Daily Links have been hard to write the past few weeks, mostly because there’s just not enough to “link about.” Well, I’m going to fight through that, even if it means grabbing stories from across the NFL (or “at lower elevations,” as I like to say). And away we go…

• Randy Gradishar should been enshrined in the Hall of Fame years ago. Now this is his last chance to enter the Hall as a modern player. [CBS4 Denver]
• Great article discussing why Gradishar belongs in Canton, Ohio. Hopefully another writer from the RMN, Jeff Legwold, will present a damn good case and right this wrong. [Rocky Mountain News]
• Shannon Sharpe says Javon Walker‘s gotta go. I’m beginning to agree with him. [Denver Post]
• This writer thinks drafting a young stud DT and signing a big veteran free agent linebacker is the way to go for the Broncos. He has a certain Al Wilson in mind. [Grand Junction Sentinel]

Droughns was the Broncos’ leading rusher in 2004.

In 1997, the Denver Broncos touched immortality. 10 years later, 3 players who once called themselves Broncos find themselves playing for a chance to share that dream.

To do it, they’ll have to pull off the biggest upset in NFL history.

For WR Domenik Hixon, RB Reuben Droughns, and CB Jeff Shoate, the road to the Super Bowl didn’t end on the same road it started. Each player spent the early part of their respective careers with the Denver Broncos, where expectations are always high, and the goal of reaching a Super Bowl seemed possible each year. Each player now finds himself a member of the New York Giants, whose surprising hot streak has earned them a trip to Glendale, AZ.

One player, Hixon, has been on a particularly emotional journey. As the media gravitated toward Glendale and the frenzy that is Super Bowl week, Hixon talked about his fateful hit in Week 1 on Kevin Everett that changed both their lives.

“I was hesitant after it happened,” said Hixon, who told Sirius NFL Radio that he had nightmares for days after the hit took place. “I thought about it a lot. It might have stayed in my head and hurt me enough to get cut. Everything happens for a reason.”

Hixon met Everett when the Giants played the Bills just over one month ago. He told reporters that meeting Kevin inspired him, and that the two are now good friends.

“I just prayed through the whole thing, and it got better,” Hixon said. “Kevin is doing great and I’m in the Super Bowl. It couldn’t be better.”

Hixon returned a kickoff 74 yards for a touchdown when the Giants played the Patriots in Week 17.

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With the long offseason ahead, BroncoTalk begins its look forward to the 2008 season by looking at the current state of the Broncos roster, position by position. We’ll take a look at the players signed through 2008, and give you our opinion on the need this position represents for the Broncos this offseason. Today we’re looking at running back. Enjoy.

2006’s running attack left a bad taste in most fans’ mouths. RB Tatum Bell struggled near the end of the year, and the offensive line did not play to the level most fans were used to. Traded away were RT George Foster and Bell, and many fans (including myself) believed the offensive line would play better with LT Matt Lepsis returning healthy and OT Erik Pears moving over to right tackle. With the high-profile signing of Travis Henry added to the mix, most believed the running game would return to its dominant ways.

Well, we were wrong. Injuries to both the offensive line and the running back positions were heavily to blame. For only the second time in Mike Shanahan‘s tenure as head coach, no running back rushed for over 1,000 yards. That being said, the Broncos still finished 9th in the NFL in rushing with over 120 yards per game. It’s a shame the rushing touchdowns didn’t match that number – just 10 for the year, good for 20th in the league, and the real indicator of how our once-dominant rushing offense has stumbled in the past two seasons.

Travis Henry

Contract Status: Signed through 2011.

I still believe Travis Henry has the potential to gain over 1,200 yards and 8 touchdowns as a Bronco next year. He started out the year as the league’s leading rusher and showed no signs of slowing before his various injuries sidelined him. The real question with Henry now is financial. His issues with marijuana were a huge distraction this season – with a $6 million bonus due him in a few months, there is no way he stays on the team without agreeing to restructure his deal. Tuesday morning he announced his full intentions to stay on the team, saying he’s “so hungry” and “owes” the Broncos organization and fans. We’ll see if this equates to a contract restructure.

In 2007: Started strong, but a pending suspension and a horde of injuries slowed him down. He ran for over 400 yards in the first 4 weeks of the season; he would rush for less than 300 more in the final 12. He was suspended for a year by the NFL but won his appeal.

In 2008: Henry told reporters that he was planning on adjusting his training regimen in preparation for the upcoming season. Hopefully this can help him stay healthy, but none of it will matter to the Broncos if he doesn’t restructure his deal. By order of Lord Goodell, Henry also never rotated out of the NFL’s substance abuse system – one slip and he’s suspended for a year.

Selvin Young

Contract Status: Signed through at least 2008.

Mike Shanahan said that he doesn’t believe Selvin Young is an every down back for the NFL. It seems like he was right – after starting a few games in Henry’s absence, Young went down with his own injuries. He even underwent minor knee surgery after the season was under wraps. He’s a big play threat whenever he touches the ball, but with durability issues he’s best suited as an explosive #2 behind an every-down back like Henry.

In 2007: A lot of fans saw a little bit of young Terrell Davis in Young’s first game action. While Henry was leading the league in rushing, Young was coming in for under 10 plays per game while averaging a whopping 10 yards per run or more. Once he became the feature back after Henry went down, his production tailed off. He finished the year with 729 yards, a healthy 5.2 average.

In 2008: He should be good to go following his minor knee surgery. If the position on the roster remains status quo, he’ll remain the #2 and hopefully do any little things he can to stay healthier next year.

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Photo Courtesy

Travis Henry says that he is on a mission this season to repay the coaching staff and fans of the Denver Broncos for the faith they put in him when he signed his free agent contract just under one year ago.  He’s already working out in Denver, where he has pledged to alter his regimen to ensure he stays healthy in 2008.

In a Denver Post story, Henry indicated that the hardest part about last season was how well it started before it all imploded.

“I want to make it right to the Broncos, the fans and myself. I want to be a Bronco and make it all right. I don’t want to be anywhere else. I owe those people something for all that happened last year. I want to clear my name there. I’m so hungry to do right there.

“…It was my toughest season. It was a big distraction for everyone, and then I started getting hurt. It was just a bad season all around.”

It really was a whirlwind year for Henry – starting out as the league’s leading rusher through two weeks, then through four weeks again. Reports of league suspensions started piling in. Hip and knee injuries sidelined him. Finally, he was vindicated from his suspension, but even then his health never allowed him to reach that same level with which he started the season.

Do the Broncos want Henry back? I think there’s no way he comes back next year at the current price. Preliminary talks have begun about restructuring Henry’s deal, but Henry says he’s staying out of it.

It might be wise to jump into those financial situations if you’re really sincere about wanting to be a Bronco, Mr. Henry. Even Mike Shanahan‘s press conference indicated that there’s little to no chance you’ll stay at the current price:

“I think the question everybody has, you take a look at the money involved, you have to make a decision about what you think is best for the organization because once you make that commitment, it’s a big thing, so you’ve got to look at everything.”

Two of our superstars heading into 2007 might be on their way out (Javon Walker being the other), but at least Henry is approaching his situation with a positive attitude that could merit him returning to Denver next year and thereafter.

A fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection and ninth for his career isn’t enough to sway John Lynch‘s thinking either way. The veteran safety still hasn’t decided whether he will hang ’em up this season or if he’ll return for a fifth year as a Bronco.

“The answer is that I haven’t made that decision yet. I’m not being evasive or anything. It’s just being true with you that I haven’t come to that time,” Lynch said.

Andrew Mason of DenverBroncos.com points out that Lynch indicated that he hasn’t given the subject the amount of time and thought it’s due. “I feel great. I still love the game,” Lynch said, “but I think that will be the case if I’m 50 years old.”

Now’s the time to think about it, John. He had a nice family vacation, reportedly going skiing and enjoying watching the playoffs. But the Broncos are going to be needing a decision soon so they can make the necessary adjustments in free agency and the draft. I’ve already voiced that I hope Lynch can stay another season – hopefully we’ll take a safety in the first three rounds to groom while Lynch finishes a Hall of Fame career.

Last offseason Jay Cutler and the Denver Broncos collectively took between one and two months off before heading back into the training room in preparation for the upcoming season. That may seem like a long time, but it’s hard to blame them – with the untimely death of Darrent Williams fresh on everyone’s mind and an inexperienced group of core players, no one knew how to start out the 2007 offseason.

This year, though, Cutler and company are already back in action.

In a recent interview with Sporting News Radio, Jay indicated that he is already training for 2008 in Atlanta. With him are teammates Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler. Cutler also said “a few other guys” have been there with them, and that this group only took two weeks off.

Cutler also talked candidly about Javon Walker, saying that Walker sounds like he has his own agenda and Head Coach Mike Shanahan isn’t one to put up with that.

The Monday Night Football Crew first broke the story that Cutler and company would be working out in Atlanta; I’m pleasantly surprised they’ve already been at it for a week now. Hopefully paying attention to “the little things” and giving that extra effort will pay dividends in the 2008 season.

Despite the rumors that there is a least one remaining game left in the 2007 season, I am now firmly in off-season mode. And what better way to begin the long dark months without a broncos football game, then to get to know your fellow fans?

Kyle, Earl and I have really appriciated all of the feedback and comments we’ve received this last year. Personally, one of the reason I started blogging about the broncos was to have engaging dialog with other broncos fans and BroncoTalk.net has certainly provide me with many of those!

And now I want to hear some more from our readers. This off-season I would like to give you, our readers, an opportunity to speak up and be heard.

For starters let’s do an easy one…

When and why did you become a Broncos fan?

Post a comment with your story.

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With the long offseason ahead, BroncoTalk begins its look forward to the 2008 season by looking at the current state of the Broncos roster, position by position. We’ll take a look at the players signed through 2008, and give you our opinion on the need this position represents for the Broncos this offseason. Today we’re looking at defensive tackle. Enjoy.

Eyebrows were raised when the Denver Broncos traded away Gerard Warren weeks before the season was set to begin. It appears now that those raised eyebrows were justified – the Broncos’ defensive tackle situation was horrible all year long. Sam Adams was never brought in to be a starter, but start he did for several weeks before he was released in November. The Broncos had to rely on a 4th round rookie Marcus Thomas to anchor the interior defensive line, a tall task for a young player who had been out of football for nearly a year. Many argue this is the Broncos’ biggest need this offseason, and it’s hard to disagree. If I had to guess now, I’d say that this position is the most likely to be addressed come draft day.

Marcus Thomas

Contract Status: Signed through 2010.

Thomas is a freak of nature. How many 300-plus pound linemen do you know that can perform backflips at any given moment? That’s Thomas for you. He’s the only player on the roster that is a lock for either 2008 or beyond. In his rookie season, Thomas played well, all things considered. I expect big things from him in they years to come.

In 2007: Thomas finished the year with 20 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble. He showed disruption at the line of scrimmage and was usually the only threat to come from the interior defensive line.

In 2008: Having a playmaker opposite Thomas would do wonders for him. He has the physical tools to be a star in this league. Constantly fighting double teams would hinder his growth and disrupt his confidence. He also needs to make sure he doesn’t get too comfortable and slip back into his old bad habits off the field with marijuana. I expect him to make strides in 2008, and if he can find help at the other DT spot, the sky’s the limit for this kid.

Alvin McKinley

Contract Status: Signed through 2010

If the presence of any one player on the field was an indicator that Jim Bates‘ system had all but been abandoned in Denver, it was Alvin McKinley. At under 300 lbs., McKinley didn’t feature the girth Bates was looking for. Yet McKinley earned the starting job shortly after Sam Adams was let go.

In 2007: McKinley registered 2.5 sacks throughout the course of the year, tallying 14 tackles and a forced fumble as well. He began the year as the third string DT and moved up the depth chart.

In 2008: He may or may not be on the team. I think he stays and gets a chance in the new system, but he’s not the type of guy who excels as a starter.

Josh Mallard

Contract Status: Signed through 2008

Josh Mallard is the rare diamond in the rough, a clear example of another’s trash being our treasure. The Broncos picked him up off the streets midseason and Mallard immediately made an impact. Playing both defensive tackle and defensive end, Mallard either showed his merit or showed how weak our defensive line was at the time. Or maybe a little of both.

In 2007: He played the last eight games for the Broncos, registering his 3.5 sacks in the last four games. In his first game as a Bronco, having just been picked up off the street, Mallard played extensively, and would continue to make his mark in the games to follow.

In 2008: Details for his contract were not disclosed, but I get the feeling it was a deal just to finish the season. He’s earned himself a new one, and will add valuable depth to both defensive end and defensive tackle next year for Denver.

Kenny Peterson

Contract Status: Signed through 2008

After serving a four-game suspension, Peterson was released by the Broncos in early October. He found himself back on the squad a short time later and played a limited role in the Broncos defensive end rotation. He also saw time at defensive tackle.

In 2007: His topsy-turvy year saw him in, suspended, out, then back in. He registered one sack along the way.

In 2008: His status is up in the air. I’m guessing he won’t be a Bronco next year.

Steven Harris

Contract Status: Unknown (believed signed through 2008)

Harris is an undrafted rookie free agent out of Florida who lined up opposite his former teammate Thomas for the final four games of the year.

In 2007: All things considered, Harris played well in those four games. He’s still raw and has a lot of developmental work before he can be considered a starter. He finished the year with five tackles and a fumble recovery.

In 2008: Will be fighting for a roster spot in training camp. If he doesn’t make the 53-man group he’d likely be stored back on the practice squad.

Others on the roster
Antwon Burton started the year on the roster – he now finds himself signed to a future contract with the club. He’ll need to perform better to stay signed. Also signed to a future contract is Michael Bozeman.

Looking at Lower Elevations

Who could help us out of Denver? Let’s take a look.

Albert Haynesworth, UFA, Tennessee Titans – Wake up, people. There’s no way the Titans let this guy hit the open market.

Corey Williams, UFA, Green Bay Packers – Williams is a disruptive force inside for the Packers’ defensive line. He will garner much attention across the league, and the Packers are deep enough at DT where they could afford to let him go. If we’re going to go after the defensive line in free agency, this is where I’d like to see us go.

Shaun Rogers, Trade, Detroit Lions – Rumors abound that Rogers is on the trade block, and he may even be released if there are no decent suitors. After completely dominating the line of scrimmage against the Broncos, Rogers (and the rest of the Lions defense) fell apart to end the year. Health and weight issues are major concerns as well.

The Draft – While Glenn Dorsey almost certainly won’t be available at the 12 slot, USC DT Serick Ellis might just be. There are plenty more names to discuss in the months ahead, as well. If the Broncos don’t address their defensive tackle situation in March expect them to hit it hard in April.

The Bottom Line

Signed Through 2008: At least 6
Offseason Priority: Very High

Quick congratulatory note to John Lynch for his ninth selection to the Pro Bowl. Lynch replaces injured Colt safety Bob Sanders.

Lynch will join Champ Bailey as the only Broncos in Honolulu.

It begs the question, though… a question one fellow fan blogger pointed out – does Lynch really belong in the Pro Bowl?

Statistically he certainly didn’t live up to even his own expectations. Largely due to injury, he faced a minimized role in the defense and was not as large of an impact player.

This is obviously a selection based solely off reputation.  I’d like to see him return to a larger role next year – and if he’s promised that, I think he’ll return for another year and earn his potential Pro Bowl.

Keith Rivers looked sharp in Tuesday’s Senior Bowl practice

Listening to Sirius NFL Radio on my way to school this morning and thought I’d pass along some of the more exciting news from Senior Bowl practices. Two USC seniors are dominating practices thus far, and both are in positions of need for the Broncos. It’s difficult to begin mock drafts at this early point (so much will change before April), but it’s possible that either of these guys will be available for the Broncos at slot #12.

The two players are DT Sedrick Ellis and OLB Keith Rivers (pictured right). Both came into Senior Bowl practices considered among the top 2 at their respective positions, and they’re defending that stock well today.

Sirius analysts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan discussed how Ellis completely dominated his opposing center during inside run drills, blowing his man up three or four yards into the backfield.  Rivers was also making plays, shedding the lead blocker in these drills to make the tackle.

The guys at Scout.com have broken down both of these players. Check out their bios below:

DT, Sedrick Ellis (Sr.)
Draft Projection: 1st Round
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 305

Ellis is an explosive interior defender who can rush the pass and defend the run. He doesn’t possess great size, but he plays with a high motor and great technique. He’s quick off the snap, has quick hands, and is able to fight off double teams and sneak through a seam. He’s built low to the ground, gets underneath the opposition and keeps his feet moving up the field to gain penetration. He has excellent closing speed and is able to track down ball carriers. Ellis is one of the premier defenders available in the 2008 draft. He had a great senior campaign and amassed 56 tackles (28 solo, 28 assisted), 12.5 for a loss, and 8.5 sacks. Ellis’ game will remind many of All Pro DT Warren Sapp.

OLB Keith Rivers (Sr.)
Draft Projection: 1st Round
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 235

Rivers is an active linebacker that flies around the ball always looking to make a positive play. He’s quick to the point of attack, shows great instincts and takes good angles in pursuit. He has sideline-to-sideline range and positions himself to make plays. He covers a large area and is disciplined in coverage. He’s an aggressive player that has great strength and is able to shed blocks against a bigger opposition. Rivers decided to stay at USC for his senior season, despite being a lock to be a first round pick last year. He played very well for the Trojans this season and collected 73 tackles, 4.5 for a loss, but he didn’t post any impact numbers (sacks and interceptions) you want to see out of a playmaking linebacker. Even though he didn’t have any sacks or interceptions, Rivers is still a top-25 selection.

For more on the Senior Bowl practices, check out Mason’s Morsels.