One of two projected new starters on the Broncos’ defense is middle linebacker Todd Davis, who is expected to line up next to Brandon Marshall.
He has to fend off competition from Corey Nelson, Zaire Anderson and Dekoda Watson to officially be named a starter, but he has already received endorsements from Marshall, defensive coordinator Wade Phillips and his defensive teammates.
Still, he’s not relaxing. Davis feels like he has to prove to his coaches every day that he can be the guy they trust to start and play effectively for 16 games.
“We’ve talked a lot in the past about my path and his path and what needs to be done,” Marshall said. “Todd is hungry. If I had to describe him in one word, it’s hunger. Todd’s going to be a great player, I promise you.”
Longshot is still a shot. Itap going to be tough for to make this roster, but he continues to impress. He has been one of the first players on the field in every practice so far, and Saturday he caught a 39-yard fade route from Paxton Lynch for a touchdown.
Coach Gary Kubiak has praised Raymond throughout camp for his performance and work ethic. He’s competing with Jordan Norwood and Bralon Addison for a returner’s role and more players in a crowded receivers room.
“You see a fearless returner,” Kubiak said of Raymond, who the Broncos signed as an undrafted free agent after the NFL draft. “That’s why we went and got him. … He’s small, but he runs good routes. He is a speed kid and does everything hard. We’ll see.”
Heart of the offense. Kicker Brandon McManus had an unusually shaky performance Saturday. He missed three field goals in a row and even had one blocked.
McManus’ job is secure with no other kicker in camp, but he can’t put together too many days like Saturday. He did nail a 67-yarder Friday.
Footnotes. Denver’s all-time leading receiver, Rod Smith, was at practice Saturday. He has been a regular at Dove Valley, lending his advice to many of the Broncos’ receivers. … Linebacker Brandon Marshall was thrilled to talk about his 90 rating on EA Sports’ Madden NFL 17, second among inside linebackers to the Panthers’ Luke Kuechly (99 rating).
