Detroit – While Mike Bell may be the most well-known early-August undrafted free agent in NFL history, other undrafted Broncos also are prepared to make an impact.
Bell, who stunned the NFL world this week by rising to the top of Denver’s depth chart at tailback, leads a strong rookie free-agent class of six. The others are receiver Brian Clark, linebacker Cameron Vaughn, defensive tackle Antwon Burton, safety Tyler Everett and fullback Rashon Powers-Neal. Unlike most teams, Denver traditionally signs a small undrafted class.
“We really like what we have this year,” Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist said. “It’s a strong group.”
Vaughn and Burton have worked with the second team, and Clark and Everett also have had strong camps.
All the undrafted free agents are expected to play significant time tonight in the preseason opener against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.
“We all feel that Denver is a place that will give you a fair shake whether you were drafted or not,” said Clark, a North Carolina State alumnus. “This is a franchise that will give anyone a shot to make the 53-man roster. The Broncos don’t care where you were drafted. They just want to find players.”
Jets looking at tailbacks?
Because of the uncertainty surrounding injury-plagued New York Jets running back Curtis Martin, several New York-area media outlets are speculating that the team will pursue a running back. Broncos running back Tatum Bell has been mentioned in some reports, but it is unlikely anything would develop soon.
Much of the speculation likely is fueled because Tatum Bell was bypassed by Mike Bell, who will start tonight at Detroit. Tatum Bell will remain the No. 2 tailback, and former No. 1 Ron Dayne has slipped to No. 3.
It’s unlikely the Broncos would move a veteran tailback before being confident in Mike Bell, based on preseason efforts. Denver coach Mike Shanahan said this week that regardless of Mike Bell’s startling rise, Tatum Bell is an important part of the team because of his game-breaking speed.
“Tatum is a guy you want on your team,” Shanahan said.
Tatum Bell’s agent, Jeff Griffin, said he and his client are not looking for a trade.
“Tatum is concentrating on doing his best for the Broncos,” Griffin said.
Special looks
Former Lions receiver David Kircus, a Michigan native, will get his first chance to make an impression on the Broncos tonight on special teams. Kircus, who has been impressive as a receiver, is expected to return kicks and punts.
Mike Bell may also get some returns. Top punt returner Darrent Williams will not play on special teams tonight, Shanahan said.
Security concerns
The international air travel security alert affected the Broncos’ travel Thursday. The team had an early, 20-minute walkthrough emphasizing special teams. Shanahan said the team met and adjusted plans after news broke Thursday morning about the terrorist arrests in England. “It’s scary,” Shanahan said. “But we have to react accordingly when things like this happen.”
Five goals
Broncos reporter Bill Williamson lists five things the team needs to accomplish in tonight’s preseason opener at Detroit:
1. Undrafted rookie Mike Bell to show he can handle being the No. 1 tailback.
2. Top draft choice Jay Cutler to shine as the No. 2 quarterback.
3. Rookie wide receiver Brandon Marshall to continue his push to be the No. 3 receiver.
4. The defensive front to show it can create a pass rush.
5. Paul Ernster to push Micah Knorr as a replacement for punter Todd Sauerbrun while Sauerbrun serves an NFL suspension the first four games of the regular season.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
