After a couple of years out of the mix in the hunt for a Super Bowl
appearance, the consensus on the 2001 Broncos is that they're poised to be
legitimate contenders to win it all again.
|
CAMP AT A GLANCE
|
| |
Brian Griese missed six games in 2000. |
|
Location: University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colo.
Rookies report: July 26
Veterans report: July 26
Preseason schedule:
Aug. 11: at Dallas
Aug. 20: at Green Bay
Aug. 25: New Orleans
Aug. 31: San Francisco
|
Mike Shanahan has retooled his team and hired a new defensive coordinator in
the fiery Ray Rhodes, formerly the head coach of the Packers.
As has been the case even in their best years as Super Bowl champions, the
Broncos' offense has always been better than their defense. So perhaps the
presence of Rhodes catches up the defense.
Man in the spotlight
Quarterback Brian Griese must prove that his
previously-ailing right shoulder is back to full strength and stay healthy
for a full season. He's coming off a Pro Bowl season and has been signed to a
healthy extension, but questions still remain about whether he's the real
thing for the long term.
Key position battle
Incredible as it sounds, but running back is the
position in the spotlight -- and it's hardly a position of weakness. The
candidates to be the feature back are former 2,000-yard rusher Terrell Davis
along with proven 1,000-yard runners Olandis Gary and Mike Anderson, who was
the star last year. No team in the land has a stronger group of running backs.
Biggest adjustment
The Denver defense to Rhodes. Gone is the energetic Greg
Robinson as well as both starting cornerbacks, Terrell Buckley and Ray
Crockett. In are Rhodes, defensive tackles Chester McGlockton and Leon Lett
and former Titans' starting cornerback Denard Walker.
Rookie report
In theme with the above thought, the Broncos' first three
draft picks were used on defensive players -- Minnesota cornerback Willie
Middlebrooks, Marshall defensive end Paul Toviessi and Iowa State defensive
end Reggie Hayward. The Broncos also drafted Cal punter Nick Harris in the
fourth round with hopes he'll step right in.
Broncos' complete offseason moves