Woody Paige: Manning getting in tune to be conductor, not composer

By Woody Paige The Denver Post

April 22, 2012

Peyton Williams Manning directing an offense in the final quarter is analogous to Arturo Toscanini conducting during the closing notes of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony.

Peculiar gestures, attention to detail, awareness, command, presence, resonance, three G's, hut, hut, hut, the long E-flat, the long pass, performance, perfection in movement.

Two maestros.

"To me, it is allegro con brio," the late Toscanini said.

In a quick and lively tempo with spirit.

"It's all about setting the tempo and dictating to the defense," Manning explained to me Friday.

Peyton has brought his legendary leadership and orchestration to Denver.

Yet, recent headlines — "Broncos switch to Manning's hurry-up, no-huddle offense"

— are not totally accurate.

"We haven't gotten to that point," Manning said before he departed for a fundraising weekend in Knoxville, Tenn. "What we are going to do (offensively) here depends on what (coordinator) Mike McCoy decides, based on the players we

have, and I'm open to whatever direction that takes."

The Broncos' embryonic new offense is under construction — unlike when Mike Shanahan departed with his "Atlas Shrugged"-sized playbook.

Anyway, the term "hurry-up offense" is a misnomer. "I'd agree," Manning said. The

Colts' offense, which he ran so proficiently for 13 seasons, was more of a "hurry-up-and-wait offense. Snapping the ball in a hurry isn't truly what we did all the

time. We had different tempos."

The threat was that the Colts could, from a huddle close to the line of scrimmage, start the play immediately, preventing defenses from constantly changing

personnel and forcing them to try quickly to decipher what Manning might do. Generally, though, Manning would change the play (audiblize) at the line of

scrimmage, shout out a fake play, move his receivers, recognize where the blitz would come from and await his linemen's blocking assignments' call. The actual

play preparation could take up most of the 40-second clock.

For example, in the last game Manning played in Denver in 2010 against the Broncos, his last two touchdown drives of 79 and 88 yards averaged 27.9 and 27.7

seconds between plays.

Manning said he will work "super fast," slow, under center and "from the gun," but, he promised, and laughed, "I won't line up at wide receiver" and, he won't be

operating the run-option offense that the Broncos adopted after Tim Tebow took over at quarterback. "Now, that would be surprising to defenses if I ran the football," Manning said.

He has been sequestered in a darkened room at Dove Valley, with pad and pen,

studying "cutouts" (specific plays, not full game tapes) used by McCoy and coach John Fox when they were together in Carolina, "tapes of what the Packers and the

Saints have done well recently," the rushing plays designed for Willis McGahee last year, pass plays the Broncos had before Tebow and, of course, a variety of Manning plays with the Colts.

The Broncos' playbook will be an amalgamation, he said, of all those plays and "things that (tight end Joel) Dreessen and (wide receiver Andre) Caldwell and the other guys" did in the past.

"It's a process that we'll continue to put in" in minicamps and training camp "as we

get to know each other."

Manning said NFL observers "always say I spend so much time looking at films of defenses, but I spend most of the time looking at what my offense does. It's the

best way for me to learn what I'm doing wrong and how to get better. I love looking at film. I love to practice. I love repetitions."

The terminology has changed drastically for Manning. "You're in a comfort zone and

have a sense of security when you're in the same system with the same coach (Indianapolis' Tom Moore) for 14 years, but I'm thrilled with the challenge of learning a new terminology."

Here's Manning from the Colts' huddle: "Deuce right 255 X block short H disco Alex

12 trap. ... No, no, no, Alert 12 belly." And at the line he would yell out "Disco yo-yo" and "Chocolate, Boo on Raiders."

The Fox-McCoy emphasis, historically, on the run "excites" Manning. "People think

I'm all about the pass, but if I throw five passes in a game, it means we're running the football well. You play to your strength."

The Broncos do have a strength — of schedule, which includes seven playoff opponents and five night games. Manning has been the league's most productive

prime-time quarterback. The schedule doesn't bother him. "Every game in the NFL these days is difficult."

He's energized for the opener against the Steelers. "I'm glad we're opening at

home against a great team. It gives us a real focal point getting ready for the season."

The past week was eventful for Manning in several ways. He could report to Dove

Valley for sessions with a full complement of offensive players.

For the first time since his signing with the Broncos, "at the end of my day (Thursday), I went up to (John Elway's) office, and we talked football and shot the bull. I'll get a lot of good advice from him."

Also, for the first time, just he and Fox shared dinner one evening. "We told stories about when he was coaching with the Giants and the Panthers, and we played each other. Having a great relationship between the quarterback and the head coach is

important and special to me."

Manning has found a house for his family, is meeting local folks ("Everybody's been so nice"), has eaten at Shanahan's restaurant and is anticipating his first Rockies

game of the year — "I've never lived in a major-league baseball city" — and reuniting with his quarterback predecessor at Tennessee — Todd Helton.

And he's adjusting to altitude. "First couple of times I worked out I could feel the

difference, and I thought it was that whirlwind tour I've been on. I remember that when we (the Colts) came here, the altitude was on everybody's mind, and we were worried about dehydration. Tough place to play. ... I hope it can work to our

advantage this year. I'll know when the season is over."

After the University of Tennessee's final victory in 1997, Peyton Manning grabbed a baton, climbed a ladder and led the school band in playing "Rocky Top."

Fifteen years later, in his new Rocky Mountains home, Manning will conduct the

Broncos and their legions in "A Symphony In Orange."

Kickin' it: Broncos are much better off with Manning under center

Readers talk and sports columnist Mark Kiszla responds.

By Mark Kiszla The Denver Post

April 22, 2012

Money well spent? The only thing I have to say is Peyton Manning was in Indianapolis for 14 NFL seasons. He had a lot of 12-win seasons, which were nice.

But Manning made it to the Super Bowl only two times during the 13 seasons he was healthy. Manning won one championship. He has had four surgeries on his neck. He is 36 years old. And the Broncos offered him $96 million to replace Tim

Tebow? Talk about a huge gamble. If I were a Denver fan, the expectation would be: Manning better get to the Super Bowl at least three times and win two of them.

Otherwise, lots of money was blown on a quarterback with a lot of media hype. Maybe Manning will surprise me and win a championship in Denver. I would say there is less than a 15 percent chance.

Brad, Indianapolis

Kiz: Wow, so that was you backing up the moving van to the Manning household in

Indiana? It's true Manning has played in only two Super Bowls during his long NFL career. But look at this way: The last time the Broncos won a championship,

Manning was a rookie. John Elway wants to get his mitts on the Lombardi Trophy again while franchise owner Pat Bowlen is young enough to enjoy it. Wouldn't you

also say the Broncos are more serious title contenders now than three months ago?

Wait on running back. You say it is nuts for Denver to draft a running back in the first round. But doesn't the Broncos' pick depend on how the defensive tackles grade out? If there is an impact defensive tackle at No. 25, you take him. But if

there are a dozen tackles who grade out equally and a running back who is an impact player, isn't the running back a better pick?

Dan, St. Louis

Kiz: There will be a temptation to give Manning another toy and select a running

back. If the Broncos want a running back such as Doug Martin of Boise State, however, the smart move would be to trade back from No. 25. I acknowledge that

defensive tackle is a difficult position to dominate as a rookie, even if LSU's Michael Brockers falls to the Broncos in the first round. So here's my advice: Pick a defensive player who can make noise early in his career, whether it is Nebraska

outside linebacker Lavonte David or Alabama cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, should he slide down the board to Denver. Running back? Patience, please. Robert Turbin of

Utah State can be a steal with a midround selection.

Rams need new digs. I have enjoyed (and hated) your column since moving to Colorado in 2000. You are one of the most honest and straightforward sports

journalists in the region. Colorado State is at the crossroads of a new stadium debate. There is a disagreement among generations. The older generation is

content with Hughes Stadium. The younger group of alums would love to see CSU excel, but many fear academics will decline if athletics do not get a good kick in the pants. A football Saturday is about showcasing the school and its campus. This is a

tradition that Colorado State is lacking.

Kevin, Longmont

Kiz: A university can be vibrant without being a football factory. But if Colorado State does not build a stadium on campus, the Rams have almost zero chance of

remaining relevant in a sport that becomes a bigger business every year. As I've recently told CSU athletic director Jack Graham: The best way to honor the legacy

of coach Sonny Lubick would be to bulldoze the field named in his honor. It's a new stadium or bust for the Rams.

Show Nuggets some love. Come on, you need to have a little faith in our Nuggets. I could see a playoff series with Oklahoma City going to six games. But I

think we at least have a shot at beating San Antonio in the first round. While it would be awesome to land Duke guard Austin Rivers or swingman Jeremy Lamb of

Connecticut with a draft choice, I really think Denver has the talent to make a deep playoff run.

Evan, livin' large in the 650

Kiz:OK, the simple minds here at Kickin' It Headquarters are stumped by two

questions: 1) Did the experience of getting their tails kicked by Oklahoma City in last year's playoffs make the young Nuggets a significantly better team this season? 2) If forward Carmelo Anthony was often criticized for his failure to

advance past the opening round while in Denver, why doesn't coach George Karl face the same scrutiny?

Klis: Broncos must be wary of drafting defensive tackle in first round

By Mike Klis

The Denver Post April 22, 2012

I am in no position to tell the Broncos who they should select with their first-round pick in the NFL draft Thursday night.

Instead, I will consult with history. History is more pragmatic, reasoned and less emotional, and speaks in nothing but the facts.

Here's what history says the Broncos should do with their first-round pick, the No. 25 slot: Take a DEFENSIVE TACKLE already! In the past five seasons, the Broncos'

run defense has ranked 22nd (in 2011), 31st, 26th, 27th and 30th.

A defensive tackle would be an investment in the Broncos' No. 1 investment. To wit: Peyton Manning can't put up points if he's standing on the sideline watching

the opposing team steamroll minutes off the clock.

Me? There are situations when history can be ignored. If I'm the Broncos, I take one of two defensive tackles at No. 25 overall: LSU's Michael Brockers or Memphis'

Dontari Poe. Maybe I could be talked into taking Mississippi State's Fletcher Cox. I can't be talked into taking Michigan State's Jerel Worthy at No. 25. If Brockers, Poe and Cox are off the board by No. 25, the Broncos should draft one of two

cornerbacks — Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick or South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore — or go with Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

I know Tannehill could go as high as No. 4 to Cleveland, No. 8 to Miami or No. 12 to

Seattle. But we saw quarterback Aaron Rodgers fall to No. 24 in 2005 and Brady Quinn slip to No. 22 in 2007.

The point is, if Brockers, Poe and Cox are gone by No. 25, the Broncos could get a

good defensive tackle such as Boise State's Billy Winn at No. 57 in the second round.

Me and history agree that the Broncos should get a defensive tackle within the first two rounds.

History is more thorough in its research. It shows that the defensive tackle position has been to the Broncos what marriage proposals are to mid-20 bachelors: not a good fit.

The Broncos haven't drafted a defensive tackle in any round since 2008, when they

selected Carlton Powell in the fifth. Powell ruptured his Achilles tendon two weeks before his rookie training camp and never played a down for the Broncos.

It's been 24 years since the Broncos drafted a defensive tackle in the first round,

and Ted Gregory didn't make it out of training camp either.

It's been 34 years since the Broncos selected a first-round defensive tackle that actually played for them. At least Don Latimer played, but not much. He made

seven starts in his six seasons with the Broncos that started with his No. 27 overall selection in the 1978 draft.

That was seven starts more than the infamously undersized Gregory made. He was traded during his rookie training camp of 1988.

Trevor Pryce, as the Broncos' media guide reports, was a first-round defensive lineman tweener. Pryce was a defensive end at Clemson, was listed as a defensive

end entering the 1997 draft and was a defensive end in his final four seasons with the Broncos from 2002-05.

So officially, undisputedly, in the 45-year history of the modern NFL draft, the

Broncos have taken only two defensive tackles in the first round: Gregory and Latimer.

The Broncos are going to sit on that? Come draft time, the Broncos have treated

defensive tackles as if they are plagued with contagious diseases. In the 34 years since they took Latimer, the Broncos have drafted only 14 defensive tackles. The names in descending order: Powell, Marcus Thomas, Nicholas Eason, Dorsett Davis,

Monsanto Pope, Jerry Johnson, Mark Campbell, Anthony Butts, Gregory, Johnny Carter, Tony Colorito, Dallas Cameron, Scott Garnett and, in 1980, Laval Short.

My ears must have been plugged earlier in this column. I think what history really

told the Broncos was: Take a receiver, take an interior offensive lineman, take a water boy, take a secretary. Just DON'T TAKE A DEFENSIVE TACKLE!

Draft preview: Defensive backs

By Jeff Legwold The Denver Post

April 22, 2012 The Denver Post's Jeff Legwold offers his list of the top defensive backs available in

the NFL draft Thursday through Saturday.

1. Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU, 5-foot-11, 188 pounds. Recent wrist surgery won't affect his status as the best cover corner on the board.

2. Mark Barron, S, Alabama, 6-1, 213. Didn't work out at the NFL scouting

combine in Indianapolis and didn't play at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., because of hernia surgery. Savvy playmaker with a lot of speed.

3. Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina, 6-0, 190. Ran the 40-yard dash in the

4.4s at his predraft workouts. Playing in the Southeastern Conference, he battled some of the best receivers in the nation.

4. Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama, 6-1, 186. An arrest this year has made some NFL teams nervous about him, but he's a fundamentally sound tackler in pass

coverage and run support.

5. Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama, 5-10, 193. He's had to spend a lot of time trying to convince teams that he's not a risky pick despite trouble with the law

in his background. Where he gets drafted this week will show how convincing he has been.

OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON

Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida; Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia; Jayron Hosley,

CB, Virginia Tech; Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana; Leonard Johnson, CB, Iowa State; Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma.

BIGGEST QUESTION MARK

Janoris Jenkins. A top-tier player who has off-the-field baggage. Jenkins played

well at the Senior Bowl and has had to explain to NFL teams why he was dismissed at Florida (multiple arrests for marijuana possession). He says he has become a better person since leaving the Gators.

SLEEPER

Chris Greenwood, CB, Albion. Greenwood, a Division III player, is trying to make a huge jump to the NFL. But he has the size (6-1, 193 pounds), speed (4.41 in the 40) and athleticism (43-inch vertical jump) to make that happen. Even if he's not

drafted, which would be a sur- prise, he will be in some team's training camp this summer.

AREA TALENT

Colorado safety Travis Sandersfeld finds out this week if he did enough at his pro-day workout in Boulder last month to get himself into an NFL training camp. The former walk-on from Limon missed parts of two seasons because of leg

injuries, but he weighed 209 pounds when he ran the 40 in 4.54 seconds, had a 37-inch vertical jump and bench-pressed 225 pounds 20 times. Those numbers would

have placed him among the best safeties at the scouting combine. He's versatile too, having also played cornerback for the Buffaloes.

BRONCOS' NEEDS

Quarterbacks feasted on Denver's nickel and dime packages late last season.

Remember those six touchdown passes by the Patriots' Tom Brady in the playoffs? So look for the Broncos to draft at least one cornerback this week, perhaps as high as the first round. They got a jump-start on improving their secondary by signing

Tracy Porter as a free agent.

NFL Draft Top 100: Luck, Griffin at head of the class

By Jeff Legwold The Denver Post

April 22, 2012

Just once in the history of the NFL's common draft — since 1967 — have quarterbacks gone 1-2-3, when Tim Couch, Donovan McNabb and Akili Smith were the first three players selected in the 1999 draft. With Stanford's Andrew Luck and

Baylor's Robert Griffin III slotted 1-2 for Thursday's first round, Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill is the wild card. He could induce the day's first trade if a team that wants

him believes it has to get the Vikings' pick at No. 3 to do it. With Luck and Griffin at the top of the board, Denver Post draft insider Jeff Legwold sifted through video, interviewed general managers, coaches and scouts, and attended the Senior Bowl

and the scouting combine to put together the top 100 players of this year's draft, regardless of position. Players are ranked not only on the basis of their college

production but on their pro potential.

1. Andrew Luck QB, Stanford,6-foot-4, 234 pounds

Had at least 70 percent completion rate in two of his three seasons as a starter, and called his own plays much of the time — that's as NFL-ready as it gets. 2. Robert Griffin III

QB, Baylor, 6-3, 223 Quality arm strength, 4.41 speed in the 40-yard dash.

3. Trent Richardson RB, Alabama, 5-9, 228 He has speed, power and good vision in traffic.

4. Matt Kalil OT, USC, 6-6, 306

Some teams see him as the most complete left tackle on the board. 5. Melvin Ingram DE/OLB, South Carolina, 6-1, 264

He is a just-play-him-somewhere guy with his elite athleticism. 6. Morris Claiborne

CB, LSU, 5-11, 188 The Tiger is the top cornerback on the board. 7. Fletcher Cox

DT, Mississippi State, 6-4, 298 A disruptive, get-behind-the-line-of-scrimmage

8. Ryan Tannehill QB, Texas A&M, 6-4, 221 Player who will cause the most movement on the draft's first day.

9. Michael Brockers DT, LSU, 6-6, 322

A giant in the middle of a defensive line who overwhelms offenses.

10. Luke Kuechly LB, Boston College, 6-2, 242

The best inside linebacker available. 11. David DeCastro

G, Stanford, 6-5, 316 Immediately ready for a starting lineup. 12. Justin Blackmon

WR, Oklahoma State, 6-1, 207 Had back-to-back seasons with at least 111 receptions.

13. Mark Barron S, Alabama, 6-1, 213 Wowed scouts at his pro day.

14. Courtney Upshaw OLB/DE, Alabama, 6-1, 272

Isn't as explosive as some others on the board, or as strong. 15. Michael Floyd WR, Notre Dame, 6-3, 220

If not for some off-the-field woes — multiple alcohol arrests — he might be the top receiver in draft.

16. Stephon Gilmore CB, South Carolina, 6-0, 190

A clean slate off the field, 4.4 speed make him the draft's No. 2 corner. 17. Riley Reiff OT, Iowa, 6-6, 313

He started his career with the Hawkeyes as a defensive end. 18. Cordy Glenn

OT/G/C, Georgia, 6-6, 345 Started 50 games with the Bulldogs — at left guard, right guard and left tackle. 19. Jerel Worthy

DT, Michigan State, 6-2, 308 Was the school's first first-team All-American at defensive tackle since 1971.

20. Coby Fleener TE, Stanford, 6-6, 247 A tight end who can get down the field in the passing game is like gold.

21. Stephen Hill WR, Georgia Tech, 6-4, 215

Hidden in the Yellow Jackets' option offense, he finished his career with only 48 receptions. 22. Dre Kirkpatrick

CB, Alabama, 6-1, 186 His arrest on marijuana charges after the season still troubles teams, as does the

fact he had no interceptions in 2011. 23. Dont'a Hightower LB, Alabama, 6-2, 265

Another Nick Saban-coached defender who plays better than his workouts. 24. Kendall Reyes

DT, Connecticut, 6-4, 299

Pushed around some of the nation's best offensive linemen at the Senior Bowl workouts.

25. Kendall Wright WR, Baylor, 5-11, 196

Finished with a school-record 4,004 receiving yards. 26. Doug Martin RB, Boise State, 5-9, 223

A no-frills, get-it-done back who will contribute immediately. 27. Janoris Jenkins

CB, North Alabama, 5-10, 193 Could fall into the second round because of concerns over his arrests for marijuana possession.

28. Mike Adams OT, Ohio State, 6-7, 323

Some concerns over his NCAA suspension to open the 2011 season. 29. Jonathan Martin OT, Stanford, 6-5, 312

With David DeCastro in the Cardinal line as well, the team surrendered only nine sacks last season.

30. Nick Perry DE, USC, 6-3, 271

Led the Pac-12 in sacks this past season (9.5) to go with 13 tackles for loss. 31. Quinton Coples DE, North Carolina, 6-6, 284

Carries a huge label of being an underachiever despite being a first-team all-ACC selection.

32. Dontari Poe DT, Memphis, 6-4, 346 The Steelers met with him on the last day teams were allowed to have prospects in

their facilities. 33. Shea McClellin

OLB/DE, Boise State, 6-3, 260 Played outside linebacker, defensive end, inside linebacker and in the team's nickel package.

34. Kevin Zeitler G, Wisconsin, 6-4, 314

Powerful player who flourished in the Badgers' pound-it-out offense. 35. Brandon Weeden QB, Oklahoma State, 6-4, 221

His experience in minor-league baseball means he understands the business of sports.

36. Chandler Jones DE, Syracuse, 6-5, 266 Finished his career with only 10 sacks in 33 games.

37. Rueben Randle WR, LSU, 6-3, 210

Didn't run as well as some of the other receivers — 4.5s at the combine. 38. Josh Robinson

CB, Central Florida, 5-9, 199 One of the fastest players on the board (a 4.33 40).

39. David Wilson RB, Virginia Tech, 5-10, 206

Has explosiveness and speed. 40. Whitney Mercilus DE, Illinois, 6-3, 261

Led the nation with 16 sacks. 41. Devon Still

DT, Penn State, 6-4, 303 Battling questions over his effort. 42. Alshon Jeffery

WR, South Carolina, 6-3, 216 Came out as a junior; left as the school's all-time leader in receiving yards (3,042).

43. Amini Silatolu G, Midwestern State, 6-3, 311 Got derailed by some academic issues in 2009.

44. Peter Konz C, Wisconsin, 6-5, 314

Could move to guard to start his career if asked to. 45. Vinny Curry

DE, Marshall, 6-3, 266 Lackluster at the combine (a 4.94 showing in the 40) then much better at his pro day (a 4.65 clocking).

46. Andre Branch DE, Clemson, 6-4, 259

A raw prospect as an edge rusher with 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss last season. 47. Lamar Miller

RB, Miami, 5-11, 212 He's long on potential and short on experience.

48. Harrison Smith S, Notre Dame, 6-1, 213 Had a three-interception game in 2010.

49. Brock Osweiler QB, Arizona State, 6-7, 242

A limited résumé with only 15 career starts. 50. Mychal Kendricks LB, California, 5-11, 240

A phenomenal athlete (4.47 40-yard dash at the combine). 51. Brandon Boykin

CB, Georgia, 5-9, 182 Played cornerback and safety, returned kickoffs and played on offense at times. 52. Dwayne Allen

TE, Clemson, 6-3, 255 Is likely the best blocking tight end in a weak class.

53. Kirk Cousins QB, Michigan State, 6-3, 214

Undersized, but he's got plenty of moxie. 54. Brandon Thompson

DT/NT, Clemson, 6-2, 314 Plays with power right off the snap.

55. Mohamed Sanu WR, Rutgers, 6-2, 211 Despite coming out as a junior, he's slightly older than most prospects.

56. Billy Winn DE, Boise State, 6-3, 294

Showed much better in his pro-day workout than he did at the Senior Bowl and the combine. 57. Jayron Hosley

CB, Virginia Tech, 5-10, 178 Led the nation in interceptions as a sophomore with 10.

58. Bobby Massie OT, Mississippi, 6-6, 316 Started the last 29 games at right tackle, which is where he projects in the NFL.

59. Keenan Robinson LB, Texas, 6-3, 242

Could be the first draft in over a decade the Longhorns haven't had a player selected in the first three rounds.

60. Zach Brown LB, North Carolina, 6-1, 244 Ran the 60-meter dash for the school's indoor track team early in his career.

61. LaMichael James RB, Oregon, 5-8, 194

Could go earlier to a team looking for some third-down pop. 62. Lavonte David LB, Nebraska, 6-0, 233

High-effort player with enough speed to cover down the field. 63. A.J. Jenkins

WR, Illinois, 6-0, 190 Big Ten's leading receiver with 90 receptions for 1,276 yards. 64. Bobby Wagner

LB, Utah State, 6-0, 241 A four-year starter and two-time team captain.

65. Kelechi Osemele G/OT, Iowa State, 6-6, 333 Big reach, big hands and buries people in the run game.

66. Ronnell Lewis LB, Oklahoma, 6-2, 253

Played all of the linebacker spots and in the defensive front. 67. Russell Wilson QB, Wisconsin, 5-11, 204

Overflowing with good play speed and intangibles. 68. Bruce Irvin

OLB/DE, West Virginia, 6-2, 245 Considered a quality pass-rush candidate for several 3-4 teams.

69. Trumaine Johnson CB, Montana, 6-2, 204

One of the biggest cornerbacks on the board. 70. Chris Givens

WR, Wake Forest, 5-11, 198 Finished with 1,330 yards receiving this past season and has returned kickoffs. 71. Jared Crick

DE, Nebraska, 6-4, 279 Missed part of 2011 season with torn pectoral muscle.

72. Leonard Johnson CB, Iowa State, 5-10, 196 Has consistently covered guys who have timed faster than he has in predraft

workouts. 73. Jamell Fleming

CB, Oklahoma, 5-11, 206 Considered primarily a man-to-man corner. 74. Orson Charles

TE, Georgia, 6-2, 251 No player may have had worse timing for an off-the-field issue than Charles with

his DUI arrest last month. 75. Chris Polk

RB, Washington, 5-11, 215 A patient runner who knows how to set up his blockers. 76. Brandon Brooks

G, Miami (Ohio), 6-5, 346 Ran a startling 4.99 40 at his pro day.

77. Jeff Allen OT, Illinois, 6-4, 307 A four-year starter at left tackle.

78. Zebrie Sanders OT, Florida State, 6-5, 320

Played at both the left and right tackle spots. 79. Ron Brooks CB, LSU, 5-10, 190

Few players rise faster when the picks finally start coming than big cornerbacks with top-end speed.

80. Alameda Ta'amu DT, Washington, 6-2, 348 Big guy with quick feet who moves smoothly and with power.

81. Donald Stephenson OT, Oklahoma, 6-5, 312

Workouts compared favorably to the top offensive tackles available. 82. Chase Minnifield CB, Virginia, 5-10, 183

Had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in January, so he didn't run at the combine.

83. Mitchell Schwartz OT, California, 6-5, 318

Started full seasons at both left and right tackles. 84. Bernard Pierce

RB, Temple, 6-0, 218 Came out as a junior after rushing for a school-record 27 touchdowns.

85. Ladarius Green TE, Louisiana-Lafayette, 6-6, 238 Finished career with 141 receptions to go with 22 touchdowns.

86. Mike Martin DT, Michigan, 6-1, 306

One of the shortest defensive linemen on the board, but plays big. 87. Sean Spence LB, Miami, 5-11, 231

Finished with 317 career tackles. 88. Alfonzo Dennard

CB, Nebraska, 5-10, 204 One of the more physical defensive backs on the board. 89. Juron Criner

WR, Arizona, 6-2, 224 Had an injury-marred season in '11 (appendectomy, hand and knee).

90. Brandon Taylor S, LSU, 5-11, 209

Athletic player who has run well in workouts. 91. Tyrone Crawford DE, Boise State, 6-4, 275

Led his team in sacks (six) and tackles for loss (13.5). 92. Joe Adams

WR, Arkansas, 5-11, 179 Struggles to get off bump coverage, but can make plays. 93. James Brown

G, Troy, 6-3, 306 Three-year starter at left tackle.

94. Casey Hayward CB, Vanderbilt, 5-11, 192 A productive player who found himself in solo coverage plenty.

95. Trevin Wade CB, Arizona, 5-10, 192

He plays faster than he timed in workouts. 96. James Hanna TE, Oklahoma, 6-4, 252

Guy with 4.49 speed who can go get the ball in the passing game. 97. Brian Quick

WR, Appalachian State, 6-4, 220 Climbing on developmental curve. 98. Cam Johnson

DE/OLB, Virginia, 6-3, 268 Played in both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes.

99. Taylor Thompson TE, SMU, 6-6, 259

Never played a down at tight end in college — Junes Jones' offense at SMU doesn't even use one.

100. Chris Greenwood CB, Albion, 6-1, 193

Ran a 4.41 at Michigan's pro day and had a staggering 43-inch vertical jump.

Broncos' Matt Russell will have big say on draft day

By Lindsay H. Jones The Denver Post

April 22, 2012

Matt Russell was one of the best college football players this state has seen, a running back-blasting, hair-flying tackling machine who in 1996 won the Butkus Award as the nation's best linebacker while at the University of Colorado.

When he was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1997, at age 23, Russell pictured himself having a long NFL career. Turns out, he was partially right.

His playing career derailed by injuries, Russell channeled the passion he had as a player into scouting. As the Broncos' director of player personnel, Russell will have

a significant say in each player Denver selects in the NFL draft this week.

"For me, personally, to be back here in Colorado, it's not just a job. I'm a fan as well, and I have been for 20 years," said Russell, who joined the team's personnel

staff in 2009. "When I was given the opportunity to come back here, it was one of those things where I was going to do everything I can to never leave."

Russell was raised on military bases in Japan, England and Germany, first playing

soccer, including a stint on an elite English youth team as a pre-teen. But his was a football family — his father and older brother played college football at Baylor and Arkansas, respectively — and Russell was a prototypical linebacker.

"Matt was a guy that loved everything about football," Colorado linebackers coach

Brian Cabral said. "He loved practice. He loved when it was hard. He was very passionate about everything with football. Every phase that had to do with the

game, he loved it all."

Yet Russell's professional career lasted only 14 games of his rookie season. In the 1998 preseason, Russell tore up his right knee. A year later, Russell blew out every

ligament in his left knee in a preseason game in Atlanta.

"I think I knew on my way to the ground that I was done. It was so bad," Russell said. "When I hit the ground, I had the base of my femur in one hand, and my (tibia and fibula) in the other hand."

Russell flew back to Colorado, where doctors at CU performed a second knee surgery in a year. He stayed in Boulder that fall going through extensive rehabilitation and coming to terms with the likelihood he would never play again.

"I probably was guilty of not having a fallback plan," Russell said. "I wouldn't say I took it for granted, but I never really thought about it being taken away from me,

and when it was, it was a shock. Like, what am I going to do next?"

He considered buying a pass for the Eurorail and traveling around Europe, but wound up taking a graduate assistant job on the CU coaching staff. He quickly

realized he didn't want to coach, but he found a career in football anyway.

During his time with the Lions, Russell befriended a scout named Thomas Dimitroff, who also lived in Boulder, and in 2000, Dimitroff introduced him to Scott Pioli, who

at the time was the assistant director of player personnel for the New England Patriots. Pioli hired Russell the next season to scout the West Coast.

"I remember to the day the first time I backed out of my driveway, because you drive it. I backed out of my driveway like, all right, this is going to be crazy,"

Russell said.

As a West Coast scout, he was driving from Boulder to Seattle to the Bay Area in northern California to Los Angeles and San Diego, to Arizona and Las Vegas and

Salt Lake City and back.

Each fall, Russell put about 20,000 miles on his pickup truck. He checked out thousands of players in his seven years as a scout for New England and Philadelphia

before the Broncos offered him a job as director of college scouting in 2009.

"He just transferred all of his energy and passion as a player into scouting. It's not a surprise to me that he's successful," Cabral said. "I do know that a guy that is

very passionate like he is will turn over every stone, ask very hard questions. You have to have an eye for that stuff, and he obviously has that."

In January, the Broncos promoted Russell to director of player personnel. He now oversees pro scouting in addition to the college draft preparation. He spends his

days mostly in his office at Dove Valley instead of out on the road. He has even cut his shoulder-length blond hair.

"When you're in college (scouting) strictly, you get kind of detached from the team.

You almost feel like you're not as much a part of it because you're on the road the whole time. But being here, you just feel a lot more involved, so that's probably the best part of that," Russell said.

"I love getting our draft board stacked. It's fun to start to target players that you really, really like, and then the challenge is getting them."

Broncos' Miller heaps praise on Melvin Ingram

By Marc Sessler NFL.com

April 21, 2012

Denver Broncoslinebacker Von Miller is having another go at scouting this year's NFL draft.

The first time around, his report on quarterback Robert Griffin III didn't exactly

glow. Miller played against RG3 while at Texas A&M and said, "He can run and throw, but I wouldn't put him in that same class as (Michael) Vick, Cam (Newton) or (Josh) Freeman."

Sorry -- Josh Freeman?

Miller's take on South Carolina's Melvin Ingram is a different story. Ingram comes

with one big question: Is he a defensive end or outside linebacker? After training with Ingram in Florida, Miller believes it's a nonissue. The kid can rush the passer.

"Every player in the draft has their knocks. His just happens to be ... where do you

play him? In my opinion, he can play both (positions). He can play almost anywhere," Miller told The Denver Post on Friday.

"I mean, I didn't have elite size at all, and Melvin, he's a lot bigger than me. I think

he can play linebacker, inside or outside. I think he can play defensive end, he can rush in the middle sometimes, kind of like a hybrid, I think he can do some of the things I did last year, maybe more."

"Maybe more" is a scary thought after what Miller accomplished as a rookie last season.

Ingram is steadily rising in mocks. Among the NFL Network crew, Chad Reuter currently has Ingram going No. 12 to the Seattle Seahawks. Charley Casserly and

Charles Davis have him landing with the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 7. How Ingram will be used remains to be seen, but teams don't appear scared off in the least.

When does Alfonzo Dennard get drafted?

By Bill Williamson ESPN.com

April 21, 2012 Alfonzo Dennard created a potential dilemma for NFL teams, including some from

the AFC West.

The Nebraska cornerback was arrested Saturday morning in Lincoln for allegedly assaulting a police officer. He is reportedly still in jail. Dennard, who already had some character concerns, could have gone in the top 40-50 picks. However, his

arrest will likely cause him to tumble in the draft.

Teams are going to have to weigh the possibility of taking a talented player at a premium position against the reality of his arrest and the public perception surrounding it.

Denver, Oakland and San Diego are teams that could take a cornerback in the early

rounds. If a talent such as Dennard was available late in the third or fourth round, it would be tempting for any team to take him.

There is no doubt, the middle rounds have just become more interesting.

In other AFC West news:

The Eagles are reportedly willing to take what they can get for cornerback Asante Samuel. Denver reportedly tried to get Samuel, but couldn’t come to

terms with him. Coming to an accord with Samuel is the key for the deal going through with any team.

Oakland linebacker Rolando McClain has settled a lawsuit stemming from a

2008 incident. He is facing a May trial on an assault involving a gun allegation stemming from an incident last fall.

Denver defensive tackle Ben Garland’s Air Force commitment has been fulfilled and he has re-joined the team. The high-motor player has a chance to make the roster, but his presence on the roster doesn’t decrease Denver’s

need at the position.

Team needs: Denver Broncos

By Evan Silva Pro Football Talk

April 21, 2012 The Broncos won a playoff game with a run-first quarterback, but that wasn’t the

identity John Elway and John Fox wanted for their football team. Cutting ties with last year’s offensive formula, the Broncos believe their future is now following the

acquisition of Peyton Manning. They head to next week’s draft trying to upgrade around him.

Defensive tackle: Denver is shorthanded on the interior defensive line after losing a bidding war with the Saints for Brodrick Bunkley. Left behind are injury-plagued

31-year-old Ty Warren, 33-year-old Justin Bannan, and journeyman Kevin Vickerson, who’s only still on the roster because he took a pay cut. The Broncos

seem to be a lock to invest an early-round draft pick on a defensive tackle. Penn State’s Devon Still would be a logical fit at No. 25 overall.

Running back: The Broncos’ rushing attempts will go way down in the “Manning

offense,” but the backfield still requires an upgrade. Willis McGahee is entering his age-31 campaign and doesn’t contribute in passing situations. Knowshon Moreno likely isn’t a part of Denver’s long-term plans, and Lance Ball, Jeremiah Johnson,

and Mario Fannin are all replacement-level talents. Like Still, Boise State’s Doug Martin should be in the mix at the 25th pick.

Quarterback: Manning is 36 years old with a three-times surgically repaired neck.

Currently, Caleb Hanie is his backup. The Broncos can’t feel comfortable about the depth chart behind their aging, injury-risk starter, and it’s likely they’ll use an early- to middle-round draft pick on a quarterback to bring along slowly. They’ve

shown interest in Arizona State’s Brock Osweiler and Wisconsin’s Russell Wilson.

Cornerback: Champ Bailey turns 34 in a couple of months, and No. 2 corner Tracy Porter only has a one-year deal. Likely nickel back Chris Harris flashed potential as

an undrafted rookie last season, but there is very little long-term stability at this position.

Ex-CU Buff Matt Russell key to Broncos' draft preparation

Butkus Award winner serves as Denver's director of player personnel

By Ryan Thorburn

The Daily Camera (Boulder)

April 21, 2012

ENGLEWOOD -- On the Internet search engines Matt Russell is best know as the victim of a Nate Solder pancake block.

During Colorado's pro timing day a year ago, the 6-foot-8, 319-pound offensive

tackle leveled Russell during a drill inside the practice bubble that has been replayed on Youtube well over 100,000 times by draftniks and Buffs fans.

"That thing went viral," Russell said with a laugh during a recent interview with the

Daily Camera. "I'll never hold a (blocking) bag again, put it that way."

In the behind-the-scenes world of NFL front office executives, Russell is considered to be one of the top up-and-coming talents in the business.

This January John Elway promoted Russell -- best known to older Buffs supporters

as the consensus All-American linebacker who won the Butkus Award after the 1996 season -- to director of player personnel of the Denver Broncos.

Russell's professional playing career with the Detroit Lions was cut short by injuries.

But when he steps into the Dove Valley war room with No. 7 for Thursday's first round of the NFL Draft, it's going to feel like Super Bowl Sunday.

"I think my loyalty to this state goes back to when I was 18 years old," said Russell, now 38, who played at CU from 1993-96 when Elway was still breaking the

huddle at Mile High Stadium and searching for his first Lombardi Trophy. "The Broncos were all we paid attention to when we were in college. And so I'm grateful

for the opportunity that John has given me and grateful for the opportunity to stay home. This is special to not just work for a team, but to work for the Broncos."

For the love of the game

Russell, whose father served in the Air Force, was born in Tokyo, spent a chunk of

his childhood in Europe, and played high school football in Washington, D.C., and Fairview Heights, Ill.

After logging all those frequent-flyer miles early in his life, Russell declared Boulder

home when Bill McCartney invited him to the CU campus for an official visit.

"I grew up all over the world. We had skied in Switzerland, skied in Austria, and I had always loved the mountains," Russell recalled. "I had gone to Iowa the week

before and then went to Colorado. As soon as I landed and drove into Boulder I went, 'That's an easy decision.'"

Russell's host on the recruiting trip was Greg Biekert, another prize pupil of fabled

CU linebackers coach Brian Cabral.

At the time, the Buffs were only two years removed from winning the national championship, McCartney and his coaching staff were landing top-10 recruiting

classes, and the program was seemingly churning out productive NFL players.

During Russell's four seasons, the CU machine produced a 39-8-1 record. The Buffs finished his freshman season ranked 17th nationally and in the Associated Press top 10 the next three years.

But a 4-0 record in bowl games still doesn't heal the scar of an 0-4 mark against Big Red.

"My teammates, my recruiting class, I stay in touch with a lot of those guys. I think just the fact that we won was the biggest thing," Russell said. "I still can't get over

the fact that we never beat Nebraska. We had great teams, we had strong teams, and I have nothing but fond memories. I'm extremely loyal to that place."

The feeling is mutual.

Inside the Dal Ward Center, a new mural depicting the great Buffs of decades gone

by includes a larger-than-life image of Russell coming at you in his vintage No. 16 jersey.

Second-year CU head coach Jon Embree was an assistant coach under both

McCartney and Rick Neuheisel during Russell's memorable run with the Buffaloes.

Russell finished his career second on the program's all-time tackles list (446) with an unassisted tackles record (282) that still stands. He had 16 tackles, two third-

down sacks and two fumble recoveries during a 17-12 loss at Nebraska in 1996 to lock up the prestigious Butkus Award.

"The beauty of Matt Russell was the fact that he loved football," Cabral said. "He loved everything about it. He loved practice, he loved the sweat, he loved the tears,

he just loved the game. He just left everything on the field. That's how he practiced, that's how he played."

A tough pill to swallow

Detroit selected Russell in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft. A dynamic young scout named Thomas Dimitroff appeared to have delivered a steal to the Lions'

brass with the 130th pick.

No matter how much homework is done on a prospect, however, it's impossible to predict future health problems for any player in this violent profession.

Russell suffered two serious knee injuries and retired in 1999 after playing in only

14 NFL games.

"It was a tough pill to swallow. I was healthy all through college and never really had anything other than some bumps," Russell said. "So to have the back-to-back

knee injuries, at the time it was really difficult. As I look back on it now, it was a dream that I was able to fulfill. I always wanted to play in the NFL. I certainly wish it would have lasted longer. But it was probably one of the most difficult times of

my life with it being done so quickly."

Gary Barnett brought Russell back to Boulder to help coach the CU secondary during the 2000 season while assistant coach Tom McMahon was battling cancer.

The Buffs went on to win the Big 12 title a year later. Russell had decided to go

down a different career path but received his own gargantuan championship ring in 2001.

With some help from Dimitroff -- Russell's mentor and close friend, who is currently

the highly respected general manager of the Atlanta Falcons -- he made the transition from the field to the press box as a college scout for the New England

Patriots.

"I really didn't want to coach," Russell said. "I've always kind of had a passion for this going back to when I was a kid. I used to look at Texas football and I knew all of the top high school players coming out and where they were going and where

they committed.

"There was always kind of a passion on this side and (Dimitroff) knew that. From the day I got done playing he was going, 'This is what you should do.'"

Tom Brady, the ultimate sixth-round steal from the 2000 draft, was the most

valuable player of the Super Bowl in 2001. Russell was later credited with persuading Scott Pioli into drafting Matt Cassell, who never started a college game

at USC but helped the Patriots to an 11-5 record in 2008 when Brady was lost to injury.

In 2003, Russell left New England to work for the Philadelphia Eagles, another of the NFL's more successful and stable organizations in the salary cap/free agency

era.

In 2009, Josh McDaniels, Bill Belichick's former offensive coordinator in New England, brought Russell back to Colorado as a scout for the Broncos.

Elway obviously respected Russell's knack for evaluating talent and assembling a

roster. After the franchise's Hall of Fame quarterback took over as the Broncos' executive vice president of football operations he gave Russell a raise and greater

responsibility.

"Matt's energy and passion for his work have earned him a tremendous amount of respect from those inside our organization," Elway said in a release after elevating

Russell's position in the organization. "His leadership and evaluation skills make him the perfect fit to oversee the player personnel departments."

Ready to run through a wall

The 1994 Buffs turned out to be McCartney's final team at CU. And perhaps the

legendary coach's most talented group.

Michael Westbrook, Rashaan Salaam, Christian Fauria, Ted Johnson, Kordell Stewart, Darius Holland and Chris Hudson were all picked within the first three rounds of the 1995 NFL Draft after CU's 11-1 campaign.

Russell didn't just compete against players with top-shelf talent every day in

practice. He was also studying them.

"I think as players you're always looking at the guys around you," Russell said. "You look at who's better and who does what good and who struggles at some

things. I think you're always kind of in that scouting mode a little bit."

In a lot of cases, great players are poor evaluators of talent. See Jordan, Michael.

It took a little time before Russell, a great college player, recovered mentally from the bitter end to his professional career inside the lines.

"It was tough. At first when you're standing on the practice field a year or two after

you played, watching these guys play, it's kind of like the mind is willing but the body won't," he said. "It was difficult. My first couple years in scouting, going off to

training camp and watching when I was in New England, you still feel like you can do it. And you want to.

"After a couple of years, you just kind of accept what happened to you and you move on and put it in the rearview mirror."

In addition to starring for the Buffs and playing in the league, Embree and CU offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy both worked as NFL assistants.

They have a lot of respect for Russell's ascension with the Broncos.

"Not only was he a great player, but on top of that he's a great person," said Bieniemy, who was the running backs coach for the Minnesota Vikings before

returning to CU to help Embree rebuild the program. "That's what makes it fun following him and seeing the success that he has had over the years."

Having a Buff roaming the top-floor hallways of an NFL franchise can also help

Embree in the living room with prospects and parents, just like having Solder and Jimmy Smith drafted in the first round last year helped boost recruiting.

"Matt is a great football mind. He's one of those guys that obviously had talent, but

he really did a good job with his passion for the game and how hard he worked," Embree said. "That just translates to what he's doing now. He's a good evaluator of talent. He knows what he's doing. ...

"It will help us in recruiting because they can see that our guys go on and do things

on the next level, be it coaching or playing or personnel."

Russell lives in Boulder and makes the long commute down to the Broncos headquarters.

"The C-470 toll bills are killing me," he said.

As preparations for the draft were ratcheting up, Russell's typical day would begin

at 5:45 a.m., with an on-time arrival at his office by 7:15 a.m.

"We're meeting all day and trying to get the draft board set," Russell said. "I try to get out of here by 6:30 (p.m.) and get home by 7:30 or 8, hang with family for a

couple hours, sleep, get up and do it again the next day."

The is a sense of urgency in the building for the Broncos to win right away is palpable thanks to the signing of uber free agent quarterback Peyton Manning.

Coming off the Tebowmania playoff run Elway and the rest of the management

team will have the 25th pick in the first round and five additional picks in subsequent rounds with which to work.

Russell's adrenaline will be pumping like it was when Solder was bearing down on

him last April.

"Elway has brought great leadership to the building. The culture is great. Everyone enjoys coming to work," Russell said. "The way John treats people makes you want to run through a wall for him."

Joel Dreessen Counts Childhood Hero Elway

As His Boss

Dreessen Signed A 3 Year, $8.5 Million Free Agent Deal By Justin Adams

7 News (KMGH) April 21, 2012

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- When he was a teenager growing up in Fort Morgan, Joel Dreessen would grab a football, dart into his backyard and pretend like so many

other Colorado kids that he was John Elway.

Now, the 29-year-old tight end in his seventh NFL season counts his childhood hero as his boss, too.

Dreessen, a former Colorado State University standout, signed a three-year, $8.5 million free agent deal with the Broncos this spring after spending the last five

seasons in Houston.

He and Jacob Tamme, who played in Indianapolis from 2008-11, are part of a revamped tight ends group that will give quarterback Peyton Manning big targets

and extra protection as he makes his comeback in Denver after spending the last of his 14 seasons with the Colts sidelined by neck trouble.

"It's a blessing to be back in Colorado," Dreessen said this week during a break in the Broncos' offseason conditioning program.

"I was the biggest Broncos fan ever, I really was," Dreessen said. "I can't tell you

how many times I threw the football up to myself in the backyard pretending I was John Elway. I did it so many times. I was a sophomore and junior in high school when they were winning the Super Bowl in `97 and `98, and I was skipping class

to try to get down to Denver to go to the parades and all that.

"When I left CSU and I was a couple of years into the league, my best friend and roommate, Erik Pears, he played for the Broncos (in 2006-07). I remember joking around with him saying, `I'm going to be a Bronco someday. You wait and see.'

And it came full-circle."

Dreessen's pro career was nearly cut short long before he had a chance to cash in on free agency this spring. The New York Jets drafted him in 2005 in the sixth round, but cut him the following year. He spent 2006 out of the league.

"That playing in the NFL is a privilege and I don't take a single day for granted,"

Dreessen said of the main lesson he learned during his forced sabbatical. "From

that moment on -- I'm not saying that I didn't do it my rookie year -- but after being cut by Eric Mangini and the Jets, I was like, `Man, this thing goes fast. You

have to sacrifice everything to make it work.' So, I don't take a single day for granted. I try to come in as early as I possibly can and I try to stay late.

"At the same time, within those hours, you have to be productive. Whether you're studying, learning the offense, whether you're watching tape, whether you're

working out -- it's a matter of working smart."

Dreessen hooked up with the Texans in 2007 but his career didn't take off until 2010. Ten of Dreessen's 13 career touchdown grabs came in the last two seasons, including six last year. Overall, he has hauled in 110 passes for 1,364 yards.

When he became a free agent, his phone buzzed with a text from Elway.

"He was like, `Joel, I hope you come here. I think you're going to be wildly successful here in Denver,"' Dreessen recounted. "That was kind of a selling point

for me."

His first interaction with Elway had come several years earlier.

"I actually met him in college. We were playing a game against the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. He was in the locker room, so I went up and introduced myself then," Dreessen said. "I don't know if he remembers that, but I

do."

After all, he'd emulated Elway so many times, along with all the other greats of those Broncos teams that won back-to-back Super Bowls in the late 1990s.

"I was all those guys: Ed McCaffrey, Shannon Sharpe, Terrell Davis, I loved them all, I really did," Dreessen said. "I think I've still got T-shirts in my bedroom back

home in Fort Morgan with those guys' picture on it, so I might have to go wear one of those and be funny."

Dreessen has worn Broncos gear his whole life, but he had to put aside his emotional ties when he went to work for his favorite team.

"I have to get over that real quickly, because I've got a job to do. I've got a whole new offense to learn, and I'm studying my tail off to get that squared away," he

said. "I want to find another level to my career, and that was the big reason I left Texas."

Now that he's back in Colorado, he knows all those phone calls home aren't going to cut it anymore.

"I have not been out to Fort Morgan yet. My mom is going to kill me," Dreessen

said. "I'm thinking about going there this weekend, but the CSU spring game is Saturday, so I don't know. She might have to be mad at me still."