cutlerfan
01-25-2008, 07:09 AM
Top linebackers dodge draft
By Bill Williamson
Denver Post Broncos, NFL Beat Reporter
Article Last Updated: 01/25/2008 01:48:38 AM MST
Developments at the recent deadline for underclassmen to apply for the draft weren't kind to the Broncos. The decisions by middle linebackers James Laurinaitis of Ohio State and Rey Maualuga of Southern California to return to school decreased the talent pool. Only Penn State's Dan Connor seems like a surefire first-round pick, but it is not clear if he is worthy of the No. 12 pick that Denver owns.
The Broncos will be looking for help at linebacker, defensive tackle or safety in the first round, but also could look at an offensive tackle such as Boise State's Ryan Clady. Denver could look at defensive linemen such as USC's Sedrick Ellis or North Carolina's Kentwan Balmer, but both might be off the board at No. 12. Another possibility is Miami's Kenny Phillips, the best safety available.
Look for Denver to try to pick up another second-round pick in its quest for more impact choices. Denver has eight picks in the April draft, but none in the third or sixth round. Denver has extra choices in the fourth, fifth and seventh rounds, which could be used to trade up on draft day.
Also watch for the Broncos to be active in free agency without spending big dollars as they did a year ago. One or two starting quality players likely will be added.
Kroenke in St. Louis?
There is continued talk that Nuggets and Avalanche owner Stan Kroenke will take over as majority owner of the St. Louis Rams in the aftermath of the death of Georgia Frontiere, who had controlling interest. Kroenke owns 40 percent of the Rams, and word is that many inside the Rams' organization want him to take control. There would be major complications before he could do so. Under NFL guidelines, an owner of teams in other sports leagues cannot be the majority NFL owner in a different city. The rule appears to be hard and fast. Therefore, if Kroenke were to want to run the Rams, he'd have to sell his majority role in the Nuggets and Avalanche, which seems unlikely. There appears to be no rush for a resolution in St. Louis.
Wilson update
The Al Wilson watch should heat up after the Super Bowl. After the Broncos' former middle linebacker and defensive captain was cleared to return to the NFL last month, his Denver-based agent Peter Schaffer received several calls about Wilson's availability.
Wilson is working out and is expected to try to decide on his future in February before the free-agency period begins Feb. 29. Because Wilson was cut by Denver last April, he is free to sign with any team.
Around the league
The Broncos should pay attention to reports that Detroit will either trade or release defensive tackle Shaun Rogers. The Broncos have been enamored of Rogers. A potential stumbling block is Denver wanting to hold onto its high draft picks. Denver has dealt well with his agents, so it wouldn't be a surprise if they try to work a deal for Rogers. . . . Don't be surprised if Bradlee Van Pelt signs with a Canadian Football League team this spring. The former Colorado State standout wants to play quarterback and his best option is north of the border, not the NFL. . . . The Chargers are thrilled with the late-season development of Northern Colorado product Vincent Jackson. The wide receiver has shown the ability to be a future No. 1 receiver.
By Bill Williamson
Denver Post Broncos, NFL Beat Reporter
Article Last Updated: 01/25/2008 01:48:38 AM MST
Developments at the recent deadline for underclassmen to apply for the draft weren't kind to the Broncos. The decisions by middle linebackers James Laurinaitis of Ohio State and Rey Maualuga of Southern California to return to school decreased the talent pool. Only Penn State's Dan Connor seems like a surefire first-round pick, but it is not clear if he is worthy of the No. 12 pick that Denver owns.
The Broncos will be looking for help at linebacker, defensive tackle or safety in the first round, but also could look at an offensive tackle such as Boise State's Ryan Clady. Denver could look at defensive linemen such as USC's Sedrick Ellis or North Carolina's Kentwan Balmer, but both might be off the board at No. 12. Another possibility is Miami's Kenny Phillips, the best safety available.
Look for Denver to try to pick up another second-round pick in its quest for more impact choices. Denver has eight picks in the April draft, but none in the third or sixth round. Denver has extra choices in the fourth, fifth and seventh rounds, which could be used to trade up on draft day.
Also watch for the Broncos to be active in free agency without spending big dollars as they did a year ago. One or two starting quality players likely will be added.
Kroenke in St. Louis?
There is continued talk that Nuggets and Avalanche owner Stan Kroenke will take over as majority owner of the St. Louis Rams in the aftermath of the death of Georgia Frontiere, who had controlling interest. Kroenke owns 40 percent of the Rams, and word is that many inside the Rams' organization want him to take control. There would be major complications before he could do so. Under NFL guidelines, an owner of teams in other sports leagues cannot be the majority NFL owner in a different city. The rule appears to be hard and fast. Therefore, if Kroenke were to want to run the Rams, he'd have to sell his majority role in the Nuggets and Avalanche, which seems unlikely. There appears to be no rush for a resolution in St. Louis.
Wilson update
The Al Wilson watch should heat up after the Super Bowl. After the Broncos' former middle linebacker and defensive captain was cleared to return to the NFL last month, his Denver-based agent Peter Schaffer received several calls about Wilson's availability.
Wilson is working out and is expected to try to decide on his future in February before the free-agency period begins Feb. 29. Because Wilson was cut by Denver last April, he is free to sign with any team.
Around the league
The Broncos should pay attention to reports that Detroit will either trade or release defensive tackle Shaun Rogers. The Broncos have been enamored of Rogers. A potential stumbling block is Denver wanting to hold onto its high draft picks. Denver has dealt well with his agents, so it wouldn't be a surprise if they try to work a deal for Rogers. . . . Don't be surprised if Bradlee Van Pelt signs with a Canadian Football League team this spring. The former Colorado State standout wants to play quarterback and his best option is north of the border, not the NFL. . . . The Chargers are thrilled with the late-season development of Northern Colorado product Vincent Jackson. The wide receiver has shown the ability to be a future No. 1 receiver.