Here's the catch: Dropped passes plaguing WR Watts

[SouthernBronco]

How long do we wait for Watts? Charlie Adams anyone?

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/local/15175218.htm


Here's the catch: Dropped passes plaguing WR Watts
PAT GRAHAM
Associated Press

DENVER - Near the goal line, receiver Darius Watts bluffed like he was going toward the sideline and immediately cut back into the middle.

The safety covering him was faked out of his cleats and the pass was on the money. But the ball hit Watts in the hands and fell to the turf during Tuesday's morning practice.

That's pretty much how training camp has been going for Watts.

Dropped passes have plagued Watts since he was drafted in the second round out of Marshall University in 2004.

The Broncos were hoping the drops were behind him. Denver coach Mike Shanahan even singled him out during team camp in June for his solid play.

"He showed a lot more confidence, very consistent catching the ball," Shanahan said. "Darius can always get open. He's got unbelievable quickness. He was a little inconsistent with his hands."

That's followed him into camp. He will make a sensational catch on a long play and then drop a ball over the middle. Shanahan has called him aside on occasion.

"I'm listening to what he's saying," Watts said. "I'm taking it in and trying to use what he's saying.

"You've got to have a short memory with it. You've got to hope for another chance to make up for it."

After Tuesday's practice, Watts remained behind to work on pass routes.

"I'm staying after because it's still on my mind," Watts said of the dropped pass. "I got to shake it off real quick."

During his rookie season, Watts caught 31 passes for 385 yards and one touchdown. Last season, he had just two catches and spent most of the year inactive.

Preseason will again be vital for Watts. A year ago, he made the team - and sent Jerry Rice into retirement - with a two-touchdown performance against Arizona in the final preseason game.

"Preseason games are always big," he said. "Everybody in the NFL is looking at you, so you got to do good. If they cut you here somebody else might see the game and want to pick you up. You've got to do your best."

---

STOOPS PAYS A VISIT@: Successful coaches like to check out what other successful coaches are doing. That's why University of Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops and his staff showed up at Dove Valley on Tuesday.

"I've always had great admiration and respect for coach Shanahan and how his teams have played," Stoops said. "I thought it was a great opportunity to look at how they run their practices ... and meetings."

Although they've never crossed paths, Shanahan and Stoops have similar coaching stops on their resumes. Both coached at Florida and Oklahoma.

"At Oklahoma, he was with coach (Barry) Switzer for a period of time," Stoops said. "Coach Switzer always talks about coach Shanahan and what a great guy he was when he was with him."

Stoops even offered up some Oklahoma trivia involving Broncos owner Pat Bowlen.

"Mr. Bowlen has two degrees (business and law) from Oklahoma. Not many people know that," Stoops said.

---

ROLLING MEADOWS@: Offensive lineman Adam Meadows arrived at practice Tuesday and is happy to be playing football again.

Meadows was in Carolina's training camp in 2004 before retiring due to a shoulder injury. Meadows has spent the last two years out of football after playing from 1997 to 2003 with Indianapolis.

"I was really missing it," Meadows said. "I'm rusty. I want to get there. I want to compete. Do I want to start? Absolutely. Am I going to start? Maybe not. But whatever role I'm in I want to do it well."

Meadows said his shoulder got so bad he couldn't even wash his face at night. That's why he decided to step away from the game. He ran a residential construction and real estate development company in Georgia, but realized he still had the urge to play football.

"This boat only goes down the river one time," Meadows said. "I've got to get on the boat. Let's go down the river until it won't go anymore."

---

QUICK HITS@: Asked if there were any developments with holdout WR Ashley Lelie, GM Ted Sundquist said, "Nothing here." ... TE Nate Jackson was held out of practice with an ankle injury. "I'll be all right in a couple of days," Jackson said. ... WR Todd Devoe (shoulder), WR Domenik Hixon (foot), OT Erik Pears (finger), S Sam Brandon (hamstring) and DE Kenard Lang (stomach virus) also missed the morning workout. ... DE Courtney Brown missed some time with an inflamed knee. "(Holding him out is) more preventative than anything," Shanahan said.

[AdamantiumBronco]

:ugh: If not for the drops he'd be No.3 for sure, and we would be solid running three reciever sets...

[DenBronx]

:ugh: If not for the drops he'd be No.3 for sure, and we would be solid running three reciever sets...


uh oh....looks like watts is going to lose ground quick. but i hear the words....marshal....marshal....marshal!

[aberdien]

I'd like to see Adams at #3.

If we still had B.J. Johnson...

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..

[Javalon]

Everybody has been having their bad days. Unfortunately, I think this is two in a row for Watts.

I'm still pulling for the guy. But if he can't cure his case of the dropsies, I don't believe he will be on the team for a fourth training camp.

Come on, Darius! You've got the tools to be a Pro Bowl receiver if you'll just make the catch! If he can just get over this, we'll have a dominant set of receivers.

[Javalon]

I'd like to see Adams at #3.

If we still had B.J. Johnson...

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..
:ugh: If anybody else can returns kickoffs, I'm hoping to see Adams finally get cut. He has never impressed me in the slightest.


Marshall or Terrell will probably be the #3 if Watts continues to drop the ball, IMO.

[ECBronco]

I'd like to see Adams at #3.

If we still had B.J. Johnson...

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..

I can agree with someone saying that Watts is disappointing but how can you say that he doesn't have much potential? He has a TON of potential and he could be a great #3 WR if he got these drops under control.

I am not a big Adams fan and I think there is a good chance he isn't making the team this year.

I really hope that Marshall can make an impact.

[WildHorse]

I'd like to see Adams at #3.

If we still had B.J. Johnson...

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..

Good grief! Adams did just about zero last year as the number three!! I applaud his hard work and sticking with it, but I really have my hopes up for Marshall or Watts or some other significant improvement at number 3. At least they would cause opponents some concern, compared with last year. We criticize the heck out of Watts, but he had more catches in one season than Adams may have in his entire NFL career!

[ReleaseTheBeast7]

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..

Never saw much potential?! He broke EVERY ONE of Randy Moss' records in college, and you say you never saw much potential?

You must of not been watching the same games as I have(When he was in college, at least)

[Hansolo]

I'd like to see Adams at #3.

If we still had B.J. Johnson...

I never saw that much potential in Watts anyway..



I saw the potential the first time I watched him on Broncos cam during training in his rookie season. This was way before I heard anyone (coaches) rav about how fast he was. I was like, "man that was a fast cut!". Watching him play (during that first and beginning of the second season) I could see everytime he went out and made a cut it was like he was in fast forward the second he made the cut and the cb was in slo mo. As everyone keeps saying... if this guys gets it together with his catching... WOW! He will be open ALL the time. He will be the ultimate 3rd down go to guy.

I hope he gets on track.

:ugh:

[Perry1977]

Never saw much potential?! He broke EVERY ONE of Randy Moss' records in college, and you say you never saw much potential?

You must of not been watching the same games as I have(When he was in college, at least)


Actually, I did some checking up on it, and I think he only broke the TD reception record of Moss...anyways it was only one. Regardless, it's still damned impressive.

[ClaptonFloyd]

I think at least either Darius Watts or Brandon Marshall will be a nice 3rd receiver, I doubt both will turn out, but hopefully at least one

[HORSEPOWER 56]

Darius Watts is "Clifford Franklin". Just give the guy some damn stick 'em and let him do it again! :goofy:

[champbronc2]

Man I'm hoping for him so much but he's on the edge here.

[Jaws]

:ugh: If anybody else can returns kickoffs, I'm hoping to see Adams finally get cut. He has never impressed me in the slightest.


Marshall or Terrell will probably be the #3 if Watts continues to drop the ball, IMO.

David Kircus returns punts and kickoffs and he's been putting in some good effort and fair displays at camp. As this excerpt from a newspaper article would show:

His speed makes him an ideal candidate for special teams — he was working with the punt and punt return teams Monday. He also was working with the first- and second-team offenses, meaning he has a shot to earn playing time there as well.



Otherwise I believe it's pretty thin for returners, which is Adams's main (only?) trump card towards ensuring he doesn't get cut.

[jhns]

From the way camp is going, if everything carries the same into preseason, I see Marshall being our #3 and Watts the #4. I also do not see Adams even making the team this year for whoever said that. I think Adams has shown the least over the years and never has been very good. I can see Watts getting some balls even at #4 though, if we do end up going a lot of 3 wide they will probably rotate Marshall and Watts in as the #3 receiver depending on the situation. That is all only if Watts can learn to catch a lot more balls. I would say I'm more excited about seeing what Marshall can do, I have almost given up on Watts at this point but I would love to see him start being consistent with his catches. Marshall could become a great #2 behind Walker when Smith retires if he develops right. That size and strength can really tear up some defenses.

[rcsodak]

Never saw much potential?! He broke EVERY ONE of Randy Moss' records in college, and you say you never saw much potential?

You must of not been watching the same games as I have(When he was in college, at least)
Which of the big channes, is it, ecb, that carries Marshall games? :goofy:

And I'm sure even YOU have said on occasion that college stats don't mean didley come sundays. ;)

[Nick]

I really want Watts to do well so he can land the #3. His ability to seperate himself and great athletic ability shows he could even be a #2 in league. Unfortunatly he still can't hold onto ball.

With Marshall doing very well as well as working on his punt and kick returns.

I say wants better start doing better if he wants to be on the team. I know with contract and all.. you think they would release him after season but that is roster space and if Adams Dvoe Kircus etc., step up there game. Watts will not be around.

He just needs to hold onto the ball :mad:

[The Hamburgler]

I do not see watts making this team. just me. He has hands made of stone. :D

[HolyDiver]

Watts' drops...................this is exactly why Charlie Adams was active and Watts wasn't.......................I think we will see the same thing this season, but Watts will be released outright................. Adams is not spectacular, but he CAN be counted on. Watts cannot. I think we will see Rod, Walker, Marshall, Adams and Devoe as our 5 WR's. And there is nothing wrong with those five if you ask me.

[Bronx84]

Watts' drops...................this is exactly why Charlie Adams was active and Watts wasn't.......................I think we will see the same thing this season, but Watts will be released outright................. Adams is not spectacular, but he CAN be counted on. Watts cannot. I think we will see Rod, Walker, Marshall, Adams and Devoe as our 5 WR's. And there is nothing wrong with those five if you ask me.
I disagree I think Watts will catch the ball and make the team as the third, and the WR' will look like this, Smith, Walker, Watts, Marshall, and Kircus.

[HolyDiver]

I disagree I think Watts will catch the ball and make the team as the third, and the WR' will look like this, Smith, Walker, Watts, Marshall, and Kircus.

If Watts doesn't start catching everything thrown to him, which I do not see him doing, then he won't make the team. ...................can't keep using a roster spot from potential. I would love to see him turn it around, because he could definately be a playmaker. But I also know that the most important aspect of a Bronco Wide Receiver is to be able to be counted on to make the key first down reception. I don't think Adams has done anything to hurt his chances, where as Watts has not done enough, so far, to improve his.

[Bronx84]

If Watts doesn't start catching everything thrown to him, which I do not see him doing, then he won't make the team. ...................can't keep using a roster spot from potential. I would love to see him turn it around, because he could definately be a playmaker. But I also know that the most important aspect of a Bronco Wide Receiver is to be able to be counted on to make the key first down reception. I don't think Adams has done anything to hurt his chances, where as Watts has not done enough, so far, to improve his.
I do think that as well, but I think that he will improve to catch the ball and earn his roster spot. But like you said if he doesn't improve to catch the ball then someone else deserves the spot.

[ReleaseTheBeast7]

Which of the big channes, is it, ecb, that carries Marshall games? :goofy:

And I'm sure even YOU have said on occasion that college stats don't mean didley come sundays. ;)

To tell you the truth, I've never said that. I never really got into an argument about it to even think about it.

I do, however, think 40 times, shuttle times, or in this case, the whole NFL combine is a waste of time and doesn't show if the player can play or not.

A 4.68 40 time that can find holes and still get to the next level(Terrell Davis)
Or a 4.32 40 time that can get to the next level, but only on toss plays(Tatum Bell)

Hmmmmmmmmmm

[Cugel]

If Watts doesn't start catching everything thrown to him, which I do not see him doing, then he won't make the team. ...................can't keep using a roster spot from potential. I would love to see him turn it around, because he could definately be a playmaker. But I also know that the most important aspect of a Bronco Wide Receiver is to be able to be counted on to make the key first down reception. I don't think Adams has done anything to hurt his chances, where as Watts has not done enough, so far, to improve his.
Watts and Adams are NOT competing for the same spot as WRs.

Watts is not much of a special teams player. He's either going to be the #3 or #4 WR or he won't make it at all. Marshall is now looking like the #3 and he's certain to make the squad because he's a high draft choice with real potential.

That leaves Watts fighting it out with a bunch of guys: David Terrell, Rashuaan Woods, Todd Devoe, David Kircus and Hixon. Two of those players will make the team, and one will probably be from among Hixon, Devoe or Kircus because of their special teams play.

IF Adams makes it it will be because of his play on special teams, NOT because of his play as WR. He doesn't have the talent of any of the WRs ahead of him. Hell, he doesn't have the talent of Todd Devoe or David Kircus as WRs.

His ONE attribute is hard work and consistency. . . . His TWO main attributes are hard work and consistency and reliability. . .

AMONG his attributes are such diverse elements as: hard work, consistency, reliability and oooh! I'll start again!

[end Monty Python spoof] :laugh:

[vandyman53]

Everybody has been having their bad days. Unfortunately, I think this is two in a row for Watts.

I'm still pulling for the guy. But if he can't cure his case of the dropsies, I don't believe he will be on the team for a fourth training camp.

Come on, Darius! You've got the tools to be a Pro Bowl receiver if you'll just make the catch! If he can just get over this, we'll have a dominant set of receivers.

Sounds like Tyrone Calico of the Titans

[dogfish]

Watts' drops...................this is exactly why Charlie Adams was active and Watts wasn't.......................I think we will see the same thing this season, but Watts will be released outright................. Adams is not spectacular, but he CAN be counted on. Watts cannot. I think we will see Rod, Walker, Marshall, Adams and Devoe as our 5 WR's. And there is nothing wrong with those five if you ask me.


yea, adams can be counted on. . . . to average about 7 ypc!

:ugh: :ugh:




i'll betcha a dollar kirkus makes the team though! :cheers:

[muse]

I'm thinking we'll be carrying 6 receivers this year. Shanny himself praised the talent we have in this corps...

I really hope Darius clicks...this should, after all, be his breakout year.

#1 Rod
#2 Javon
#3 Darius
#4 Brandon
#5 Todd Devoe
#6 David Kircus

[Archimedes Owl]

Watts' drops...................this is exactly why Charlie Adams was active and Watts wasn't.......................I think we will see the same thing this season, but Watts will be released outright................. Adams is not spectacular, but he CAN be counted on. Watts cannot. I think we will see Rod, Walker, Marshall, Adams and Devoe as our 5 WR's. And there is nothing wrong with those five if you ask me.

Hmm. . .

In his rookie year, Watts caught 58% of the passes thrown his way.

Last year, Adams caught 58% of the passes thrown his way.

Watts averaged 12.4 yards per reception while Adams averaged less than 10 yards per reception.

Watts had more receptions his rookie year.

It isn't a lie that Watts has had some trouble catching the ball. In his rookie year a couple of bad drops really stand out. We may well have won the game against the Raiders if he didn't drop the ball when he did.

Adams and Devoe beat Watts out last year for two reasons:

1. He had trouble with drops. He has to go the preseason showing that he's improved that facet of his game. He made good progress in mini-camp. If he shows better the rest of this training camp, he can still win some playing time.

2. He doesn't play special teams. Devoe and Adams both played special teams, so the coaches opted to activate them.


Anyway, if he really shows poorly and shows that he can't catch the ball, Watts stands a good chance of not making the team, but I wouldn't count him out just yet. It's still early.

Man, I just wish that I could go watch them in camp, so I could judge for myself, but I can't. :(

Oh well, we'll see, but Cugel is right. Watts isn't competing with Adams for a spot. He's competing as a reciever primarily. Adams is competing as somebody who will field returns. I think that Adams only makes the teams if another returner can't be found. I base this on the tremendous dropoff from '04 to last year in the play at third WR. Adams is clearly not as good a reciever as Watts.

[Medford Bronco]

How about David Terrell for a number 3 WR? I do not think he would have stayed around all last year without getting a chance to compete this year. MHO.


I just wish Mr Selfish was here. If so we would be stacked at WR :ugh:

[vicious2500]

How about David Terrell for a number 3 WR? I do not think he would have stayed around all last year without getting a chance to compete this year. MHO.


I just wish Mr Selfish was here. If so we would be stacked at WR :ugh:

As it stands right now David Terrell will be on his way out. He's been outplayed by basically every WR with a year under his belt you would think he'd be outplaying undrafted FAs at least, but this isn't the case. He also doesn't play special teams so I see Terrell off the team by the next roster cut down.

[Jaws]

As it stands right now David Terrell will be on his way out. He's been outplayed by basically every WR with a year under his belt you would think he'd be outplaying undrafted FAs at least, but this isn't the case. He also doesn't play special teams so I see Terrell off the team by the next roster cut down.

According to reports from the last couple of days he is finally starting to pickup.

He's going to need to do something special in preseason IMO not to get cut.

[JRWIZ]

According to reports from the last couple of days he is finally starting to pickup.

He's going to need to do something special in preseason IMO not to get cut.

I suspect unless he sohows something by game two he is gone to be relewased so he can catch on with someone else.

If they cut him or any of the other WR's early it causes ashleys price to drop by the teams that really need a WR.

[vicious2500]

According to reports from the last couple of days he is finally starting to pickup.

He's going to need to do something special in preseason IMO not to get cut.

Well he better, but he's basically at the bottom of the depth chart right now, because of his poor play prior to yesterday. Kircus has been a pleasant surprise and he also plays special teams which is great. If he plays well enough we can kill two birds with one stone getting rid of Terrell and Adams.