Fieldwork
Prep work for Lions
Denver worked on some plays for Friday’s preseason opener at Detroit, including some goal-line work. Coach Mike Shanahan said the team has watched film of the Lions and is preparing for what it has seen from Detroit personnel in recent
seasons.
As for the highlights, backup safety Curome Cox continued an outstanding training camp by being aggressive and knocking away a few balls. Undrafted rookie Tyler Everett continued to open eyes with an interception of starting quarterback
Jake Plummer.
Position battle
Watch the wideouts
The race for the backup wide receiver spots is worth watching. Whatever happens, it appears Denver will be deeper at the bottom of the depth chart at wideout than in 2005. Brandon Marshall, a rookie, is the likely pick to be the No. 3 receiver.
David Kircus and Brian Clark are pushing Darius Watts, David Terrell, Charlie Adams and Todd Devoe for the final spots. The Broncos likely will keep six wideouts. If Kircus and Clark have good camps, that means Watts, Adams, Devoe and Terrell will battle for a final spot.
Point after
Smith lends a hand
Rod Smith hasn’t practiced in a week and won’t play Friday night at Detroit, but the man still is working. During the morning practice, Smith instructed Darius Watts on running routes. Smith is tireless, and even when he’s not on the field,
he assists with the team.
Cutler watch
Rookie responding
Mike Shanahan said rookie Jay Cutler has flourished since being promoted to No. 2 quarterback, behind Jake Plummer. As the top backup, Cutler – the 11th pick of the April draft – has been working against the No. 1 defense. Shanahan said the work against the first string has brought out the best in the former Vanderbilt star.
Quote of the day
Big test for backups
“The first unit will be out there 10 (to) 12 plays. You get a chance to evaluate your second-, third- and fourth-teamers in a game situation against a team that – with a lot of new coaches – wants to play well.”
– Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, on playing time Friday at Detroit
Shanny barometer
Veteran coach vocal
Mike Shanahan has been vocal this week. The coach spent Wednesday morning encouraging several players. Early in practice, he instructed and worked with cornerback Karl Paymah. Later, Shanahan congratulated wideout Brandon
Marshall for his solid effort.
Camp facts
If you go …
Thursday’s schedule: Practice begins at 8:30 a.m. and will run approximately an hour. The team will leave for Detroit in the afternoon.
Admission: Practices at Broncos headquarters in Arapahoe County are open to the public during training camp. Admission is free.
Parking: Fans attending training camp can park on the west side of the Broncos’ practice fields on a first-come, first-served basis. Lots open one hour before each practice.
