to the Giants, Cincinnati and Kansas City. 2) After losing to the Giants 23-10 as a 13 1/2-point favorite in Week 6, the Broncos were never favored by more than three points the rest of the year. That loss spooked the odds-makers and rightfully so – it was the start of an eight-game skid.

Manning looks to rebound. Four losing seasons out of the last five years has left Giants Eli Manning’s career record at 111-103. But now 37 and seven years removed from his last playoff win, Manning was endorsed by new general manager Dave Gettleman and coach Pat Shurmur, who opted against taking a quarterback second overall in the draft (tailback Saquon Barkley was the pick). “The great thing about football is what you did last year doesn’t matter,” Manning told NJ Advanced Media. “It’s all about what you can do this year. I’m excited about the guys that we have. Everybody is excited to get rolling and see what we can do.”

Zero to 10 (interceptions). In seven seasons, Chicago Prince Amukamara has seven interceptions, including none with Jacksonville and the Bears the last two years. But … “I’m really looking for a 10-pick season,” Amukamara said, per the Chicago Tribune. “I’m reaching for the stars, right? But at the same time, I know what I’m capable of. I know how hard I’ve worked. And every year I keep putting those goals out here. Because when it finally does happen, I can circle back to the time I said it.” The Bears’ eight interceptions last year were tied with Atlanta for third-fewest in the NFL. Cleveland had seven and Oakland five.

Permanently disgraced. New Carolina owner David Tepper said he is “contractually obligated,” to leave the statue of former owner Jerry Richardson in front of the Panthers’ stadium. Richardson was recently fined by the league for sexual harassment allegations that were found to be true. He will never do it, but commissioner Roger Goodell should order the statue taken down. If the statue – nearly 13 feet tall – stays up, it will serve as a permanent reminder of Richardson’s disgraceful behavior. Vincent Jackson closes NFL career proud of Colorado roots, excited for what’s ahead By Kyle Frederickson The Denver Post July 15, 2018

Vincent Jackson grew up on military on bases in Louisiana, Arizona, Germany and Colorado before an NFL career spanning a dozen seasons between the San Diego Chargers and .

Two countries. Five states. Naturally, the former three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver often gets the same question: Where do you consider home?

“I’ve always referred to my hometown as Colorado Springs,” Jackson told The Denver Post.

The Centennial State welcomes that distinction — especially with Jackson’s place among former Colorado high school athletes who enjoyed long-lasting professional success.

Jackson, a Widefield High School and University of Northern Colorado alumnus, made his NFL retirement official in May to complete a career with 540 catches for 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns. Six times he eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving. The only comparable hometown wide receiver in history is former Wheat Ridge star Dave Logan, who compiled 263 catches for 4,250 yards between the Browns and Broncos (1976- 84).

For Jackson, though, success is measured by more than on-field production.

“For me to play 12 years and never have any major surgeries, I still feel like I lucked out,” Jackson said. “It’s a blessing.”

It all began at Widefield, a Class 4A high school in Colorado Springs, where a late-blooming Jackson caught the football and basketball recruiting attention as a senior of UNC and the Ivy League’s Columbia. Jackson, the son of Army veterans Terence and Sherry Jackson, had no intention of banking on sports for his future. But Columbia couldn’t offer an athletic scholarship. UNC did. Jackson made the logical choice.

“I didn’t want to put that burden on my parents to create that debt and I didn’t want it for myself,” Jackson said. “I wanted to at least get what little financial aid I could through athletics. Then I could probably make up the rest through academics (scholarships).”

When Jackson played mostly special teams at UNC his first two seasons, some around him advised him to transfer. “That wasn’t my focus,” Jackson said. “I really just wanted to get a good education.” And his dedication was vindicated with a school-record 21 touchdowns and FCS All-American honors as a senior.

The Chargers picked Jackson No. 61 overall in the 2005 NFL draft, but Jackson retained his sense of future after football. While some teammates pursued vacation during rare breaks, Jackson made consistent contacts with the business world through charity events, public speaking opportunities and any other available setting.

“The platform that we have as professional athletes, we get invited to a lot of unique places and some doors get opened for us that don’t for the general public,” Jackson said. “It’s a gift. I didn’t take that for granted at all.”

For all Jackson’s success, his playing days ended on a sour note. He appeared in 10 games in 2015 and then just five in 2016, both seasons ending with injury, and Jackson was unable to secure a free-agent contract last fall. He remains confident in his football ability, but decided it was best to hang up his cleats.

“It’s not the performance that changed,” Jackson said, “it’s just the priorities.”

Jackson, 35, is a now a husband and father first with his wife, Lindsay, and their three young children — Carter (4), Amaya (3) and Dominick (1) — living in Tampa Bay. The business connections Jackson made during NFL offseasons led to lucrative opportunities. He’s the CEO of CTV Capital, a multi-pronged management firm specializing in development, finance and real estate, in addition to Jackson’s ownership stakes in seven restaurants nationally. He also founded a nonprofit, Jackson in Action 83 Foundation, which provides support to military families and their children.

Jackson’s latest challenge is serving as pseudo-adviser to current NFL players on making the transition for life after football. He’s spoken twice in formal team settings and frequently takes calls and lunches with individual players seeking guidance.

Jackson can tell his own story as an example. A Colorado kid who won’t be defined by football success alone.

“I had a great career. It was awesome. I have so many great memories,” Jackson said. “But man, I am so excited for this next step.”

HOMETOWN HEROES A look back at some of the most successful professional athletes to come from Colorado high schools, in addition to Vincent Jackson.

Chauncey Billups (George Washington): Appeared in 17 NBA seasons. … 2004 NBA Finals champion and series MVP. … Tallied 17,736 career points (regular season and playoffs). … Jersey retired for the Detroit Pistons and Colorado Buffaloes.

Amy Van Dyken (Cherry Creek): Colorado State’s NCAA Swimmer of the Year in 1994. … Six-time Olympic Gold medal winner. … Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame and United States Olympic Hall of Fame. … Suffered a paralyzing spinal cord injury in 2014.

Roy Halladay (Arvada West): Appeared in 16 MLB seasons. … No. 17 overall draft pick in 1995. … Pitched a perfect game for the Phillies in 2010. … Threw a no-hitter in his first postseason start. … Died in a 2017 plane crash into the Gulf of Mexico.

Byron “Whizzer” White (Wellington): Played football, basketball and baseball at CU. … First-round NFL draft selection in 1938. … Twice led the league in rushing. … Later served as an intelligence officer in the Navy and as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.

Hale Irwin (Boulder): Two-time All-Big Eight defensive back at CU … Won the 1967 NCAA individual golf national championship … Winner of three U.S. Opens, 17 other PGA Tour events and 25 senior titles … Widely considered a top-five golfer between 1975 and 1979. The wait must end: Pat Bowlen up for subcommittee vote next month By Mike Klis 9 News July 15, 2018

Enough is enough.

If the Pro Football Hall of Fame is truly for those who irrefutably compiled a "message of excellence EVERYWHERE," as it emphasizes in its mission statement, then a contributor subcommittee must nominate Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen when it meets August 23 in Canton, Ohio.

“There are very few people in the modern history of the four major sports who were winners as Mr. B was,’’ said Dick Ebersol, the former NBC Sports chairman who was active during Bowlen’s long reign as head of the league’s broadcast committee. “It’s incalculable the winning he has accomplished. I mean it’s hard to believe. And the fact that he maintained it decade after decade after decade is pretty awesome.’’

The following chart of the six winningest owners in NFL history suggest Ebersol was not guilty of hyperbole.

Owner, team …………..… Total wins … Seasons … Wins/Year … PCT

Bud Adams, Hou/Ten ………. 409 ……..… 54 …………. 7.6 …...... 488

Ralph Wilson, Bills ………….. 390 ………... 54 ……...…. 7.2 ...... … .464

Lamar Hunt, Chiefs …………. 381 ……...… 47 ………… 8.1 .....…… .534

Art Modell, Cle/Bal ……….…. 353 ………... 43 ………… 8.2 ….....… .530

Pat Bowlen, Broncos ……….. 348 .……….. 34 ……….. 10.2 ….....… .602

Al Davis, Raiders ……………. 348 ………... 40 ………... 8.7 …...... 543

The most overriding characteristic among the all-time winningest owners was longevity. Bowlen, who was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2014, was quantity and unmatched quality. He is easily the most efficient winner among the winningest owners.

***************

Team success, though, represents just one half of Bowlen’s Hall of Fame candidacy. There was also Bowlen’s contribution to the league. He served on 15 NFL committees – including as chairman of the two biggies, Broadcasting and Management Council (which led collective bargaining agreement negotiations with players’ union boss Gene Upshaw). Only two Hall of Fame owners – Pittsburgh’s Dan Rooney (18) and Kansas City’s Lamar Hunt (16) -- served on more committees.

Perhaps more than any other, it was the vision of the Broncos’ owner that elevated the NFL from reported revenues of $1.3 billion in 1990 to $13.2 billion in 2016.

“I feel that what really changed the NFL for the better, what took it from the old NFL to the new NFL, was the combination of Pat and Jerry (Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys),’’ said David Hill, who oversaw the NFL on Fox from 1994 to 2012. “The two of them had brought a whole new way of thinking, especially about media to the game.

“Before it had been controlled by Art Modell. And Art Modell in 1994 had come from the Mad Men era of media. He had been very good. But what Pat and Jerry realized was the NFL had to change its approach to media. Specifically, when it came to finding younger viewers.’’

Said Ebersol: “So much of what’s carrying the league today, it’s unbelievable television success, which I attribute largely to Pat and Jerry from the beginning of their time on the TV committee in 1992 or ‘93 on.''

You can almost hear what football fans are thinking. When two of the all-time best TV sports executives are crediting both Pat and Jerry, most people probably think it was Jerry. The Hall of Fame subcommittee that nominated Jones, and not Bowlen, for 2017 election no doubt heard, ‘Jerry.’ Pat? He must have been Jerry’s henchman.

“It was the other way around,’’ Hill said. “Pat was the brains; Jerry was the muscle.’’

Ebersol had once called Bowlen the “Father of Sunday Night Football,” the top-rated NBC weekly series that beginning in 2006 included flexible scheduling so it could avoid late-season clunker matchups.

Ebersol and Hill credit the Bowlen/Jones tandem for bringing in Fox, and its young demographics, rather than extend long-time partner CBS in 1994, a move the players should know precipitated a 521 percent salary cap jump from $34 million that season to $177.2 million in 2018.

Paul Tagliabue, the NFL commissioner from 1989-2006, once said Bowlen was the only owner who held a major role in the league’s top four components of television revenue, stadium construction, international growth and labor peace.

“I think Pat was the commissioner’s favorite owner if for no other reason he was always available to work on all these committees,’’ Ebersol said. “There are owners who have done a good job on a committee or two but all the various committees Pat was on – and in the end one of the reasons he went off the TV committee was because Roger (Goodell) really needed him for labor (negotiations).’’

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Bowlen’s nomination by the Hall of Fame contributor subcommittee seems certain next month for the simplest of reasons: It’s his turn.

The Broncos’ owner finished third in 2017 when the HOF subcommittee made two, highly questionable selections of Jones and Tagliabue.

Jones was a questionable choice because he is still active. It’s not wise to honor active members for posterity because they still have time to sully their legacies. And sure enough, Jones was reprimanded and fined millions a year later for trying to undermine commissioner Roger Goodell.

Tagliabue did not receive the necessary 80 percent vote from the final Hall of Fame voting body for election, ostensibly because his NFL medical advisor Eliot Pellman outrageously denied a connection between playing football and long-term head injuries.

For the Class of 2018, when only one contributor was selected, Mr. B finished second to general manager Bobby Beathard.

For the 2019 Hall of Fame class, there will again be two contributors selected by the subcommittee when it meets next month. Bowlen is the favorite to get one nod. The other nomination figures to be either former New York Giants’ GM George Young or longtime Cowboys’ scout Gil Brandt.

Bowlen should get finally get the HOF nomination, right ladies and gentlemen?

“(Bleep) yeah,’’ Hill said.

“I think this is his year,’’ said Shannon Sharpe, a Hall of Fame tight end who played the bulk of his career with the Broncos. “I thought last year should have been his year. What I hate is – whenever he goes in, it’s going to be a great experience for his family, especially with what Mrs. B is all the sudden going through (with her own recent diagnosis of Alzheimer’s). But it would have been really nice for Mr. B to get this award and he know about it.’’

If Bowlen is to be nominated by the contributor subcommittee next month, and then elected by the full voting body next February on LIII eve in Atlanta, he would not be expected to attend.

With ratings sagging for the interminably long Hall of Fame induction ceremony (five hours of verbosity last year), perhaps Bowlen’s condition is one reason why there’s been no rush to nominate him. Or perhaps it was Bowlen’s low-key, reticent personality – some confused his shy nature as aloofness – that explains why the more accessible and quotable Jones leapfrogged into Canton’s hallowed halls last year.

“Mr. B stayed in the background,’’ Sharpe said. “He was like, I hired these people and coaches to put this team together and give us the best chance to win. I don’t need to address the team. I don’t need to address the media. I’m the owner. That’s good enough for me.

“Whereas some of these other owners, they want to be out front when things go well. That was never Mr. B.’’

Nope. The first chance Bowlen had to accept applause from a national audience – after his Broncos stunned the world by defeating the heavily favored Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XXXII –he immediately demurred to his favorite player, John Elway.

“This One’s For John!’’ Bowlen announced.

You could sense Bowlen’s relief as he handed over the Lombardi Trophy to Elway, an exchange that backed him away from center stage.

“He didn’t take any (B.S.),’’ Hill said. “He was a straight shooter. He was smart. His public persona wasn’t gregarious but he had a huge heart. He hid it well.’’

Even the hated divisional rival Oakland Raiders found a soft spot in Bowlen’s heart. The compassion was kindled not for , the Raiders’ ever litigious owner, but for league's sake.

For at least the second time, Davis and the NFL were embroiled in a lawsuit after he moved his franchise from Los Angeles back to Oakland in 1995.

Amy Trask became the Raiders’ chief executive officer in 1997. There were frustrations when at one of the league’s meetings she received an olive branch from a surprising source.

“Pat approached me and said, ‘I understand what you’re trying to accomplish. I want to help you,’’’ Trask said. “He was the first person associated with any team or the league office to extend himself in that manner.

“He both recognized what I wanted to do and wanted to accomplish and he very graciously and generously offered to assist me in that regard. I don’t think that was the easiest thing for him to do.

“He was extending himself to lend a hand for something he felt was in the best interest of the league.’’

Pat Bowlen's heart was with the NFL. Did he help? Trask didn’t know what Bowlen may have done behind the scenes. But eventually, the Raiders and the league did reach a settlement.

****************

Even when including their disappointing 5-11 record in 2017, Bowlen’s Broncos have had more Super Bowl appearances (7) than losing seasons (6). That’s enough to get his bust bronzed even if he never lifted a finger for the good of the league.

But there was so much more. No owner during the league’s transitional period from the late-1980s through the start of NBC’s Sunday Night Football in 2006 did more for the NFL than Pat Bowlen.

“He was a tough man who fortunately for those he let under veil, so to speak, he was a straight shooter,’’ Ebersol said. “He never, ever, ever told an untruth. And he expected you to do the same. Once he saw I was doing that I became his cohort and his friend.

“And yet, even in negotiations for what turned out to be Sunday Night football, he kept telling me, “That’s not going to do it. That’s not good enough.’ He always thought I had $50 million more in my pocket. Which I didn’t. But that didn’t stop him from always pushing. He was always an NFL owner, first, and then a friend, second.’’

The Hall of Fame contributor subcommittee meets next month in Canton. Why Bowlen wasn’t put forth for Hall of Fame election years ago is a baffling travesty but for the sake of maintaining excellence, the wait must end. Broncos guard Ron Leary healthy and ready for training camp By Jon Heath 9 News July 15, 2018

Denver Broncos offensive guard Ron Leary missed the final five games of the 2017 season with a foot injury. As a precaution, the Broncos held Leary out of OTAs and minicamp this spring so he could fully recover.

It sounds like Denver made the right decision.

Appearing on Orange & Blue 760, the team’s official radio station, Leary said he will be ready to go when training camp begins later this month.

“I’m good now, I’ll be there, July 27th like everybody else ready to roll!” Leary told Brandon Krisztal and Matt McChesney on Thursday.

Leary, 29, signed a four-year, $36 million contract with the Broncos last offseason. He played right guard last season with Max Garcia on the left side. This year, it wouldn’t be surprising if Leary is moved to left guard, his more natural position.

If Leary does move to the left side, third-year guard Connor McGovern could potentially start on the right side, sending Garcia to the bench.

Leary allowed two sacks in 11 games last season, per STATS. NFLPA exec on legalized betting: 'Serious consequences' to privacy By David Purdum ESPN July 15, 2018

An executive for the NFLPA on Friday told a room of state legislators and gaming industry officials that players are concerned about what expanded legal sports betting means for them in their private and on- field lives.

"There are serious consequences, particularly for the athletes," said Casey Schwab, vice president of business and legal affairs for the NFLPA. "Because of those consequences, the athlete's voice must be heard, particularly as we contemplate sports betting in the country."

Representatives from the player associations for MLB, NBA and NHL also were in attendance for the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States summer meeting in Cleveland. Schwab said the players' unions from the respective leagues are on the same page and are focused on the protection of athletes - - their privacy, their data and their public perception -- more than monetization opportunities when it comes to sports betting.

In May, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on state-sponsored sports betting. Sportsbooks have opened in Delaware and New Jersey, and casinos in Mississippi and West Virginia are expected to be up and running by the start of football season in September. Many more states have introduced legislation aimed at legalizing sports betting.

Players believe the new landscape will add to the venom already directed at them by fantasy sports participants and bettors. Veteran free-agent offensive lineman Eric Winston, who this spring was re- elected as NFLPA president for a third term, said that the "dehumanization of athletes" is a weekly occurrence on social media after games.

"A lot of people look at us as -- I don't know if it's subhuman -- but not necessarily human, not necessarily having those feelings those issues that everyone else is having," Winston said in a video presentation at the conference.

Schwab used LeBron James' decision to join the Los Angeles Lakers and its impact on the NBA title odds as an example of the need to protect the privacy of athletes. The Lakers' odds were as high as 20-1 prior to landing James, but shortened to 7-2 after the decision.

"That information -- what our athletes are doing, where they're going -- has a price tag on it," Schwab said. "And as more money goes into sports betting, that price tag goes up."

Schwab said the players' union and the NFL agree on the current priorities, especially when it comes to protecting the public's perception of the integrity of the game.

"It's the basic premise -- the game ain't rigged," Schwab said. "Everyone's trying their hardest. From the athlete's perspective, it's slightly nuanced, and I would argue ... that the athlete's perspective is the most important."

Las Vegas bookmakers, who also spoke at the conference, said their interests lie with game integrity, as well. Art Manteris, vice president of race and sports at Station Casinos in Nevada, pointed to the lack of transparency regarding James' hand injury in the NBA Finals as a concern about integrity. The former Cavs star suffered the injury during the series, but it wasn't disclosed until after Cleveland was eliminated.

MLBPA president Tony Clark, in an op-end in the Cleveland Plain Dealer, wrote that there is a need to establish disclosure standards "that provide a measure of transparency to gamblers, while preserving player privacy and the game's competitive integrity."

"Fans revere athletes who play hurt," Clark wrote. "Will that be true going forward? How do we balance a team's right to gain a competitive edge and a state or league's interest in selling gamblers as much information as possible?"

Schwab said that while athlete protection is the priority, he realizes that legal sports betting also presents potential opportunities for players. The current NFL gambling policy prohibits players from doing deals with entities affiliated with gambling. The players' association has looked at potential alternative opportunities, including using their biometric data as content for a subscription product for fans and bettors.

"I look at the landscape for commercial opportunities," Schwab said, "and I don't see a pot of gold." Here's the catch: NFL refs thought they were right all along By Schuyler Dixon Associated Press July 15, 2018

Walt Coleman doesn't see the revamped catch rule as a big change for NFL game officials because the veteran referee believes they've already been calling catches the new way.

If anything, Coleman figures there will be fewer reviews of their rulings.

"Most of the calls that seemed to create the most controversy, we ruled them correctly and then they were overturned on replay," Coleman said Friday as officials gathered for their annual preseason meeting in the Dallas area. "From our standpoint, we're just going to continue to officiate the plays like we have."

League owners unanimously approved the changes in April — more than three years after Dez Bryant's infamous catch that wasn't in Dallas' playoff loss at Green Bay, and just a few months since Pittsburgh's Jesse James had a late go-ahead touchdown taken away in a loss to New England that damaged the Steelers' hopes for the AFC's top seed.

Essentially, the new rule eliminates the ground as a factor on catches while establishing three main criteria:

—having control of the ball;

—getting two feet down or another body part;

—making a football move, such as taking a third step or extending the ball.

On the plays involving Bryant and James, the ball moved slightly after hitting the ground as they extended it forward, even though they never lost control of it. Both were ruled catches and overturned on review.

"I don't think it was one thing," senior vice president of officiating Al Riveron said. "I think we got to a point where fans, the office, coaches, players, wanted to see more exciting plays. How do we make this particular play a catch? How do we take the Dez Bryant play and make it a catch?"

Riveron said the competition committee consulted with coaches, former players, game officials and supervisors, among others, to reach the rule change that was approved.

The committee cited overturned receptions by James and fellow tight end Zach Miller of Chicago last season among the dozens of plays they reviewed "dozens of times," according to committee chairman Rick McKay, president of the Atlanta Falcons.

Ron Torbert, going into his fifth season as a referee and ninth overall as a game official, doesn't think the new rule is just about simplicity.

"We had a good idea of what it was and how to officiate it," Torbert said. "We certainly understand that the way it was written, plays that people wanted to be a catch weren't a catch under the older rule. We understand that."

And while game officials are hesitant to share opinions on anything related to their role, they can see where fans sit with the catch rule.

"I think fans will like it more because we've got some of the greatest athletes in the world who can do things that no one else can do," Torbert said. "To be able to see them rewarded with a catch when under the old rule, it may not have been a catch, I think from that standpoint the fans will enjoy the game more."

Coleman, getting ready for his 30th NFL season, was in his third year as a referee when he called the reversal in the "tuck rule" game during the playoffs following the 2001 season. He changed what had been ruled a by New England quarterback to an incompletion, leading to a winning that sent the Patriots on their way to the first of five Super Bowl titles.

While he didn't make the call on the Bryant catch that was overturned (recently retired Gene Steratore did), Coleman saw similarities in how reactions to the two calls lingered for years. And he certainly heard from fans on the catch rule in general .

"People just didn't understand that you had to hold on to the ball going to the ground," Coleman said. "When you catch the ball and you reach out, everybody thought that should be a catch. The way the rule was written, it wasn't."

And now the way the rule is written, it is. Best of Broncos fans' letters to Annabel Bowlen By STAFF DenverBroncos.com July 15, 2018

In the days after Annabel Bowlen announced she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, four years after her husband, Broncos Owner Pat Bowlen was also diagnosed with it, we received notes from Broncos fans expressing their well wishes to her and her family. Here, we’ve collected some of the more exceptional letters for fans to read.

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Thank you and Mr. Bowlen for all these wonderful years of being able to be a Denver Broncos fan. I've been a hardcore fan since 1992 and lucky to have been a fan for all 3 of our Super Bowl wins. Without you to carry on after Mr. Bowlen had to step down, we wouldn't be world champions for a 3rd time.

Thank you and God bless.

Matthew M. (Hollywood, Florida)

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I’ve been a caregiver to my mom for 16 years. She has severe dementia and Alzheimer’s. She is 93, she is mobile, she is not in any pain, and she’s always happy. It can affect people differently.

I believe doctors and health care are always developing new technologies & medicines to combat Alzheimer’s & dementia.

You won’t go through this alone, you have a strong team of support who will always be by your side.

Ursula H. (Toronto, Ontario)

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Mrs. B ... from my heart to yours and to Mr. B as well and to the entire Bowlen family. My heart and prayers and well wishes are with all of you. You are not alone in your fight. ... Broncos Country has your back! Thank you for all that you’ve done!

Brian B. (Arvada, Colorado)

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Mrs. Bowlen, just wanted to wish you well with your health. You are a very inspirational women. Loved the strength you have showed with the challenges you have been through with your husband’s illness. That strength will help you in this fight. You’re an amazing woman!

Arlo P. (Parker, Colorado)

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Thinking of Mr. and Mrs. Bowlen and the Bowlen family at this trying time. The Broncos are a team the Bowlen family built on toughness and grit and I have no doubt they will get through this fight. Best wishes from Sydney, Australia.

Joseph M. (Sydney, Australia)

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Just want you to know I feel for the struggles you are going through and your future struggles. Life seems unfair at moments but never give up. What seems like the most impossible break has a reason, has a purpose and is beatable in one form or another. Keep positive every moment you can. Laugh a lot and love harder then you have loved in your life. Every day you are all together is worth its weight in gold and then some.

Laura S. (Dickinson, North Dakota)

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I wish you both luck in your continued battles against Alzheimer's. It is a shame that these diseases affect the best people. You have both done a great job running the Denver Broncos, and as a lifelong fan, I thank you both for that.

Nick F. (Coal Township, Pennsylvania)

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As a long time Broncos fan I want to tell you the class and grace the Bowlen family has portrayed in the NFL is second to none. You have proven we can win or lose with dignity. Thank you for setting such a high example of how we should live. I will pray for your family as this new chapter in your life continues. My father fought the same battle. Know that you are loved and admired by more people than you can imagine. Take care and God bless you.

Jane C. (Morris, Illinois)

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The whole Broncos organization and way of life has brought me years of happiness. From tossing the football to myself as a youth pretending to be John Elway to today. I am now able to instill this joy in my 4-year-old daughter who loves Jake Butt. She even prays for him at night before bed. We have recently added you to the same prayers. We love everything that you have done for the Broncos, the fans, and the greatest city on Earth. Take care and again thank you!

Justin V. (Broken Arrow, Oklahoma)

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Being born in Oklahoma, there are two teams that you cheered for. Either it was the Kansas City Chiefs or the Dallas Cowboys. I broke tradition and picked the Broncos as my team at an early age and have been a longtime fan since. I love the Broncos and the Bowlen family. You are all always in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you now and always.

LaKeeta T. (Tulsa, Oklahoma)

***

My husband was diagnosed shortly before Mr. Bowlen ... he is in his 10th year now. I am well versed in this evil disease. I’ve been a Bronco fan since 1965 and used to live in the projects near stadium. I think Mr. Bowlen and his sweet wife are the best of the best. John Elway has continued to further their legacy. My prayers and thoughts are with both of them. I know the struggle as I deal with it daily. May God bless them each and every day.

Ann D. (Amarillo, Texas)

***

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Bowlen, please know I openly wept when I heard this news. It's an awful disease and I hope it goes easy on the both of you. Words can't quite express how much you and your family have meant to this community. I'm proud to call myself a lifelong Bronco fan in part because of how amazing the Bowlen family truly is. Thank you both for putting this state first and keeping the team here. Thank you for 3 championships and being willing to spend the money it took to get great hall of famers to play here. Thank you for the years of winning and the culture that brought with it to this fine state. Colorado wouldn't be what it is without you guys and I for one will forever be grateful. Thank you for Peyton Manning and all he has brought with him. Most of all, thank you for being such amazing citizens and for standing pat in times of strife. Pat and Annabel and all the children, I wish you all nothing but the best of wishes and pray this horrible disease can be cured one day and that the cure is found to save you both from it. Thank you so much for everything.

Brandon C. (Aurora, Colorado)

***

The Bowlen family has been an incredibly important cornerstone for the Denver community my entire life. I just want both Pat and Annabel to know that they are not alone in their fight, and they have the support of every Denverite. They mean much more to this community than the Super Bowls and the pigskin. They’re both stronger than this disease. Thank you for everything. Much love to you and your children.

Nathan J. (Castle Rock, Colorado)

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Growing up a lifelong Bronco fan, words cannot express what the Broncos mean to me. It brings my family together every Sunday to watch them play win or lose (hopefully winning more than losing). I'm proud to have you guys around as the owners. You embody what everyone should strive to do to make the community better every day. What you guys are going through, having dealt with this disease in my family it hits home very hard. Broncos Country is with you guys every step of the way thinking of you and praying for you. I can't thank you guys enough for the joy the Broncos have brought during these recent years.

Matt C. (Pueblo, Colorado)

***

Dear Mrs. Bowlen,

For the last thirty-four years you and your husband have supported a city, and an entire fan base, without asking for anything in return. Your commitment to winning and being a shining example in the community has changed the lives of countless people, including myself. Now, it’s time for us to support you and your husband during this difficult time. Having lost a family member to this dreaded illness, I know all too well how difficult it is to have to contend with such a foe. I wish you, and Mr. Bowlen, the best in your fight. Broncos Country is behind you with the same fervor and support you have given us. Thank you for everything and I wish you the best of health.

Seth F. (Phoenix, Arizona)

***

Mrs. B,

When I heard the news, I was stunned. Thinking that you and Mr. B have to both be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is unfathomable. I can’t even imagine how this has affected you and your children. I have had the privilege of meeting you and most of your children.

I have an ongoing connection with the Denver Broncos, so this news, as with Mr. B, is personal.

Please know I have said a prayer for you and your children, just as I did for Mr. B.

Every time I’m in the stadium and see one of the photos of you and Mr. B holding up a Super Bowl trophy I hear John Elway yelling, “This one’s for Pat!”

Anyway, sorry for the rambling. I just needed to let you know this.

Blessings to you, Mr. B, and your children. You and Mr. B will forever a part of me!

In sadness and pride,

Brian M. (Denver)

***

Mrs. Annabel Bowlen:

Where do I even begin???

It just seemed like only yesterday when 14 years ago I actually got to meet you at the South Suburban Ice Arena in Centennial when I was with my family, who are a BIG Bronco family, because both your daughter - also named Annabel - and my sister Stephanie were figure skaters themselves and they had the same competition at the same rink and I turned to my left and there you were rooting on your daughter as I was rooting for my sister. Twice actually! LOL - because we would meet again a year or two later.

I introduced myself to you and you are such a one-of-a-kind, genuine, sweet person that people around me don't even realize that you are the wife of the Broncos’ owner. I wish I'd gotten a picture with you, but I'm sure that you are doing okay.

As for your husband Pat, he has done so much for our beloved football team that some fans I feel take for granted. He's been the Broncos owner ALL MY LIFE!!! Since 1984, I was born in September that year, but that's a different story. But what Pat has done for the Broncos is just remarkable for himself, for you and your family, the entire organization, the entire city of Denver, state of Colorado & the entire Rocky Mountain region we call Broncos COUNTRY!!!!

And what you've done for your husband lately as he's still battling Alzheimer's disease as well as your march to find a cure for this disease is second to none.

To say that I'm fortunate and lucky to have gotten to meet you is more of an understatement. But I'll also add that I'm also grateful to have gotten to meet you, Mrs. Bowlen.

You've been rooting for your family and the Broncos for a long, long time. Now, it's your turn to be rooted for as you now go through this battle.

I'm rooting for you, my family is rooting for you and everyone in Broncos Country is all behind you, Mrs. Bowlen.

Take care, God bless, and GO BRONCOS!!!

Nicholas A. (Longmont, Colorado)

***

Dear Mrs. Bowlen:

You are a strong woman, with a strong family and an amazing team behind you.

It is always said that Denver Broncos fans are the greatest in the world. We are, and we know it.

Gather the strength from all of these amazing fans, myself included, and do everything you can to fight, fight, fight like hell, to keep the Alzheimer’s monster at bay for as long as you can. There are still many things that you can accomplish. I have no doubt that your list is already written.

They say that having a positive outlook is an amazing healer. It will be hard, but try to stay positive.

My very best to you. Sending a hug from Parker to you.

Lisa S. (Parker, Colorado)

***

Mrs. Bowlen,

I applaud your courage and wish you the best in your days ahead battling this horrible disease. My parents (Ted and Pat) became Denver Bronco season ticket holders in 1970. My Dad passed away in 2015 after a courageous, heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer’s. My mother is still a season ticket holder and goes to Bronco games at 81 years old. We want you to know our entire family will be thinking of you and sending positive thoughts and prayers as you face the days ahead. God Bless you and your family.

Cathy P.T. (Colorado Springs, Colorado)

***

Dear Mrs. Bowlen,

My name is Nils, I am 20 years and I am a Broncos fan from Germany.

My first season as a member of Broncos Country ended with a excruciating loss in Super Bowl 48, but Peyton‘s record-breaking season made me happy and optimistic. My most remembered moment is (of course) the win against the Panthers in .

I thought you were a great representative for the Bowlen family and I am sure you will always remember this moment like I did.

I wish you, your husband and your family all the best, keep fighting!

Kind regards and support from Germany

Nils B. (Pelm, Germany)

***

Hey Bowlen family,

I have been a Bronco fan since the day I was born (there are pictures of me about a month old in Broncos gear watching Super Bowl XXXIII) and I have always respected Pat and Annabel as I know we are blessed to have owners who care about their fans and the city of Denver. Broncos Country will always be behind you and we wish you the best of luck. Stay Strong!

Best wishes,

Peter K. (Denver)

***

Mrs. Bowlen,

You are the epitome of grace, beauty and unbreakable strength. Everything you’ve been doing for Mr. B is true, unconditional love and as you face your own battle, please know how loved and respected you are, not only by myself but by thousands of true Broncos fans. We’re on this journey with you and I am sending my prayers of strength and love to you and your entire family. You’re in my heart, Mrs. Bowlen.

Love and prayers,

Christi H. (Medford, Oregon)

***

Dear Ms. Bowlen.

I felt in shock hearing the terrible news. Me as well as my fellow Broncos fans are sorry for the circumstances and we really worry about the health of yourself and your husband. I just want to say that I'm grateful and proud to be a Bronco fan and want to say thank you for everything that you and your family had done for the Broncos. Everyday, I'm happy with my decision of being a Bronco fan that I had made 13 years ago when I started to love the sport and find a passion that made me who I am. I'm proud to cheer to a world class organization with a winning mentality to compete every year and become the best. Unfortunately, I still haven't experienced going to Denver and to be present in the stadium, due to living to another country, but still I have hope that one day I will achieve that experience. Finally, I just want to say that I will pray for the Bowlen family to be strong and get well and for the organization to stay the same classy organization that Pat had made to become what it meant for me and for millions of people. Let's have faith in God and let the Bowlen family and the Broncos be in good hands. Always.

Thank you, Pat and Annabel Bowlen, for the memories and everything that you guys had done. You always be remembered in our hearts and we will cherish your legacy and love for this franchise!

Diego L. (Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico)

***

I have been a Broncos fan since I was seven, so you guys have been in my life for a long time. I pray for your health and well-being. I am also experiencing this disease with my mother and it's very challenging. I hope one day they will discover a cure or something that will help. Again, you guys are in my thoughts.

Best wishes,

Wendy V. (North Carolina)

***

Bowlen family,

I live myself with family members stricken with this disease. My family’s patriarch many years ago became ill with this disease. And my own grandfather has it now as well. It’s not easy. Days went by with my great- grandfather, watching us come together for him. Talkative still and often mixing me up with my Dad, he would tell the same stories of days gone by over and over again. Some part of him always remembered...

It brought my family together as we had a love for my great-grandfather...

The Broncos community is no different. We are all a part of this Mile High family. Thank you so much for your dedication, love and passion for this team.

GO BRONCOS!

Mack C. (Trinidad, Colorado)

***

Dear Mrs. Bowlen

As a Broncos Football fan, I was shocked after your announcement. But I’m sure you are strong enough to get over every bad thing that comes in your way, even if it’s the other three teams from the AFC West. Orange and Blue is always behind you.

Sending love and energy from Hungary,

Máté H. (Hungary) Scouting Texans' 2018 opponents: Broncos By Aaron Wilson Houston Chronicle July 15, 2018

Ninth in a series

As the Texans' training camp approaches, here's a quick-hit look at their opponent in Week 9, the Denver Broncos:

Key losses: CB Aqib Talib, RB C.J. Anderson, DE Jared Crick, TE Virgil Green, QB Trevor Siemian, RB Jamaal Charles.

Key additions: QB Case Keenum, DE Bradley Chubb, RB Royce Freeman, OT Jared Veldheer.

Camp outlook: Coming off a 5-11 season, the Broncos are retooling with veteran quarterback and former University of Houston standout Case Keenum. He was signed to a two-year, $36 million contract. Keenum could energize the offense and provide a boost to wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. The Broncos started three different last season: Trevor Siemian, Brock Osweiler and Paxton Lynch. None were successful.

John Elway drafted Bradley Chubb to form a pass-rushing tandem with Von Miller. The defense couldn't carry the Broncos last season. The running game hasn't been good since they cut C.J. Anderson. Royce Freeman could help the situation. The addition of tackle Jared Veldheer looks like a good one. Chris Harris anchors the secondary.

John Schnatter claims he was “pushed” to use racial slur By Mike Florio Pro Football Talk July 15, 2018

John Schnatter a/k/a Papa John saw his effort to restore his image implode this week, with the report from Forbes.com that he made racially inappropriate remarks during a conference call with a firm hired to help him turn around the way people view him. Instead of simply taking his lumps, counting his cash, and/or watching his shares of Papa John’s International, Inc. increase in value due to his departure from the company, Schnatter has some more things to say.

For starters, he says he was essentially nudged into using the racial slur that became the death knell for his time with the company he founded.

“Believe it or not . . . the agency was promoting that vocabulary, in that genre,” Schnatter said during a Friday interview with Terry Meiners of NewsRadio 840 WHAS.

“And I made it real clear, ‘Listen, we’re not gonna go there, we’re not gonna talk about this.’ And they pushed me, and it upset me, and I just said, ‘Listen, other people have used that word. I don’t, and will not use that word and people at Papa John’s don’t use that.’ And that was the comment. But they actually wanted to get into that vocabulary, and I said absolutely not.

“And, of course, part of the comments where I said somebody else said it got printed and the part where I said I never say that and I wouldn’t say that and that’s not the way I was raised, that didn’t get in it. But shame on me for even bringing it up. But the point is, you can’t use that vocabulary, you can’t use that word, and we will not, and I’m not going to, and I have not.”

But Schnatter did use it, and he doesn’t deny that he used it. Even though he says he never uses it.

Meiners (who did a very good job asking a wide variety of probing questions during the 28-minute session) asked Schnatter if he was “duped” by the people who set up the training session, and whether there was something “nefarious” at work.

In response, Schnatter didn’t specifically say that he’d been “set up” in advance, but he made it clear that he believes the firm leaked the story to Forbes.com after losing its relationship with Papa John’s. (According to the original item from Forbes.com, the Casey Wasserman-owned firm known as Laundry Service parted ways with Papa John’s, due to Schnatter’s comments during the conference call.)

At one point, Meiners directly posed to Schnatter the most obvious question about this entire debacle: “Why wouldn’t you have said, ‘I think that Colonel Sanders used the ‘N’ word’ instead of actually saying the word?”

“Well, I was just talking the way that the Colonel talked,” Schnatter said. “And, again, shame on me. And it wasn’t even done in the context of, ‘That’s 40, 50, 60 years ago.’ Because even back then, again, the way I was raised, you don’t talk that way.”

But, again, he did. Even though the radio interview was peppered with vague suggestions from Schnatter that maybe he didn’t say what he said, Schnatter admits that he said something that justified all of this. And it still remains to be seen where “all of this” leads, especially as it relates to Papa John’s partnerships with multiple NFL teams.