Following an edict by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, the Broncos and every other team no longer will serve alcohol at team functions, including on team buses and flights.
Previously, the alcohol ban applied only in locker rooms. In a letter to all 32 teams, Goodell said his order applies to everyone connected with a franchise, including players, coaches, executives and owners.
“To be honest with you, there are a lot of rules that are made that are not made for 95 percent of the players (who do not abuse the privileges),” Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said today at the team’s mini-camp. “But we’re going to abide by it. The NFL leads by example. We’re going to act accordingly.”
The edict comes after the death of St. Louis Cardinals relief pitcher Josh Hancock, who was killed in an alcohol-related auto accident last month.
“The safety of the players is most important,” said Broncos cornerback Domonique Foxworth, who supports the more widespread ban. “But all the leagues would rather those type of activities take place outside of work. Plane travel and all that stuff is considered the workplace.”
No busts yet
Shanahan said no player has eliminated himself during mini-camp workouts.
“That’s positive,” the coach said. “A lot of times guys will come in, and you (already) see they don’t belong. You can see that very quickly.”
The Team Camp concludes next week, with sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Staff writer Tom Kensler can be reached at 303-954-1280 or tkensler@denverpost.com.
