Bradlee Van Pelt is a cheery, upbeat guy – until the subject turns to his performance. Then the young quarterback turns miserable.
“(Saturday night) was the same. I’m not going to be happy with what I did,” the second- year pro and former Colorado State star said after his biggest NFL moment.
Van Pelt’s coaches were pleased with his preseason work as the Broncos’ No. 2 quarterback in the 20-14 victory over the Texans in Houston. Van Pelt, a seventh-round pick in 2004, completed 10-of-17 passes for 107 yards. He also gained 45 yards on three carries, including a 40-yard dash on his third play.
Field goals ended two of Van Pelt’s five possessions.
“I still missed too many easy plays,” Van Pelt said. “That’s what I’m going to be focusing on all week. The easy ones killed me.”
It appears Van Pelt will get the chance this week in practice and Saturday night against San Francisco at Invesco Field at Mile High. Coach Mike Shanahan strongly hinted Van Pelt would remain Jake Plummer’s backup.
Hearing Shanahan’s assessment didn’t allow Van Pelt to lighten up on himself.
“If I go down to No. 3, I do,” Van Pelt said. “If I stay at No. 2, I’m still going to work hard and try to get better.
“One thing is for sure: If I’m good or if I’m bad, as long as they give me shoes in my locker, I’m going to lace up and try to be better than the last time.”
