Having run out of words to describe the Broncos’ considerable issues, we take you to the archives for that infamous sound bite from former Colts coach Jim Mora.
“PLAY-offs? PLAY-offs?”
As in, no playoffs.
While the math says they’re still in the hunt, it would be just as well if the Broncos don’t make a postseason appearance. Why? Because it would give Mike Shanahan and his staff more time to fix things.
Which brings us to the big-picture question of the day: Can Shanahan fix all that’s wrong with this team in the span of one offseason?
Sure, it’s possible, but I’m thinking the answer is no. For proof, I take you to the Broncos’ last offseason.
Their biggest issues, other than Jay Cutler’s inexperience, were in their defensive front seven. So what were Shanahan’s signature moves in free agency? He signed a tight end (Daniel Graham) and a tailback (Travis Henry) for big bucks, then traded for a cornerback (Dre Bly) who also tapped into the Bowlen family fortune.
So why didn’t the Broncos address their defensive front seven? They did, but not enough to make a difference.
They signed Sam Adams, well past his prime, to be a run stuffer. And, you might recall, they tried to sign pass rusher Patrick Kerney, who chose to join the Seahawks. After Kerney, the pickings were slim for defensive-line help on the free-agent market.
But then, that’s the point. Given the importance of defensive-line play, that’s never going to change. Quality D-linemen, in the prime of their careers, without off-field baggage, are next to impossible to find. And playmaking linebackers who fit the same bill aren’t exactly waiting at Shanahan’s front door, either.
If you’re going to find impact front-seven help, the draft is the place to look. That makes the 2008 draft perhaps the most crucial of the Shanahan era. If the Broncos don’t get an impact lineman and linebacker, it’s difficult to envision their defense being much better next season than it has been this year.
It comes down to having players, and the Broncos don’t have enough. And frankly, even if Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder and Marcus Thomas emerge as quality starters next season, the Broncos would need more help.
When it comes to the defensive front seven, you can’t ever have too many players.
Follow Jim Armstrong’s daily Broncos commentaries on The Jimmy Page at 7 a.m. and noon, and read his columns on Sundays and the day after Broncos games at .
He can be reached at 303-954-1269 or jmarmstrong@denverpost.com.
