While saying he has “great respect” for former wide receiver , Broncos coach said Wednesday he was “disappointed” about Thomas’ comments earlier this week about how his nine-year stay in Denver came to an end.
Thomas was traded to the on Oct. 30 and debuted Sunday in a 19-17 win over the Broncos.
Thomas gave an expansive interview Monday night on Orange & Blue 760, a Broncos broadcast partner.
Thomas asserted Joseph misled him about his future once the trade chatter surfaced Oct. 21.
“I’m disappointed to read those things about how he recalls the conversations going,” Joseph said. “It was obviously a week and a half where the rumors and gossip were flowing and we talked about the rumors and gossip and (how) until something happened, we had to all focus on doing our jobs and winning football games.
“I’m disappointed in how he remembers it.”
Thomas also gave the impression he was upset about not being named a captain. Thomas said teammates asked him: “How (are) you not a captain? We picked you.” The offensive captains are quarterback and now-injured center .
“Our players vote for the captains,” Joseph said. “They vote for the guys who they see fit to lead the football team.”
Joseph also disagreed with Thomas’ assertion that the players were not consulted about the weekly game plan.
“Our players have the right and openness to share what they want in the game plan,” Joseph said. “Thatap never changed. We have veteran players who have played at a high level. Guys request certain calls. For the most part, we make it work.”
Joseph added: “We have to move on. (Thomas) has to move on. He’s no longer a Bronco. I can’t spend time worrying about (Thomas’ comments).”
Footnotes. The Broncos went through a light practice (no pads) in their indoor facility Wednesday before getting the next four days off. … Joseph said Paradis had surgery to repair torn ankle ligaments. He remains on the 53-man roster but is headed to injured reserve to open a roster spot. … Joseph expects running back (ankle) and safety (neck) to return Nov. 18 at the Los Angeles Chargers after missing two consecutive games. He said “hopefully” on cornerback (ankle) being available and that receiver (knee) should be able to practice Monday. … Joseph, on linebacker (knee): “Getting better and better. He just needs time. These next two weeks should do him some good.”
Like this story? Help support more local journalism.
.
