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Home , Art Rooney II, Dan Reeves, Jamaal Charles, Mike DeVito, Mike Zimmer, Orange Crush Defense

Paige: Dan Reeves plowed his way to prominence with the

By Woody Paige The Denver Post September 14, 2014

In 1965, Dan Reeves, an undrafted free-agent out of the University of South Carolina, was signed by the , who intended to convert him into a safety.

A year later, Reeves finished sixth in the NFL in rushing yardage as a starting and became a cover boy for Sports Illustrated as "The Unwanted Cowboy." He was quoted then as saying: "Someday I want to be a coach and own a farm."

Two days ago, Reeves told me: "What I meant to say was I wanted to be a coach, so I'd never have to go back to the farm."

Edd and Ann Reeves owned a 275-acre farm outside the county seat of Americus, Ga., and had a sickly child named Daniel Edward who spent his first six years mostly in bed and the next 12 working the farm and playing sports.

"Farming is the hardest work in the world," Reeves says. "I'd be plowing on the tractor at 11 o'clock at night with the headlights on. I didn't want anybody to find out, but I was scared of the dark. All I knew was I wanted to go off to college and not be a farmer the rest of my life."

When he was hurt as a high school senior, only one school — South Carolina — offered Danny a scholarship, and he accepted. But when he came back to be named the MVP in the state schoolboy all-star game, every university in the region — including the one he always wanted to play for (Georgia) — came calling to the farm. But his highly principled, religious father would not let his son go back on his word.

After Reeves' pro career was ruined by a knee injury, Dallas coach kept him as a player-coach. Reeves played in two Super Bowls with Dallas and served as an assistant in three — one against the Broncos in January 1978.

"I loved that Broncos 'Orange Crush' defense," he says now.

Meanwhile, in 1981, Canadian Edgar Kaiser Jr., scion of a famous steel-and- shipbuilding family, bought the Broncos. He didn't know if a football was stuffed or pumped up. He called the one former NFL player he'd met, Fran Tarkenton, and asked for advice for a new coach.

Hall of Fame quarterback Tarkenton said, according to Kaiser and Reeves, "If I owned a team, I'd hire Dan Reeves as my . I admired the way he played, and I respect him as an assistant."

Kaiser called Reeves ship to shore from his yacht.

"I didn't know who he was, and I actually never knew Tarkenton either," Reeves said. "I was shocked. Kaiser told me he was sending me a plane ticket to get to his family estate on Orcas Island (near the U.S.-Canada border). I flew from Dallas to San Francisco to Vancouver, and a seaplane met me and took me to Orcas. I thought that Tattoo from 'Fantasy Island' was going to shout, 'The plane, boss, the plane.' Now, I'm really shocked. This guy shows up at the dock in a tuxedo with a glass of champagne and tells his staff to take my luggage to New Zealand. It's taken me forever to get here, and I don't want to fly to New Zealand. That was the name of one of Edgar's guest houses."

Reeves said Kaiser never asked him a football question. "He wants to know how long a contract I want, and I said three years. He said fine. I should have asked for five. He asks if $105,000 would be about right for the first year. I said $125,000 sounded more right. I should have asked for a lot more. I asked for the final say (on personnel), and Edgar told me he didn't want me to trade a No. 1, 2 or 3 (draft choice) without his approval. We put it in the contract.

"And I was hired."

Dan's dream of being a head coach someday became reality March 10, 1981.

He had another wish granted two years and two months later.

And two No. 1s were traded ... by Kaiser. "Edgar was responsible for getting John (Elway). He called me and told me we had a chance, and wanted to know what I thought. I was all for it," Reeves said. "Edgar was close friends with (Colts owner Robert) Irsay. That changed the course of football history."

In one of the most lopsided trades in sports history, the Broncos got Elway, the first overall pick in 1983, from the Colts for the Broncos' No. 1 that year (), a No. 1 in 1984 and quarterback Mark Herrmann — and the Broncos promised to play two exhibitions in Baltimore.

In 10 seasons, Reeves and Elway went to three Super Bowls (in four seasons) together, but they generally were (and a mile high) apart. "My biggest regret is that we didn't win a for Denver," Reeves said. Reeves was fired after the 1992 season. "I wanted to coach in Denver forever," he said. He ultimately would take the to the Super Bowl in the 1998 season — he had life-threatening, quadruple-bypass heart surgery late in the season — to play against ... Elway and the Broncos.

Elway, in 16 seasons, lost three and won two Super Bowls. Reeves, in 23 years as a head coach, lost four. He holds the record of being a player, assistant and head coach in nine Super Bowls.

Reeves and Elway are two strong-willed, stubborn, competitive fellows who, in truth, needed each other.

When Elway was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004, he asked Reeves to be his guest, and praised his coach from the podium. All the hard feelings evaporated into happiness.

Elway and desired that Reeves be inducted into the Broncos' Ring of Fame this year. That will happen Sunday. Dan also belongs alongside Elway in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

I asked Reeves: Is this closure for his 12 years with the Broncos? "This is excitement. This was my first head coaching job, and this is my greatest reward."

Dan, 70, sometimes drives past the field in Georgia he plowed as a boy. Sunday, he deservedly will be back on the football field in Colorado, where he succeeded as a man.

The farm boy became a great coach.

Kickin' it with Kiz: Does NFL need female commissioner to clean up mess?

By Mark Kiszla The Denver Post September 14, 2014

Rice, in a minute. With the enormous image problem facing the NFL, commissioner Roger Goodell's days are numbered. So to take the reigns of the league, I nominate Condoleezza Rice, a woman with strong Colorado ties and one of the most respected members of the George W. Bush administration. She would become the first African-American commissioner in a league dominated by players of African- American heritage; she would pass muster with women's organizations, and, most important, she knows football. The bottom line: If Rice has the skill to successfully serve as secretary of state and national security adviser, she can certainly run the NFL.

Dennis, Grand Junction

Kiz: Ray Rice out. Condoleezza Rice in. That could be a big net gain for NFL integrity. The suggestion makes sense. But dollars are all NFL owners really care about. So, unless Goodell proves damaging to the league's bottom line, I'm afraid what the commish knew about the videotape and when did he know it won't count for much in a game whose owners include of and of Dallas.

Jeers for cheers. I laughed a bit when I read this in your recent column: "The league needs somebody to man up. ... It won't be Goodell, who apparently cares more about protecting league profits than promoting healthy respect for women." Since when has promoting healthy respect for women played any part in NFL thinking? Granted, banishing a player who punches out a smaller, weaker human in an elevator definitely sends a message that should promote healthy respect for women. But why is it, then, that at most NFL games we see a line of barely dressed women jiggling away, leading cheers? I don't see how an activity that is basically nothing more than soft porn promotes a healthy respect for women.

Juliann, tilting against windmills

Kiz: Yes, we love football in 'Murica. But not quite as much as 'Murica loves gambling or sex. So the NFL sells the people what they want. That's the American way. While we here at Kickin' It Headquarters like to think we run the world, don't count on us to eradicate fantasy football or scantily clad cheerleaders before the sun burns out. Knighton in shining armor. And today's parting shot gives Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton credit for tackling a tough issue.

There are nowhere near enough class acts like Knighton in professional sports. He is right on about kicking Ray Rice out of the NFL and had the guts to speak out. That was a great column, Kiz. You always say it the way it is. Don't change.

Denny, Littleton

Klis: Roger Goodell has strong support from the CEO of Broncos

By Mike Klis The Denver Post September 14, 2014

It was difficult to believe. The cute TMZ guy with the long blond hair could get the inside elevator video of the Ray Rice punch but Roger Goodell, the most powerful commissioner in sports, could not?

As it turned out, a law enforcement official said NFL headquarters was delivered video of Rice's sucker punch to his then- fiancée, prompting the league to quickly order an independent investigation.

The office of NFL commissioner is under siege like it's never been since Elmer Layden was forced to resign in 1946. I brought this to the attention of an equally significant NFL office — that of Broncos chief executive officer , who is running the team for owner Pat Bowlen.

"Roger Goodell is a man of integrity who has dedicated his life to the ," said Ellis, who worked with Goodell at NFL headquarters for nine years. "His moral compass is headed in the right direction. He was mentored under two of the greatest commissioners in sports, Pete Rozelle and Paul Tagliabue. As he does with every issue he faces, he'll take the steps to do what's in the best interest of the NFL and the fans."

Of course, Ellis' long association with Goodell makes him biased. As someone considerably more detached, I felt the commissioner was excellent through much of his term that just passed the eight-year mark. He was heavy-handed, maybe even unfairly harsh, in his initial enforcement of the league's player conduct policy.

But at the time, too many NFL players were reckless with their off-field behavior. They needed a cautionary message and once they received it, Goodell became more judicious in his enforcement. Goodell also was masterful while reaching a new owner-favorable collective bargaining agreement without a work stoppage in 2011.

The game is thriving. This is beside the point when it comes to how Goodell botched the Ray Rice domestic violence incident.

"He in his own words sent us a three-page letter outlining his own shortcomings on the domestic violence issue that recently took place," Ellis said. "His words, not mine — 'I didn't get it right.' Then he laid out in 2¼ pages steps that we have to take as clubs and as a league to correct the situation and do better. There's no place for domestic violence in the National Football League, in society or with our team. It can't be tolerated. Roger Goodell knows that and has demonstrated a commitment toward addressing this very serious issue."

Yes, but Goodell only got one chance to get it right the first time. This is where he committed the most egregious error of his commissionership. Everyone was aghast, based on the video taken from outside the elevator bank, that Rice was slapped with only a two-game punishment. Everyone.

Goodell later admitted he was wrong and stiffened the domestic violence penalties. But apologies and corrections always seem more reactionary than sincere.

Then came the law enforcement official who sparked accusations of a coverup. What has struck me is the delight in which an otherwise malevolent mob has taken in attacking Goodell.

"It's difficult to watch the momentum of negativity," Ellis said. "I believe Roger approaches things based on what's right and what's best for everyone involved in the NFL."

Ordering an independent investigation was a correct response, although bringing in owners and II to oversee lead investigator Robert Mueller raises red flags of possible conflicts.

"John Mara and Art Rooney come from a great legacy of families who owned franchises and whose predecessors as principal owners have always put the league first," Ellis said. "I have no question they will do that when it comes to this investigation."

Maybe, but I believe Goodell should recuse himself from the commissioner's office for the good of the league. Otherwise, his authority on all other league matters will carry along the distracting wart that is the Ray Rice case. Let deputy Jeff Pash deal with .

Ellis, not surprisingly, believes Goodell can continue to govern during the ongoing investigation.

"I believe he can because I know him as a person," Ellis said. "It might be my personal bias, but I know who he is and I know what he's all about. And I know his family and I know what he stands for at his core. I think he can conduct himself in his office without conflict or compromise."

Hochman vs. Kiszla: Is the NFL too big to fail?

By Benjamin Hochman and Mark Kiszla The Denver Post September 14, 2014

Kiz: Can a sports league be flagged for unnecessary roughness? For those of you keeping score at home, the NFL got blindsided last week by the disturbing Ray Rice video, serious doubts about the integrity of commissioner Roger Goodell, a felony charge of child abuse against superstar Adrian Peterson and the admission that 6,000 former players are doomed to brain damage. Other than that, it felt good to get back to football. Can Goodell keep his job?

Hooch: It's hard to see Goodell surviving this, but will the NFL? Absolutely. I hate to say it, because I am disgusted by the routine arrests, stupidity and sometimes just evil actions that haunt this sport. And I always say: Imagine the stories we don't hear about. But fans have a weird ability to just shoo negative things to the side and focus on their team. It has happened for generations. There might be more horrendous stories to break in the years to come, but it's not going to affect ratings of the most popular thing in the history of the United States.

Kiz: The NFL predicts its annual revenue could reach $25 billion by 2027. So maybe the league is too big to fail. I doubt any of the scandals currently rocking the league will cause a single fan to stay away from the stadium for the Chiefs-Broncos game. So Goodell's ineptitude alone can't bring down the league. But moms could do it. Moms are more powerful than Goodell. If enough mothers forbid their sons from playing football in the future, the NFL will eventually be viewed as the last refuge for athletes too dumb to make a living playing basketball or, heaven forbid, soccer.

Hooch: Yep, there is an onslaught of information provided to parents about the dangers of football. Yes, you can get a concussion doing anything. But there is so much information these days about football injuries — and scary stories about ex- players — that I bet this next generation of parents pauses before saying Johnny Jr. can be the next Johnny Football (maybe Johnny Futbol ... or in my case, Benny Foosball). Maybe football won't be as popular to play, but I think it'll still be as popular to watch. Even so, goodbye, Goodell.

Kiz: In America, we love vengeance almost as much as football. It's much easier to demand the head of Goodell than enact meaningful reform the NFL needs. Here's what is worrisome: In the long term, playing football is probably significantly more damaging to Broncos Wes Welker than whatever drug he took to get him suspended from the game. We love to watch football. But the evidence suggests it is unwise for any parent to let a child play football.

Hooch: One thing that could have a major impact is if superstars start announcing they won't let their kids play football. Imagine if the Broncos' offense did a public service announcement explaining they'll be the last of the Mannings and Thomases to play football. It would have a startling impact. But even if the Broncos players wanted to do it, I could see the big, bad NFL disallowing the PSA to run, because it would be bad for business.

Rahim Moore's studious approach to playing football began long before he joined Broncos

By Mike Klis The Denver Post September 14, 2014

Rahim Moore can sit and watch film of the ' offense on his iPad, and talk with a reporter to his right, all at the same time. Try chewing on that while walking away. "Sorry, but I've got to multitask," Moore says. "You're cutting into my film time."

This may be difficult to believe, but Moore, a fourth-year NFL safety who made two in the Broncos' season-opening win a week ago, may be just as life- possessed with football as .

Yes, Manning was all but born into the NFL. Moore started running around a football field when he was a 4-year-old water boy for his older brother Shaft's Pop Warner team. The younger brother started putting on his own pads in his South Central Los Angeles Pop Warner League when he was 7.

He didn't just play the game. The hyperactive kid studied it.

"When Rahim was a little boy, 7 or 8 years old, he would sit with his coach and watch film for hours," said Moore's mom, Nowana.

In a hallway at Broncos headquarters, Moore is watching film now.

"You want to see this play right here? This is a play they're good at," he says. " is always making plays. You can never count him out."

Smith, who the Chiefs, is executing one of coach 's patented plays: the misdirection, play-action bootleg pass.

Know what film study does? It helps a safety break a half second quicker on a ball tipped in the air. When the ' Andrew Luck forced a pass to tight end Dwayne Allen down the seam last Sunday, it wasn't the first time Moore saw that play.

When Aqib Talib deflected the ball, Moore caught it just inches off the ground. Later, when a Luck pass clanked high off Coby Fleener's hands as the tight end was running a crossing route, Moore was in position — and had the athletic, change-of- direction quickness to shift from coming up on the tackle to making a lateral dive for the .

"If you're in the right position and you're going hard, then good things happen," said Broncos Jack Del Rio. "That's really what it was. In both cases he was where he was supposed to be. He was breaking the way he was supposed to be breaking and aggressively going after the ball.

Being benched "was like retiring"

On occasion, Moore has looked wistfully at the city he's played for going on four seasons. It's not like Denver is exempt from gang problems, but it's nothing like the dangerous neighborhood surrounding his Dorsey High School.

Moore was never close to joining a gang, but he did have close friends who did.

"If it got to the point where they were going to do something they weren't supposed to do, I was going to the grass," he said.

The gangs were street. Going to the grass was a metaphor for not hanging on the street. Going to the grass meant working out, doing homework, practicing, watching game film.

Going to the grass.

"If I had a choice, I would love for my mom and my dad to both be married and live in Lone Tree, or Highlands Ranch, or live in Cherry Creek," Moore said. "I would love that. But that's not the plan God had for me."

South Central Los Angeles was what Nowana and her three children made of it. A single mother who worked 25 years in the banking business, Nowana would get up at 6 a.m., drop off Rasheed (Shaft), now 31; Rahim, 24; and DuRaisha (NaeNae), 19, who is in her second year at Arizona State; at school and then head to the bank.

"It was tough sometimes," Nowana said. "It was also rewarding. They had birthday parties every year. We did family functions. I loved on them. I took them to school, we went to church, I whipped their butts, I raised them, I loved them. And you do it until they get of age and take the baton and move on to be productive in their own lives."

After Moore led the nation with 10 interceptions as a sophomore at UCLA, he showed up the next year in New York for the 2011 NFL draft believing he would go in the first round. Instead he wasn't selected until the second day, in the second round.

"I was disappointed," he said. "But looking back, I'm happy I went in the second round. I was disappointed because I felt like I did everything I could to be drafted at that level. But who cares? In the NFL, you either make plays or you don't. It doesn't matter what round you are drafted or how much money you're making. Are you're making plays and are you helping your team win?"

He started his first five games as a rookie, but the Broncos' coaching staff determined he wasn't ready and benched him, pretty much for the rest of the season.

"It was like retiring," Moore said. "They took the game away from me. Looking back, it was good for me. I disagreed with it. But at the same time, Coach (John) Fox said it would better me. It did."

It helped to have a sideline view of veterans Brian Dawkins and Champ Bailey. Moore also saw that the NFL game wasn't as difficult as he was making it out to be.

Don't think, just play.

"Lord, let me wake up from this"

He played well in his second season of 2012 until the Flacco Fling in a second-round playoff gamepointed the index finger of blame directly at Moore. The Ravens tied the score in the final seconds of regulation, then won the game in overtime.

Funny thing happened after that Jacoby Jones catch for Baltimore, though. Before the angry mob could gather, Moore disarmed it by standing in front of his locker and taking full responsibility.

"He was so remarkable," Nowana said. "I know he set a tone and an example to many. He said, 'Hey, it's right there in front of everybody.' Why say something different? He said it, he owned up to it. He moved on. Of course he carried it for a while. But once he let it go, it was a brand new day.'"

The next day, Moore headed off to Florida to begin his offseason training. He doesn't smoke, doesn't drink. In 2013, he was playing every snap at free safety for the Broncos when, in a home game against Kansas City — "November 17," Mom said reflexively — Moore's leg was inexplicably going numb.

Fox, who was watching at home as he recuperated from heart surgery, may have been the first to realize something was amiss. "There was a run that broke out to the boundary," Fox said. "And he ran after it, and I mean he had no juice. I was thinking, 'Something's wrong with him.' "

Early the next morning, Moore underwent a life-threatening surgery to correct a circulation condition in his lower left leg called lateral compartment syndrome.

"I don't think I told anybody else this, but when they gave me anesthesia, right before they gave that to me, I said, 'Lord, let me wake up from this,' " Moore said. "Because they told me I could have passed, lost my leg. And as I was fading out, I was blinking, and I thought to myself, I hope this isn't the last time I have eyes open."

He woke up happy to be alive. But eventually came renewed disappointment: His season was finished. No playing in AFC championship victory. No playing in Super Bowl defeat.

The 2014 season opener last Sunday marked the Denver debuts of Talib, DeMarcus Ware, Emmanuel Sanders and T.J. Ward, reaffirmed the greatness of Manning and the unique talent of Julius Thomas.

And two interceptions for Moore in his first game back.

Now it's on to the second game. Moore is in a hallway, watching a safety's view shot of the Chiefs' Alex Smith faking the handoff left, rolling right and hitting a wide-open running back in the flat. Smith must have completed 50 such passes last year.

"He's good. I like him," Moore says. "He's a good quarterback."

Wes Welker out Sunday as NFL council puts halt to new drug policy deal

By Mike Klis The Denver Post September 13, 2014

This is usually a final step, with a review of contract language and exchange of signatures a formality. The union wanted the vote Friday so suspended players such as Welker, Orlando Scandrick, Rashad Jones and Dion Jordan could be activated by the 2 p.m. roster deadline Saturday.

But as the conservative suits in the business world often say: A contract negotiation is never done until its done.

The league's management council quickly put out word the union was trying to ramrod the deal through before all the points of contention had been resolved. Players wonder if they were double-crossed by the league.

One source said there was enough competitive advantage complaints from ownership that the league pushed the matter back to early next week. Both sides put out statements:

The league's statement Friday night: "We have not yet reached an agreement with the union on revisions to our drug programs. There continues to be significant unresolved issues."

To which the union replied Saturday morning: "The Board of Player Representatives gave the NFLPA authority to complete new drug policies with the League consistent with detailed term sheets the players reviewed. We hope to have final agreements, including effective date for players with adjusted discipline, very soon."

What a mess.

Meanwhile, Welker is caught in the middle with no game to play Sunday. Welker was slapped with a four-game suspension Sept. 2 after the league found he had violated its performance-enhancement policy by testing positive for an amphetamine in the offseason.

Revisions to the new policy, though, would place Welker under the league's substance-abuse jurisdiction, which places first-time offenders on probation, and does not consider suspensions until second infractions. The hope now is for the revised drug policy to be finalized Monday so that Welker and other involved players can play in Week 3. The Broncos play at Seattle next Sunday.

Broncos Q&A: Résumé says no longer "a nobody"

By Troy E. Renck The Denver Post September 14, 2014

Marvin Austin experienced a dizzying spiral. Entering his senior season at North Carolina, he was one of 's top defensive tackles. Before he could get drafted, he absorbed the first of two punches to his career, adversity that led him to the Broncos. North Carolina dismissed Austin because of his dealings with an agent.

"Overnight, I was a nobody," Austin said.

His résumé remained impressive enough for the to select him in the second round of the 2011 NFL draft. But a bad back prevented him from rebounding as he bounced from the to the Dallas Cowboys before landing in Denver in May.

"I played hurt for two years. That's why I never played well as a Giant. I was trash. I couldn't run," said the 6-foot-2, 312-pound lineman. "If I showed you the film, you'd say, 'Get the heck out of here. That's not you.' "

Q: When did you believe that your back would be OK again?

A: After my surgery last November. I was able to move around. The doctor said he wasn't sure how I was able to play before (the operation). I had a microdiscectomy (to repair a disc issue). I wasn't sure if I would be football healthy until a couple of days before my workout here. In the workout in Denver, I was tired as (heck). I had been running 110s. But the altitude was a whole other monster.

Q: How did playing in pain affect your well-being?

A: It is tough not to do things well that used to come naturally. You might be a golfer or play guitar. And let's say you've always been good at it, and everyone knows it. Then all of sudden you aren't good anymore. Mentally, that took me to a place I never want to go to again. But it made me strong as (heck). There's nothing you can throw at me that I won't be able to handle.

Q: Was there a low point? Did you wonder about being good enough to play in the NFL? A: It was definitely a humbling experience. I had good people in my corner. One of my closest homeboys, one day we were doing drills, and I was with the Giants. I was losing get-off (the ball) drills in practice. I was like, "The other guy right now, he's just playing better than me." My homeboy looked at me and said, "Come on, bro, that's not you." He had been around me; he knows I am a confident dude. I just didn't have it. I couldn't run and stop, sniff out the screen. I am running, falling, feet missing the ground. It was a lot. It prepared me, and I work so much harder now.

Q: How has your experience in Denver compared with other stops?

A: Just the way they take care of players. They put their ego and everything else to the side and make sure that the players have everything they need. Some organizations aren't that way. Here, they are that way from the first guy on the roster to the last guy. Some places I have been, you can't even get a (team) T-shirt if you aren't a starter. You get one set, and that's it. When you feel good, when you look good, you play good. They make sure we have what we need.

Q: I notice your orange cleats. You have an affinity for shoes?

A: I have 200 to 300 pairs. My favorite? Probably have to say my Raging Bulls, Jordan 5s. They are retros. The most I spent was probably $3,000 on a pair of Louis Vuittons. Hopefully, I don't do that ever again. But I can't promise. I love shoes.

Q: This defensive line doesn't lack personalities. How does that translate to the field?

A: Everybody has fun. We talk a lot. There's respect. You know how that guy next to you works; you know that he's not going to say any B.S. We are competing, and it's a performance-based business. But you are only as good as the guy beside you. You have to be honest with each other and the coaches, because that's the only way you can prosper.

Q: What is your favorite football memory?

A: Winning the (Washington, D.C., Interscholastic Athletic Association) title game with Ballou over Dunbar. Dunbar hadn't been beaten in years. I am kind of known for that. I balled out. I was playing guard and defensive tackle. I really had a better game on offense. I was greasy at guard.

Marvin Austin file

--Was nation's top-ranked high school defensive tackle after leading Ballou (Washington D.C.) to a title over Dunbar in 2006. --Chose North Carolina after considering Southern California and Tennessee.

--Started 25 games in college, posting 106 tackles. Was dismissed before senior season because of contact with an agent.

--Drafted by the Giants with the 52nd pick in 2011. Tore left pectoral muscle in exhibition game and sat out the season.

--Appeared in 11 NFL games in three years, undermined by a bad back. Hasn't played full season since college.

--Signed by the Broncos on May 5, and finally healthy, easily made the team in camp.

--Favorite nickname: Big Homie, coined by his college teammates.

The best prank Peyton Manning pulled on Eric Decker

By Nicki Jhabvala The Denver Post September 13, 2014

Eric Decker spent four seasons in Denver after the Broncos drafted him in the third round of the 2010 draft, and he son earned the starting job at wide receiver and became one of the most popular wideouts in the league. He compiled 222 receptions for 3,070 yards and 33 during his time in the Mile High City, while averaging 86 catches and 12 touchdowns in his last two seasons, when Peyton Manning was his quarterback.

This past summer, he signed a five-year deal with the Jets, who ranked 31st in passing offense and 30th in total receiving yards in 2013, and whose quarterback is the young and inconsistent Geno Smith.

Decker recently spoke to New York Post columnist Steve Serby about his time in Denver, the transition from a working with a future Hall-of-Fame quarterback to one who’s still learning the ropes, his wife’s swag (Serby’s description, not mine), and even a prank by Manning that Decker will never forget. Here’s a snippet:

Q: How good of a practical joker is Peyton? A: Very good.

Q: What’s the best one you’ve seen him pull off? A: The best personal one I’ve seen him pull off was on me in Duke. We went out there just for a workout for a weekend, and at the end of the workout, we all went out to dinner. It was Eli and the Giants, us from the Broncos, the coaching staff from Duke. We’re having a good time, all of a sudden these letters are handed out, and assume they’re “Thanks for coming, it was a pleasure having you on campus,” whatever. And it was an invoice of getting your laundry done, getting picked up from the airports, the coaching fees that they charged to you. On everyone else’s bill it said, “Decker’s getting pranked, play along.” And on mine it was like $3,500. I still have it. It was my wife’s birthday that week and I was gonna take her to Napa. First year with Peyton, I figured I needed to kinda do what he asked. Once I saw that bill, I was like, “You gotta be kidding me,” and he played it for a good five minutes, and they finally told me it was a joke. And at that time — I still am — pretty frugal, so I was like, “Ohh, you gotta be kidding,” like I wouldn’t even ask the coach to help coach me if it was gonna be this much.” Q: How would you describe Peyton? A: He’s The General, that’s kinda I think the nickname he gets, but he really is the general as far as once you walk into the building, everything that he does, everything that we do, is for a reason, it has a purpose behind it. I’ve never seen a guy that’s do focused for such a long period of time — this is a game that you can get mentally fatigued, you can get physically fatigued, it gets hard at times. The little things every single day, he’s on you about it, he’s on himself about it. It’s impressive. What he remembers, too — you can talk about a play from 1998, and he’ll tell you what exactly happened. It’s amazing.

Q: People always talk about going from Peyton Manning to a second-year Jets quarterback Geno Smith. A: People are gonna say that because Peyton Manning right now … is gonna go down as one of the best quarterbacks to play this game, you know? You can’t really compare one to the other. Geno has an incredible skill set. He’s young, he’s learning, but being around him for these five, six months, I’ve been so impressed with the way he carries himself as well as the knowledge of the system, of how he throws the football, and the decision-making that he does make. It really is impressive for a guy his age. And I think if he progressing like he is, if he keeps working hard at it, I really do think he’s gonna have a great career as well.

Broncos game plan against the Kansas City Chiefs

Denver Post September 14, 2014

When the Broncos run

They must show resolve. The Broncos aren't going to improve their ground attack by throwing more. They will need to run during November's road gantlet. The Broncos are looking to improve on first down, and tailback Ronnie Hillman could be in play this week as a change-of-pace option. The Chiefs are compromised without linebacker Derrick Johnson, who suffered a potential career-ending Achilles tendon injury last week. Edge: Broncos

When the Chiefs run

Kansas City has a good running back? Who knew? Fantasy-team owners recoiled in horror last week as coach Andy Reid ran Jamaal Charles only seven times. That would be the equivalent of Peyton Manning finishing with 10 pass attempts. Reid blamed himself for misguided play-calling. The Broncos are expecting a heavy dose of Charles. Edge: Chiefs

When the Broncos pass

Manning's ability to spread the ball around can't be overstated. The Chiefs are weak at linebacker, which could create openings for dump passes to the running backs or slants to tight end Julius Thomas. Since joining the Broncos, Manning has averaged 329 yards and three touchdowns passing per game against the Chiefs. Sounds about right. Edge: Broncos

When the Chiefs pass

Veteran QB Alex Smith has shed his "game manager" reputation. But he ran into trouble last week as he tried to throw downfield more. He is skilled at checkdowns and can run when necessary. Having receiver Dwayne Bowe back from a suspension helps. But Smith might have to make plays with his legs to create space for his other targets. Escaping won't be easy. He's poised to have a breakout game. Edge: Broncos

Special teams

Neither club draped itself in glory last week. The Broncos fumbled an onside kick, leading to anxious fourth-quarter moments vs. the Colts. The Chiefs are wondering if they acted too hastily in cutting veteran kicker Ryan Succop in favor of rookie Cairo Santos, who clanged in a chip-shot and hit the crossbar on another attempt. Denver could be without David Bruton, its best tackling and blocking weapon on special teams. He suffered a dislocated shoulder in the opener. It popped back into place, leading him to believe he will be available. Edge: Broncos

Welker, Scandrick remain on suspended list

By Arnie Stapleton Associated Press September 13, 2014

Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker won't be suiting up on Sunday.

Neither will Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick.

Despite the union's approval, the NFL didn't sign off on a new drug policy before Saturday's roster deadline, meaning players potentially eligible for reinstatement remained on the reserve/suspended list.

That includes Welker and Scandrick, who are both serving four-game punishments.

The NFL Players Association approved a new policy Friday that would introduce HGH testing and significantly increase the threshold for positive marijuana tests. Other changes could result in suspended players seeing their punishments reduced or rescinded.

Despite the union's OK, the NFL didn't approve the new policy by the 4 p.m. ET deadline for the 53-man rosters to be set for Sunday's games.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello told The Associated Press on Friday night that significant issues remained unresolved.

On Saturday morning, the NFLPA issued a statement saying, "We hope to have final agreements, including effective date for players with adjusted discipline, very soon."

Welker was suspended for amphetamine use in the offseason, but punishment for that is being switched from the performance enhancers policy to the substance abuse program — except for in-season violations.

Quarterback Peyton Manning expressed a desire to have Welker back in action by this weekend. But the Broncos slot receiver likely would have been inactive against Kansas City even if he'd been reinstated.

Although he has cleared concussion protocol, he's practiced just once since Aug. 23, when he sustained his third head injury in a 10-month span.

If the NFL agrees to the new drug policy soon, Welker could be eligible to play against Seattle next week. Before beginning his suspension, Welker, a widely respected 11-year NFL veteran, vehemently disagreed with his punishment and said he'd fight to fix the league's drug policy.

"I don't have an explanation of exactly what happened," teammate Jacob Tamme said Friday. "All I know is he's one of the best teammates and guys in this locker room, one of the best guys I've ever played with. My understanding is if this policy gets passed, it will benefit guys like him. So, obviously, there was something wrong with the system."

Scandrick, whose Cowboys play Tennessee on Sunday, blamed his positive drug test on a recreational drug he took in Mexico that he didn't know contained an amphetamine.

Other suspended players could have their bans lifted if the NFL signs off on the drug policy.

Miami Dolphins defenders Reshad Jones and Dion Jordan are serving four-game bans for violating the league's policy on performance enhancers. Jordan tested positive for a stimulant and Jones said he took a supplement that caused the violation.

If the substances for which they tested positive are remanded into the substance abuse program, they, too, could be eligible to return before serving their full four- game suspensions.

Players' union reps approve HGH testing for '14

By Barry Wilner Associated Press September 13, 2014

NEW YORK (AP) — Hours after the players' union voted Friday to accept an NFL proposal on drug policy changes that included HGH testing, the league says it is not a done deal.

Player representatives to the union also voted for changes to marijuana testing, classification for amphetamines, punishment for driving under the influence, and neutral arbitration on appeals.

But NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Friday in an email to The Associated Press: "There are unresolved issues. More negotiation ahead."

Aiello did not specify which issues are not resolved, but called them "significant."

Testing for human growth hormone was originally agreed upon in 2011, but the players have balked at the science in the testing and the appeals process for positive tests. If the proposal they voted on Friday is put into action, testing would begin for this season.

The player reps also approved an increase for the threshold for positive marijuana tests. Some players have complained that the NFL threshold of 15 nanograms per milliliter is so low that anyone within the vicinity of people smoking marijuana could test positive. The threshold was increased to 35 ng/ml in the league's proposal.

On Saturday, the NFL Players Association issued a statement: "We hope to have final agreements, including effective date for players with adjusted discipline, very soon."

Overall changes are retroactive for players suspended under previous policies, as well as for those in the appeal process. Those players, including Browns receiver Josh Gordon (suspended for the season) and Broncos receiver Wes Welker (four games), are subject to standards of the new policies. Their suspensions could be reduced. However, no immediate announcements were made regarding those suspensions, probably because the NFL doesn't consider anything official yet.

Welker was suspended for amphetamine use in the offseason, but punishment for that is being switched from the performance enhancers policy to the substance abuse program — except for in-season violations. A two-game suspension would be issued for a player convicted of driving under the influence. But an NFL proposal to immediately suspend a player, owner, coach, team executive or league employee for a DUI arrest was rejected by the union.

The players approved arbitration for appeals under the substance abuse and the PED policies. The NFL and NFL Players Association would hire between three and five arbitrators.

The league and the union also would retain independent investigators to review cases in which player confidentiality under the drug policy had been breached. Punishment for leaks could range up to $500,000 and/or termination of a job.

"This is an historic moment for our players and our league," NFLPA President Eric Winston said before the NFL basically put matters on hold. "We have collectively bargained drug policies that will keep the game clean and safe, but also provide our players with an unprecedented level of fairness and transparency."

Peterson case creates new crisis for NFL

By Dave Campbell and Jon Krawsynski Associated Press September 13, 2014

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- star running back Adrian Peterson's booking on a child abuse charge Saturday has created another crisis for the embattled NFL, already derided for not responding strongly enough to acts of domestic violence by its players.

It also has touched off a national debate about the role of corporal punishment in parenting.

In the eyes of a Texas grand jury, Peterson crossed the line when he repeatedly struck his son with a tree branch, or switch, in May. Peterson's attorney has said he has never run from what happened - and that Peterson was inflicting the same discipline he endured as a child.

''Obviously, parents are entitled to discipline their children as they see fit, except when that discipline exceeds what the community would say is reasonable,'' Montgomery County Prosecutor Phil Grant said about 12 hours after Peterson was booked and released from jail on $15,000 bond. He is charged with causing injury to a child age 14 or younger.

Peterson, one of the NFL's most popular players and widely considered one of the best running backs to ever play, flew from Minnesota to Houston in the early morning hours after authorities indicted him on Friday evening. He has a home in both locations.

The Vikings almost immediately decided to deactivate him for Sunday's game against theNew England Patriots, and NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said on Saturday that Peterson's case ''will be reviewed under the NFL's personal conduct policy.''

The situation comes as the NFL proceeds with a self-commissioned investigation by a former FBI director into how it handled the case ofRay Rice, who knocked his then-fiancee unconscious in an Atlantic City elevator. Rice was released Monday from the after a video surfaced that showed the violence. The NFL said it hadn't seen the video before then, but a law enforcement source told the AP it was sent to a league executive's office in April and provided a voice mail confirming it was received. Unlike Rice's situation, Peterson's case is complicated by his stance that he meant his son no harm but rather was applying the same discipline he experienced growing up.

''Adrian is a loving father who used his judgment as a parent to discipline his son. He used the same kind of discipline with his child that he experienced as a child growing up in East Texas,'' Peterson's attorney, Rusty Hardin, said.

Steve Eudey, who coached Peterson as a young boy in Palestine, Texas, and has remained a family friend, said he has heard stories from Peterson about his father Nelson ''being a firm disciplinarian.''

''Some of the things his dad did to him was to make him tough,'' Eudey told The Associated Press.

Eudey said he had yet to speak to Peterson since his arrest, but said his actions were consistent with the type of upbringing he had.

''I will go to my grave defending Adrian, but at the same time you can't harm a child, either,'' Eudey said. ''I know that was never his intent.''

Grant, the Texas prosecutor, said the grand jury felt the charge was warranted after spending several weeks reviewing ''lots of evidence.''

It's not unusual for people subjected to physical discipline as children to use corporal punishment against their own children, experts say, and courts will sometimes consider that as a mitigating factor when sentencing an abuser. Peterson faces up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine if found guilty.

News of Peterson's charges led several prominent athletes to tweet about their experiences with corporal punishment when they were children.

''Am I the only one that got hit with a switch? I had to go outside and pick my own switch. It taught values, respect (and) accountability,'' former NBA star Tracy McGrady said. But he later qualified those remarks, tweeting, ''Disciplining a child is vital. Of course any early physical punishment should be within reason, not overboard, and inside certain boundaries.''

While the legal process plays out, the NFL is facing a potential test case for the tougher penalties it declared last month for players involved with domestic violence.

Commissioner Roger Goodell announced an initial offense will draw a six-week suspension without pay, though ''more severe discipline will be imposed if there are aggravating circumstances such as the presence or use of a weapon, choking, repeated striking, or when the act is committed against a pregnant woman or in the presence of a child.'' It is not clear if Peterson's case will invoke those penalties.

Corporal punishment is legal in Texas, and the law spells out that non-deadly force against a child by a parent or guardian is permissible.

But the punishment is abusive if it causes injury. While a blow that causes a red mark that fades in an hour is not likely to be judged abusive, a blow that leaves a bruise, welt, or swelling, or requires medical attention, could be judged abusive. The child's injuries will likely be under scrutiny as the case proceeds.

The guidelines also say while spanking with the bare, open hand is least likely to be abusive, use of an instrument ''is cause for concern.''

The Vikings jumped ahead of the NFL and the legal system by shelving Peterson for the game Sunday. Two other teams - Carolina and San Francisco - have taken heat for allowing players involved in alleged recent domestic violence incidents to continue to play.

The team - and the league - will likely face scrutiny as they decide whether Peterson returns to the field as the legal process plays out. As of Saturday, no decision had been made about his outlook this season, and no court date had been set in Texas.

Wes Welker won't play vs. Chiefs

ESPN.com September 13, 2014

The NFL and the players' union did not reach a final agreement on proposed changes to the league's drug policy by Saturday afternoon, meaning suspended players potentially eligible for reinstatement -- like Denver Broncos receiver Wes Welker -- will not play Sunday.

The NFLPA voted Friday to accept a new policy that would implement testing for human growth hormone and significantly increase the threshold for positive marijuana tests.

But despite the union's approval, the deal still had not been finalized due to "significant unresolved issues," according to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello.

"We have not yet reached an agreement with the union," Aiello said Friday. "There continue to be significant unresolved issues."

An agreement needed to be in place by Saturday's 4 p.m. ET roster deadline in order for Welker and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick, who both received four-game suspensions, to play in Week 2.

"We hope to have final agreements, including effective date for players with adjusted discipline, very soon," the NFLPA said in a statement released earlier Saturday.

Coach John Fox and quarterback Peyton Manning were among the many members of the Broncos who had hoped Welker would play in Sunday's showdown against the AFC West rival Kansas City Chiefs. Denver even left an opening on its 53-man roster for Welker, who also had been attempting to return from a concussion suffered in the preseason.

Testing for HGH was originally agreed upon in 2011, but the players have balked at the science in the testing and the appeals process for positive tests. If the proposal they voted on Friday is put into action, testing would begin for this season.

The player reps also approved an increase for the threshold for positive marijuana tests from 15 nanograms per milliliter to 35 ng/ml.

Overall changes are retroactive for players suspended under previous policies, as well as for those in the appeal process. Those players, including Welker, Scandrick and Cleveland Brownsreceiver Josh Gordon (suspended for the season) are subject to standards of the new policies. Welker and Scandrick both were suspended for amphetamine use in the offseason, but punishment for that is being switched from the performance enhancers policy to the substance abuse program -- except for in-season violations. A two-game suspension would be issued for a player convicted of driving under the influence. But an NFL proposal to immediately suspend a player, owner, coach, team executive or league employee for a DUI arrest was rejected by the union.

NFL-NFLPA 'still working' on drug policy; no suspensions lifted yet

By Lindsay H. Jones USAToday.com September 13, 2014

The NFL Players Association had hoped the league's revised drug policy would be finalized on Saturday in time for a handful of suspended players to be rejoin their team's active rosters.

It didn't happen.

Despite a unanimous vote from 32 NFL player representatives Friday evening on a term sheet of the comprehensive new drug policy, the process stalled when the policy was returned to the NFL and union's lawyers.

"We're still working on it," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello told USA TODAY Sports in an email Saturday afternoon.

That leaves players like Denver Broncos receiver Wes Welker, Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick and Miami Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan still on their teams' suspended lists. Players must be on an active roster by 4 p.m. Saturday to be eligible to play.

Whenever the new policy, which will include HGH testing, higher marijuana thresholds, increased penalties for drunk driving and neutral arbitration for appeals, is finalized, the NFLPA will have a full list of players who will receive "adjusted discipline," the union said in statement on Saturday.

The new policy will be retroactive to March 11, 2014, the first day of the NFL year.

Bell Tolls: Vikings' statement with Peterson should be new NFL standard

By Jarrett Bell USAToday.com September 14, 2014

A perfect formula was brewing for an upset.

Minnesota could feed the football to Adrian Peterson – on sweeps, counters, tosses, whatever – and allow the NFL's best running back to wear down a beleaguered run defense.

That plan sure worked for Knowshon Moreno and the Miami Dolphins a week ago.

Moreno enters Week 2 as the NFL's rushing leader after he gashed the Patriots defense for 134 yards as it wilted in the Miami heat.

If Moreno could do that behind five new offensive linemen, imagine what "All Day" might do against a 29th-ranked run defense that was even worse against its base 3-4 scheme and nickel sub packages at Miami.

Instead, the Vikings will undoubtedly tinker their gameplan Sunday for New England after Peterson was indicted Thursday on a charge of injury of a child in Montgomery County, Texas.

After chilling details began to emerge of the case where Peterson whipped his 4- year-old son with a branch from a tree, the Vikings swiftly deactivated him.

It's worth noting the move didn't come from NFL headquarters at 345 Park Avenue. It came from the Vikings -- undoubtedly mindful of the backlash surrounding the Ray Rice domestic violence case.

The Vikings demonstrated a moral compass clearly lacking with other teams – most recently the and – managing their own forms of crisis.

The Panthers and 49ers should have taken a similar wait-and-see approach with Greg Hardy and Ray McDonald, respectively.

Instead, as Hardy appeals his convicted by a judge in July on two counts of domestic assault he was set to play the Panthers' home opener on Sunday against the . McDonald was arrested on Aug. 31 on suspicion of felony domestic violence and is set to start for the Niners against the Bears in the first regular season game at Levi's Stadium. His court date has been postponed.

The Vikings need Peterson at least as much as those teams need those players, and I'd think even more.

Minnesota's top brass – owner , GM and coach Mike Zimmer – are doing the right thing sitting Peterson. That statement the Vikings made should become the NFL standard.

This is the same organization that suspended special teams coach for the first three games this season for making homophobic remarks in a meeting, rather than relying on the NFL to discipline the assistant coach.

How could the Vikings like the NFL -- at large an entity built with public trust -- hit the field at TCF Bank Stadium on Sunday with a man alleged to have abused a child?

Peterson deserves his day in court. That's the American way.

McDonald deserves the due process of the legal system, too. So does Hardy.

But due process should not be confused with the right to play.

High school kids get benched for poor grades, yet a pass-rusher appealing a felony conviction can keep on playing?

It does not make sense.

Other items of note for Week 2

Key matchup: vs. Richard Sherman. The Seahawks' all-pro cornerback lamented the fact that Packers quarterback didn't throw a single pass in his direction during Seattle's season-opening rout. So Sherman effectively took half the field away from Green Bay, ala in his heyday. Rivers, though, is a confident gunslinger in his own right who maintains he won't be afraid to throw at Sherman when the Seahawks visit Qualcomm Stadium. Of course, that's easier said than done. If the Chargers quarterback is reading progressions, his actions should be dictated by whether there's an open receiver against Sherman. Either way, conditions are ripe for some trash-talking, with Rivers as prone for that as any quarterback in the league and with Sherman being Sherman.

Next man up: Gabe Carimi. The Falcons are already down to their third left tackle to protect Matt Ryan's blindside, with the journeyman vet set to replace rookie Jake Matthews for Sunday's game at Cincinnati. Matthews, out for an undetermined length of time with an ankle injury, flipped from the right side after Sam Baker suffered a torn patella tendon during the preseason. Ryan passed for a franchise- record 448 yards with 3 TDs in the opener against New Orleans, but Carimi provided reason for concern after replacing an injured Matthews. He was flagged for three penalties and allowed four quarterback pressures. The Falcons clearly hope that a week of first-team practice reps at left tackle will make a difference.

Rookie watch: Derek Carr. Raiders coach Dennis Allen provided a twist to the oft- repeated axiom that a player shows his biggest improvement from his first and second seasons in the NFL. Allen declared that a rookie makes his biggest jump from his first game to his second game. Maybe that's the perspective to expect from a coach on the hot seat. In any event, that's a mouthful as it applies to his impressive young quarterback. Carr had an encouraging debut at the Jets (94.7 passer rating, 2 TDs, 0 INTs). Now, for the home opener, comes the Texans, led by the NFL's best defensive lineman in J.J. Watt and whatever confusion D-coordinator will throw at Carr. With the way Watt can blow up a gameplan, Carr will need to make a big leap.

Klee: Broncos Country should crack a cold one for Chiefs fans

By Paul Klee Colorado Springs Gazette September 13, 2014

DENVER — There was a time, not that long ago, when Chiefs Kingdom had this argument over the quarterback situation in Kansas City:

Damon Huard or ?

Three things to watch in Broncos-Chiefs game

There was a time, too, when blowing a 28-point lead in a playoff game was something the Raiders would do, or missing three field goals in a playoff game was something no one could do, or 's retirement meant not having to deal with a Hall of Fame quarterback in Denver for at least a few decades.

Then Peyton Manning happened, because the Chiefs.

This is the time, on the Sunday of another Broncos-Chiefs game, to underscore what too often gets lost in these hills: Broncos Country is spoiled. You got it good, folks.

Think losing in another Super Bowl is rough? Try not winning a playoff game since O.J. Simpson drove a white Bronco.

The Chiefs last won a playoff game in 1994. Yes, Jan. 16, 1994. I counted, and that stretch includes 220 NFL playoff games, none of which were celebrated in KC, unless it was a Broncos loss. Since that time when the Chiefs won a playoff game, the rest of the AFC West has won 21 playoff games. The Broncos have won two Super Bowls and played in a third, the Chargers and Raiders both played in Super Bowls.

It's been so long, the Seahawks left the AFC West and won a Super Bowl. It's been so long, Seahawks fans had to time to remember there's a football team in Seattle.

It's been so long, Kansas City's first-place Royals are on track to win a playoff game before the Chiefs.

"When it comes to the playoffs with the Chiefs, something's not right," said Joel Thorman, who manages the excellent Chiefs-centric website, ArrowheadPride.com. At Arrowhead Stadium, the dour is thicker than the barbecue sauce. Just last year the Chiefs followed their second-best start (8-0) with their worst ending (blowing that 28-point lead in a perfectly Chiefs playoff loss at Indianapolis). Just the other day Thorman polled his readers with the question, Are the Chiefs done?

Seventy-percent said yes, the Chiefs are done. It was after Week 1.

"To me, I'm treating (Sunday's game) like a championship game," Broncos defensive back Chris Harris said. "Nobody wants to start 0-2 (and KC is 0-1)."

I don't pretend to know a lot about Chiefs history. But I do appreciate sports fans who root, root, root for the home team, regardless. Chiefs Kingdom does.

So, from a reasonable proximity over the past couple of decades, this is what Chiefs history feels like: The Broncos are the James Bond series. They rotate the lead actor, Elway to Manning, and, in the end, usually trump the bad guy.

The Chiefs are Final Destination. You know it won't end well. The only question is how badly it will hurt.

This year the Chiefs bought a quarterback for $45 million in guaranteed money. In his next game, Alex Smith gave them three interceptions and 10 points in a home loss.

Manning is 11-1 against the Chiefs, and he's not even the most hated Bronco.

"Yeah, but Elway beat us AND he's pure evil," Chiefs fan @CrossisBoss tweeted.

Last season was so Chiefs. The 9-2 Chiefs hosted the 9-2 Broncos at Arrowhead. My new friends in parking lot C had prayed for cold and snow, since everybody knows Manning stinks in crummy weather.

Alas, it was 60 and sunny, in December, because the Chiefs. The Broncos won, 35- 28.

Sunday is time for goodwill. Whether on the edge of a tailgate in a Mile High parking lot, or a sofa in front of the flat-screen TV, do the right thing.

Pour one out for the Chiefs. Their fans deserve better. At the least, Broncos Country and Chiefs Kingdom can agree on one thing.

Raiders stink.

Report: Women's rights group will fly 'Goodell Must Go' banners Sunday

By Will Brinson CBSSports.com September 13, 2014

Per Bloomberg, the women's rights group will fly banners saying "@Ultraviolet: #GoodellMustGo."

Those banners will fly over MetLife Stadium in New Jersey before the Giants and Cardinalsplay, as well as above the Saints-Browns game in Cleveland and the 49ers-Bears game on Sunday night in San Francisco.

Bloomberg also reports the group plans to fly one above the Colts-Eagles game on Monday night.

The planes are set to fly for two hours ahead of the security restrictions (one hour before kickoff) are imposed on aircraft over NFL stadiums.

Ultraviolet, along with the National Organization of Women, called for Roger Goodell to resign in the wake of the Ray Rice scandal that erupted following the release of graphic video on Monday and the NFL's decision to suspend Rice indefinitely.

NFL 'will review' Adrian Peterson case under personal conduct policy

By Will Brinson CBSSports.com September 13, 2014

The indictment of Adrian Peterson -- and subsequent arrest when he turned himself in early Saturday -- is drawing plenty of attention around the NFL.

This includes the league office, with the NFL saying it "will review" Peterson's case under the personal conduct policy.

"This will be reviewed under the NFL's personal conduct policy," an NFL spokesman said Saturday.

The NFL's personal conduct policy and potential discipline are in the news these days, too: Ray Rice's initial suspension of two games was eventually changed to an indefinite suspension, leaving plenty of people skeptical about the process for the league meting out punishment.

It stands to reason the Vikings running back won't face any potential discipline from the league until after his case is sorted out in the legal system.

The league is waiting on the courts in both the Greg Hardy and Ray McDonald cases, and they'll almost certainly do the same thing with Peterson.

Broncos' D prepping for heavy dose of Jamaal Charles

By Kevin Patra NFL.com September 13, 2014

Jamaal Charles had just 11 touches in the Kansas City Chiefs' demoralizing loss to the in the season opener.

Over the previous two regular seasons, Charles has averaged a shade under 21 touches per game. Given the disparity from Week 1, the Denver Broncos' defense is bracing for a heavy dose of Charleson Sunday.

"We definitely know they're going to have a heavy game plan for Jamaal," said Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib,per the Broncos' official team website.

Defensive tackle Terrance Knightonadded that when one of the best runners in the NFL gets only seven carries one week it "puts up red flags" for the next opponent.

"...when you've got a top-tier guy getting seven (carries), something's not right," added Knighton. "So he'll definitely get a lot of touches this week."

The weak, shredded Chiefs' offensive line is one large impediment to Charles production this season. Even with the return of Dwayne Bowe, Andy Reid knows Charles is his best offensive player. Despite a depleted line, the Chiefs should force- feed the back the ball Sunday -- it's their best and only chance of upsetting Peyton Manning and the Broncos.

Broncos Healthy, Chiefs Hurting Heading Into Sunday

By Rich Kurtzman Denver.cbslocal.com September 13, 2014

When the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs get together, it’s usually a physical football game.

And before they even get together to play one another this weekend, each team has gone through some major injuries.

For the Broncos, they’ll certainly be without Danny Trevathan again, who broke a bone in his lower left leg during training camp . Trevathan led the team in tackles in 2013, and Brandon Marshall filled in nicely for him in the team’s Week 1 win. Marshall led the team with nine total tackles, including some huge hits.

Also held out in Week 1 and for this Week 2 contest is backup offensive lineman Ben Garland. He’s been battling a sore ankle so bad he wasn’t able to practice this week until being limited on Friday.

Injured in the win over the Colts was safety and special teams captain David Bruton Jr. who was seen rolling around on the ground with his arm limp after one return. He didn’t practice Wednesday but was on the field in limited fashion Thursday and Friday, and is questionable to play Sunday.

For the Chiefs, Week 1 was devastating. They lost starters in defensive lineman Mike DeVito and linebacker Derrick Johnson, each to Achilles injuries, for the season. Johnson’s been quite important for the Chiefs as of late, racking up 100- plus total tackles in each of the previous four seasons, along with four interceptions, eight forced and a touchdown during that span. DeVito started 13-14 games in 2013 and will be missed as well. He’s been replaced by former Broncos defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson, who was among one of the final cuts by Denver at the end of training camp.

Other injuries sustained were to starting offensive lineman Jeff Allen (elbow) and running back/special teamer De’Anthony Thomas (hamstring). Neither practiced on Wednesday or Thursday and both are out this week. Also, another important linebacker – Tamba Hali – was limited in practice all week but is probable to play.

Here’s look at each team’s total injury listings:

Denver Broncos Probable:

Tackle Ryan Clady (foot)

Cornerback Chris Harris Jr. (knee)

Linebacker Nate Irving (knee)

Center Manny Ramirez (back)

Defensive end DeMarcus Ware (thigh)

Cornerback Kayvon Webster (ankle)

Questionable:

Safety David Bruton Jr. (shoulder)

Doubtful:

Guard Ben Garland (ankle)

Out:

Linebacker Danny Trevathan (lower leg)

Kansas City Chiefs:

Probable:

Defensive back Husain Abdullah (quad)

Safety Eric Berry (heel/quad)

Cornerback Marcus Cooper (ankle)

Wide receiver Frankie Hammond (shoulder)

Wide receiver Junior Hemingway (hip)

Offensive lineman Eric Kush (shoulder)

Linebacker Josh Martin (quad)

Wide receiver Albert Wilson (ankle)

Linebacker Tamba Hali (ankle/knee)

Out:

Running back De’Anthony Thomas (hamstring) Offensive lineman Jeff Allen (elbow)

Defensive tackle Mike DeVito (Achilles)

Linebacker Derrick Johnson (Achilles)

Broncos-Chiefs: Three Keys for Week 2

By Andrew Mason denverbroncos.com September 14, 2014

DENVER -- It's never too early in a season to have a massive opportunity.

For the Broncos, they don't get much better than the chance to take a two-game lead on the team that finished in second place last year. But the Kansas City Chiefs are a team that came within an end-zone deflection of a tie game inside the last two minutes of their Week 13 game last season. Although they have lost seven of their last nine games -- including the playoffs -- that postseason defeat saw them roar to a 38-10 lead before fading, showing Kansas City's ceiling if things go well.

The Chiefs are without two defensive starters in Mike DeVito and linebacker Derrick Johnson, but they have Justin Houston back; he did not play in that tight game last December, but has averaged a sack a game dating back to the end of the 2012 season.

Houston's pass-rush abilities are at the center of one of the three keys to Sunday's game:

1. KEEP JAMAAL CHARLES CORRALLED.

This month provides a rigorous set of challenges for the Broncos' remodeled defense: the dual quarterbacking threats of Andrew Luck, Alex Smith and, next week, Russell Wilson, and Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles, who touched the ball 11 times last week but should be much more involved Sunday.

Charles can control the tempo of the game with short bursts, but he wins it with explosive plays. His body of work against the Broncos provides examples of both.

In the November 2012 game at Arrowhead Stadium, the Chiefs were in the midst of their worst season in club history, but Charles racked up 107 yards and averaged 4.65 yards per carry. It wasn't enough for the win, but it created a game more suspenseful than anyone imagined prior to kickoff, as Kansas City dictated the tempo in a game that remains the lowest-scoring regular-season game for the Broncos sincePeyton Manning's arrival.

In January 2010, Charles showed his explosion with a 259-yard performance that remains his best in the series, and provided the Chiefs with their most lopsided win at Denver in the last 30 years.

2. CONTAIN THE CHIEFS' EDGE RUSHERS. When the Chiefs had Houston and Tamba Hali healthy in their Week 11 trip to Denver last November, the story of the Broncos' 27-17 win was how clean the Broncos' offensive tackles and tight ends kept the pocket, as Manning was never hit during the game. Houston amassed 10 total tackles, and Hali added four, but neither was a factor in the pass rush.

Chris Clark and Ryan Clady held up well last week in pass protection against the Colts' weakened corps of edge rushers. This will be a more difficult test.

3. MAKE THE BIG PLAY DOWNFIELD.

Last year, the Broncos overcame the Chiefs' fast start at Arrowhead Stadium by uncorking the deep ball. Manning completed six passes covering at least 31 yards -- two of which were screen passes, with the rest long tosses. Eric Decker capitalized better than any other Broncos target, catching three of the deep balls. Emmanuel Sanders' speed could open up more horizons in this aspect of the offense.

Running back Montee Ball had his best day as a pro against the Chiefs last year, with his first 100-yard game in the NFL. If the Broncos can get production from him and the other running backs, they can force safety Eric Berry to attack the run, and set up more opportunities for downfield strikes.

Broncos Ring of Fame inductees connect with fans

By Ben Swanson denverbroncos.com September 13, 2014

DENVER —Rick Upchurch and his Broncos teammates weren't happy with what national commentators said about Denver when he was a player. They called it a "cow town." And Upchurch didn't take too kindly to or Howard Cosell saying those words.

"We knew the type of fan base that we had and so what we did at that particular time was reach out to our fan base," he said.

What that meant was a grassroots style campaign crossing America's western states from Arizona to Wyoming to introduce themselves to strangers.

"We would go out, sit in their home, eat dinner with them, play with their children, sit in their RV’s after the game, have a cocktail with them. We were really personal back in the '70s and '80s."

"Now look at what we have: a big fan base all over the country. We built that fan base right here in the Rocky Mountains and we're proud of it," Upchurch said. "I am so proud that we helped build that fan base that we have today because we realized that here in Denver that our gans were the number one objective of playing the game and making them proud of who we were."

With over 30 years separating the present from the last time former Bronco , it's easy to see the distinct changes the NFL has undergone since those days of knocking on doors.

With their inductions into the Broncos Ring of Fame, Upchurch, and Dan Reeves spent their time Friday talking with fans on a conference call reflecting on their past that made them such memorable parts of team history worthy of recognition.

Mingo, whose football career is 40 years behind him, was surprised at all the memories people brought up that he had forgotten, like the time quarterback threw an interception but Mingo laid a hit so hard on the defender that he fumbled and Mingo recovered.

Though most of the time Mingo played as the place-kicker or kick returner, he was an extremely versatile talent also capable of running the ball as a halfback. However, sometimes he had to fill in at unusual spots, like the time he played on the offensive line.

"The guard got hurt and I had to rush out there. Otherwise we were going to get a penalty," Mingo recalled. He rushed out during the play call to the confusion of Tripucka and to the derision of the opposing defensive line.

On the other side of Mingo was Chargers defensive tackle Ernie Ladd, a 300-pound lineman nicknamed "The Big Cat" who moonlighted as a professional wrestler. Ladd was cracking up at the sight of the 205-pound Mingo coming to face him.

"What could I do at 205 against these 300-pounders?" Mingo recalled wondering. "So I did like you catch a baby. I just jumped in his arms and he laughed. He had to catch me."

The special anecdotes stand out, but the big moments are always there in his memory, too. Mingo of course remembers the first game, in which he scored the AFL's first punt return for a touchdown, but he also remembers the one when he broke Lou Groza's record for field goals made in a season.

Upchurch also had his memories, but chose to reflect more on the emotions the game has left with him.

"The number one thing was my teammates," Upchurch said on his favorite part of playing football. "The camaraderie that you build and the family atmosphere that you build with your teammates and then you go on to do positive things, it's something that you really can't explain. It sits in your heart for all your life, you reflect back on those things, you get on the phone and call your teammates and tell them a bunch of lies and little bit of the truth and the stories get bigger than what they really were. And with your teammates you can always come back to the alumni weekends, you can always call them on the phone if something’s going wrong. My excitement, my greatest time, was being with my teammates."

He also briefly discussed the challenges of a punt returner in the decades past, about how punting was an exquisite art. "Those punters could do some magnificent things like a golf ball with a golf club, like a nine iron or pitching wedge," he said.

He wrapped up his segment on the call with fans by telling them abotu his mindset when he was a player. "The first thing is being true to yourself and being true to the game. You have to put in the work," Upchurch said. "Let me tell you, I didn't want anybody to outwork me and I don't think anybody did. If I knew somebody was working harder than me, that meant they had the advantage."

"I was always told by my high school coach if you make a commitment to the game, it'll make a commitment to you," Upchurch said in closing. Former Broncos Head Coach Dan Reeves can certainly attest to that.

Reeves was asked about his transition from player to head coach, going from playing under Tom Landry to coaching on his staff before coming to Denver. He had never considered coaching in his career path, but when Reeves' playing career was coming to a close, Landry asked if he wanted to make that jump as a player-coach, so he did.

In his first two years the team went to the Super Bowl, winning the latter against the Miami Dolphins. Reeves had given himself to the game from an early age, and it would repay him with a long career.

"It kind of got in my blood," Reeves said of coaching football. "And they don't have a transfusion to get it out."

The Broncos would be his first head coaching opportunity, and that first game might have been his favorite memory. The Broncos took down the defending Super Bowl champion Raiders at home by a score of 9-7. Of course, the most famous win of his career forever marked by "" will hold a special spot in his heart. "A tremendous accomplishment that still brings chills to me when I watch it," as Reeves described it.

These days Reeves says he's doing speaking engagements and catching up on his "honey-do's" for Pam, his wife of 50 years, following his 39 years in football.

All these years later, Reeves said he won't forget his time in Denver. "Your first in anything is special and to be my first head coaching job here in Denver was tremendously special. I'll never forget those 12 years."