The Broncos are informing season- ticket holders that ticket prices are being increased. Tickets in the lower and middle bowls will go up $5 per ticket and upper-bowl seats will increase by $4 per seat.
It’s expected the average ticket price for games at Invesco Field at Mile High in 2006 will be $68. The Broncos’ average seat in 2005 was $67.31. That average was the 10th-highest among the NFL’s 32 teams.
Lepsis update
Although center Tom Nalen’s contract extension was finalized faster than expected, don’t expect a similar resolution with left tackle Matt Lepsis. Denver began preliminary talks with Lepsis more than a week ago, and they could last through February before a restructured extension is done.
The team remains confident a deal will be worked out, but it might take time. The same applies to another top free agent, defensive tackle Gerard Warren. Denver is also working on routine restructuring to help pare the salary cap. None of the simple restructuring is expected to include pay cuts.
Super Bowl begging
Broncos owner Pat Bowlen isn’t the only owner who asks NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue to consider his city for a future Super Bowl. Tagliabue hears from owners all the time.
While Tagliabue said he will consider rotating the game around the country, warm-weather climates will get prime consideration. Bowlen has said he doesn’t believe Denver will get a Super Bowl unless a roof is put on Invesco Field at Mile High, which he is reluctant to do.
Turkey Day game?
Don’t be surprised if the Broncos are in contention to host the new third Thanksgiving Day game, which will be aired on the NFL Network in the evening.
Denver could be a contender for several reasons. Coach Mike Shanahan said in November, before Denver beat Dallas, that he enjoys having his team play on the holiday, partly because it creates a long break before entering the crucial month of December. Denver beat Dallas in 2001 and 2005 on Thanksgiving Day, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if Denver volunteers to host the game.
Staff Writer Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com
