A pebble in one-on-one matchups became an avalanche of problems in team drills. Left tackle Ty Sambrailo experienced the type of day that underlines his lack of experience and the talent he’s facing in practice.
Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware took turns running around and through the former Colorado State star. The defenders can’t sack the quarterback, which meant Peyton Manning finished upright. Nonetheless, it created concern with the five-time MVP scheduled to play a “quarter-and-a-half to a half,” according to coach Gary Kubiak, against the Houston Texans and reigning NFL defensive player of the year J.J. Watt.
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Sambrailo struggled initially with his hand placement in individual drills. It carried over in 11-on-11. The defense benefited from being less predictable as the offense was not told in advance of its game plan Tuesday. The results were staggering for Sambrailo, who at one point ended up flat on his back after absorbing a shove from Ware.
“You saw today it was a challenge. Ty had some rough snaps. I know it’s a tough thing, but he has to continue to push through it,” Kubiak said. “I think you look at the big picture. I want Ty to be a Pro Bowler and a sixth-year player today. But I also understand the process he’s going through.”
Not special feeling
Special teams coach Joe DeCamillis watched the film of last Friday’s kickoff coverage breakdowns 20 times and “felt as pitiful on the last time as on the first.” The Broncos are working on using directional kicks with at least a four-second hang time to pin returners. This represents a complete change from last season when the kickers were told to strive only for touchbacks.
“We want to put it in what we call manageable space. You look at those big plays, both on punts and kickoffs, a lot of them were in the middle of the field with not much hang time,” DeCamillis said.
Familiar face
Manning saw a familiar face on the sidelines. Good friend Todd Helton, in his second year of retirement, stopped by with his daughter Tierney. Helton believes Manning will enjoy a big year given his strong offseason.
“Without a doubt,” Helton said. “I know how much work he put in.”
Footnotes
Cornerback Chris Harris and receiver Emmanuel Sanders continue to ease back in from hamstring injuries. Harris practiced in individual drills and remains close to 100 percent, but said, “I just don’t wont to risk creating a nagging injury.” Sanders stretched on the sidelines with trainers. Defensive tackle Kenny Anunike sat out with a sore knee, but said he expects to practice Wednesday. … The Broncos put in claim on punter Spencer Lanning when the Browns released him in the spring and did same last week so he’s been on their radar for months … Cornerback Aqib Talib picked off his fourth pass of camp and David Bruton followed with a leaping interception in the end zone. … Omar Bolden continues to improve and hopes to be ready to return punts and kicks on Saturday.
