Mike Klis Previews 2017 Free Agency

This is a very useful checklist by Mike Klis compiled on where the Broncos may be heading in a few days.  I have some thoughts on it, but first, here are the highlights:

  1. Brandon McManus and Todd Davis are both expected to receive a second round RFA tender.
  2. Tony Romo could be indeed be in play for the Broncos for the earlier speculated price of $10-$12 million APY.
  3. Quoting Vance Joseph, the Broncos are looking for a left tackle…
  4. …but aren’t looking for a right tackle.
  5. The Broncos are also looking for a right guard (and are set with Max Garcia at left guard).
  6. The Broncos need to replace Sylvester Williams, and may go “budget” at the nose tackle position.
  7. Defensive end is cited as the more urgent need, with Calais Campbell atop the list and Lawrence Guy cited as an alternative.

You can find my thoughts beyond the fold. Continue reading Mike Klis Previews 2017 Free Agency

Which Offensive Linemen Are More Likely To Cash In?

With the 2017 NFL season to begin next week, unrestricted free agency coming with it, and the common knowledge that the Denver Broncos need help on the offensive line, particularly at left and right tackle, I wanted to explore what I believe will likely happen with the offensive line market.

Although our attentions have been primarily focused on offensive tackles, I think we need to keep in mind that the Broncos might believe it’s better to take a different approach than just chasing after free agent offensive tackles, and instead focus on the best possible offensive linemen they can get in each wave of free agency. That’s because more teams are starting to focus their energies and cap dollars toward acquiring the best offensive lineman possible, rather than the old “left tackle is the priority” way of thinking that once dominated the landscape.
Continue reading Which Offensive Linemen Are More Likely To Cash In?

New Locker Room Disease Metaphors for Sports Writers and Fans

We’ve all heard the term “locker room cancer” applied to a certain type of player. But it got me thinking – what other types of player-diseases are there in locker rooms, and what are the symptoms? Below is my list (with diagnostic assistance provided by Yahmule). As much as possible, I’ve tried to echo the symptoms of the disease with the behavior of the player. Feel free to add your own in the comments!

Locker room CANCER: player who causes locker room turmoil by expressing his aberrant personality way too freely. Example: Terrell Owens, Richie Incognito

Locker room ARTHRITIS: player who has been very good, but is going through a rough spot, so everyone has to be gentle about his mistakes and treat him with kid gloves. Example: Peyton Manning
Continue reading New Locker Room Disease Metaphors for Sports Writers and Fans