Broncos name Kevin Hogan starting quarterback for Hall of Fame game against Falcons By Ryan O’Halloran and Kyle Fredrickson The Denver Post July 30, 2019 The Broncos’ backup quarterback battle gained some initial clarity Monday when coach Vic Fangio announced after practice that Kevin Hogan will start in Thursday’s Pro Football Hall of Fame game against the Falcons. Hogan, listed as second-team on the initial depth chart, began camp with the second unit and has maintained an edge over rookie second-round pick Drew Lock. Starting quarterback Joe Flacco will not play against Atlanta. “We’re going to go with Kevin to begin with, and then Drew is going to follow him and then (Brett Rypien) is going to follow him,” Fangio said. Hogan will see his first action in a Broncos uniform since he was acquired via waivers from Washington after the 2018 preseason. He was the No. 3 quarterback until Chad Kelly was released in October following his arrest. Hogan spent the remainder of the year as Case Keenum’s backup but did not play a snap. Hogan was 43-of-67 passing for 462 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions for the Redskins last preseason. The expectations for his Denver debut? “Just play good,” Fangio said. “Throw the ball where it’s supposed to go, be good with your checks and be efficient.” Hogan’s selection as QB1 on Thursday shouldn’t be interpreted as a major development, though, as the staff continues to track the progress of its entire quarterbacks group through completion of training camp. Hogan entered the Denver locker room after practice Monday before reporters were alerted he would start and Hogan was not immediately available for an interview. Meanwhile, Fangio said Lock has been “doing well” with some of his best work in 7-on-7 drills coming this week: “You need to see that progress in 11-on-11 and then ultimately in games,” Fangio said, “but he’s getting better.” Fangio added that most starters will not play Thursday outside of “some workouts” and a likely pre-game conditioning test in Canton, Ohio; providing those resting four consecutive days without a padded practice. Players are off on Friday, and a previously scheduled Saturday practice will be replaced with meeting and weight-lifting sessions. “Just some extra recovery time,” Fangio said.

Broncos Camp Rewind: Practice No. 10 starts inside, finishes outside By Ryan O’Halloran The Denver Post July 30, 2019 Player attendance Did not practice: LB Todd Davis (calf, ninth consecutive missed practice), WR River Cracraft (oblique, eighth), TE Jake Butt (knee, seventh), WR DeaSean Hamilton (hamstring, fourth), RT Ja’Wuan James (lower leg, third), TE Bug Howard (ankle, third), OL Jake Rodgers (calf, third) and CB Bryce Callahan (foot, first). Cracraft went through some individual drills, but no team work. OLB Dekoda Watson (lower leg) went through team stretch but was a spectator during defense/special-teams drills. Coach Vic Fangio, on Butt: “You get concerned. Jake keeps having these little potholes. He starts feeling good, moves a little, does something and then it doesn’t feel so good. … The important thing is keeping his spirits up.” Top play During 11-on-11 work, rookie WR Juwann Winfree made a sliding catch down the left sideline. QB Joe Flacco placed the pass so only Winfree could get to it. Thumbs-up ILB Joe Jones. During 7-on-7, he read the running back going to the flat and then the eyes of QB Drew Lock to make the interception. WR Courtland Sutton. The second-year player is hitting his stride. He had several fine catches during practice. Thumbs-down DE Dre’Mont Jones. The rookie third-round pick went 0-2 in a pass rush drill against C Connor McGovern. Dropped passes. TE Noah Fant and WR Tim Patrick dropped passes by QB Joe Flacco. Odds and ends The practice was scheduled to be open for fans, but the gates were closed because of weather. At 2 p.m., the Broncos started practice inside before moving outside 45 minutes later. “These guys are seamless,” coach Vic Fangio said. “We started inside and when we came back out, we picked right back up where we were.” The Broncos ran 77 snaps of 11-on-11. The workout concluded with QB Drew Lock taking a knee in the “victory” formation. Quarterback snaps (11-on-11): Joe Flacco 31, Kevin Hogan 13, Lock 22 and Brett Rypien 11.

WR Emmanuel Sanders (Achilles) made his first 11-on-11 appearance of camp and caught a pass from Flacco. “Hopefully you’re going to see him do a little more each and every day,” Fangio said. “When we get back into training camp mode (next Sunday), hopefully you’ll see him play 3-5 more plays than (Monday).” The 11-on-11 work appeared to be cleaner than the 12-penalty mess Saturday. We charted the offense with three false starts before the final period. On Flacco’s move-the-ball series (2:48 remaining, trailing by three points, at his 31-yard line), there were penalties on three consecutive plays. “The two penalties were planned by me — I told them to do that,” said Fangio, not revealing his rationale. “Some of them looked like penalties but were actually clean plays — the center snapped the ball before he was supposed to. They’re bad plays, but not penalties. The quarterback is going to get clobbered.” C Connor McGovern’s shotgun snaps hit a rough patch late in practice when he delivered a groundball to Flacco (aborted play). “He may play a little bit (Thursday),” Fangio said of McGovern. “Most of the snap issues we’ve had have been in the shotgun, and he was excellent (on Saturday), which was good to see.” To start pass rush/protection drills, OLB Bradley Chubb used his power to push LT Garett Bolles backward and then onto his rear end. Lock’s second period of 11-on-11 started with a dropped snap from under center. Minus Bryce Callahan (foot) and momentarily Chris Harris (who went to the locker room), Isaac Yiadom and De’Vante Bausby were the first-team cornerbacks. Working against the third-team offense, OLB Von Miller jumped offside to start a series. Two plays later, S Justin Simmons dropped an interception against Rypien. A Hogan series during that period: Incompletion, sack and sack. Flacco was 4-of-4 during a team period with completions to TE Noah Fant, TE Troy Fumagalli, WR Tim Patrick and WR Courtland Sutton. A Lock possession late in practice: Scramble, sack, completion, sack and completion to Patrick. Can’t throw the football if you don’t have time. Tuesday’s schedule Practice 9:15-noon (open to fans).

11 observations about the Broncos’ first 2019 preseason depth chart By Ryan O’Halloran The Denver Post July 30, 2019 Vic Fangio released the first depth chart of his NFL head-coaching career on Monday. Not that he is putting much stock into it. Per league rules, the Broncos revealed their initial/unofficial depth chart ahead of Thursday’s Pro Football Hall of Fame Game against the Atlanta Falcons. “I’m going to be honest with you — I wouldn’t read it at all,” Fangio said after practice. “(Team officials) come into me and ask me to put this depth chart together and I gave it to the coaches. “You guys (in the media) know who’s going to be working with the 1s. After that, it’s a free-for-all. If you put any stock into it, you’re mistaken.” When does Fangio pay attention to the depth chart? “When we cut down to 53 (players),” he said. The depth chart, though, is always a good talking point and here 11 thoughts: 1. Rookie quarterback Drew Lock is listed as No. 3 behind Joe Flacco (expected) and Kevin Hogan (semi-expected). Lock has taken a bit more second-team reps in recent practices. Fangio said Hogan will start against Atlanta. 2. At receiver, Fred Brown is listed ahead of Trinity Benson and Brendan Langley at one spot; at the other, Juwann Winfree and Kelvin McKnight are listed Nos. 3-4. 3. Jake Rodgers is listed as the second-team right tackle, but he’s hurt (calf) and Elijah Wilkinson has worked as the No. 2 right tackle in camp and has replaced Ja’Wuan James (lower leg) in recent days. 4. At tight end, it’s Jeff Heuerman, Noah Fant and Troy Fumagalli as the top three. Jake Butt, out more than a week, is listed at No. 4. 5. Phillip Lindsay is listed as the No. 1 running back, followed by Royce Freeman and Devontae Booker. 6. Rookie Justin Hollins is listed as the back-up behind OLB Bradley Chubb and Dekoda Watson as the back-up to OLB Von Miller. Jeff Holland, listed on the third team, is fighting for a roster spot. 7. An injured Todd Davis is listed as a starter, ahead of Alexander Johnson and Josh Watson. Both players have rotated with the first-team defense since Davis went down (calf).

8. Kareem Jackson is listed as the No. 1 strong safety in the base defense. Su’a Cravens is No. 2. At free safety, Will Parks is No. 2 behind Justin Simmons. Dymonte Thomas and Shamarko Thomas are Nos. 3-4, respectively. Cravens’ status on cutdown day could come down to numbers. Cravens has little special teams experience, which could be a big factor. 9. Kick returner: Booker, River Cracraft (who’s injured), Langley and rookie running back Devontae Jackson. 10. Punt returner: Cracraft, Hamilton, Langley and rookie receiver Kelvin McKnight. Injuries to Cracraft and Hamilton (hamstring) will give other players an opportunity against Atlanta. Broncos initial preseason depth chart OFFENSE QB — 5 Joe Flacco; 9 Kevin Hogan; 5 Drew Lock; 4 Brett Rypien RB — 30 Phillip Lindsay; 28 Royce Freeman; 23 Devontae Booker; 33 Khalfani Muhammad; 48 Devontae Jackson; 49 David Williams FB — 32 Andy Janovich; 39 George Aston WR — 10 Emmanuel Sanders; 17 DaeSean Hamilton;15 Juwann Winfree; 16 Kelvin McKnight; 11 River Cracraft; 13 Steven Dunbar Jr. WR — 14 Courtland Sutton; 81 Tim Patrick; 19 Fred Brown; 2 Trinity Benson; 12 Brendan Langley; 83 Jamarius Way; 86 Nick Williams TE — 82 Jeff Heuerman; 87 Noah Fant; 84 Tony Fumagalli; 80 Jake Butt; 89 Austin Fort; 85 Bug Howard LT — 72 Garett Bolles; 68 Elijah Wilkinson; 79 Chaz Green LG — 66 Dalton Risner; 77 Sam Jones; 73 John Leglue C — 60 Connor McGovern; 64 Jake Brendel; 71 Austin Schlottmann RG — 65 Ron Leary; 67 Don Barclay; 63 Ryan Crozier RT — 70 Ja’Wuan James; 69 Jake Rodgers; 75 Quinn Bailey DEFENSE DE — 99 Adam Gotsis; 57 DeMarcus Walker; 90 Billy Winn NT — 96 Shelby Harris; 92 Zach Kerr; 98 Mike Purcell DE — 95 Derek Wolfe; 93 Dre’Mont Jones; 97 DeShawn Williams SLB — 55 Bradley Chubb; 52 Justin Hollins; 50 Aaron Wallace; 94 Ahmad Gooden WLB — 58 Von Miller; 56 Dekoda Watson; 46 Jeff Holland; 59 Malik Reed ILB — 47 Josey Jewell; 43 Joseph Jones; 40 Keishawn Bierria; 53 Joe Dineen ILB — 51 Todd Davis; 45 Alexander Johnson; 54 Josh Watson LCB — 25 Chris Harris Jr.; 26 Isaac Yiadom; 27 Horace Richardson; 49 Alijah Holder RCB — 29 Bryce Callahan; 41 De’Vante Bausby; 37 Linden Stephens; 39 Trey Johnson SS — 22 Kareem Jackson; 21 Su’a Cravens; 36 Trey Marshall; 20 Jamal Carter FS — 31 Justin Simmons; 34 Will Parks; 35 Dymonte Thomas PK — 8 Brandon McManus KO — 8 Brandon McManus P — 6 Colby Wadman H — 6 Colby Wadman LS — 42 Casey Kreiter KR — 23 Devontae Booker; 11 River Cracraft; 12 Brendan Langley; 48 Devontae Jackson PR — 11 River Cracraft; 17 DaeSean Hamilton;12 Brendan Langley; 16 Kelvin McKnight

Broncos Mailbag: If starters don’t play, what can be learned from Hall of Fame Game? By Ryan O’Halloran The Denver Post July 30, 2019 I was a 22-year season-ticket holder with the Ravens. I am now a Broncos fan. Joe Flacco will always keep your team in the game until the end. He did it with less talented receivers. Give the man a chance. — Jerry Dearstine, Stewartstown, Pa. I should send this submission along to Broncos general manager John Elway, coach Vic Fangio and offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello. They may pin it up on their office walls. The outside praise for Flacco, before he even throws a pass for the Broncos, remains tepid. But Jerry does have a point: The guy knows how to win football games — 93-67 record in the regular season. My rub with Flacco having success with the Broncos is the lack of firepower around him. Which tight end will emerge the quickest? Can Emmanuel Sanders be effective in Week 1 even if he has a snap-count limitation? Can the pass protection hold up? Who do you think will be the starting tight end and the most underrated tight end? — Dammien Woolsey, Florence, S.C. Let’s say the Broncos open the season with a first-and-10 from their 25-yard line at Oakland. If the Broncos line up in one-tight end personnel, it’s probably Jeff Heuerman. If it’s two-tight end personnel, I’ll say it’s Heuerman and rookie Noah Fant. Who’s the most underrated: A couple of answers. Heuerman, even though he could be the opening-night starter, is flying under the radar. It’s a positive that he has participated in every practice and seems to be doing decent things as a receiver on short-to-intermediate routes. But what about undrafted rookie Austin Fort? I didn’t have him anywhere near the roster bubble when camp started, but Jake Butt (ACL) has missed seven consecutive practices and Fort is making the most out of his chances. Hey Ryan, what can we expect to learn at the Hall of Fame game? Will the tight end battle clear up? I can’t imagine Jeff Heuerman will be the No. 1 guy come the regular season. — James, Parker Second question first. I talked about Heuerman-tight end situation in the previous question. … Now, what can we learn on Thursday night: A lot … it just won’t be about the starters. Most of them won’t play. So, what I’ll be watching. 1. Drew Lock, when he enters the game after Kevin Hogan, and how he looks. 2. The second-unit offensive line, chiefly RT/LT Elijah Wilkinson. Can he continue his strong camp? 3. The inside linebackers. Todd Davis is hurt and Josey Jewell isn’t expected to play so this is a chance for Alexander Johnson, Josh Watson, etc., to show they can handle base- and sub-down duties if Davis (calf) is slow to return. 4. The return game. There are no live returns in practice so this will be the first chance for us to see what the pecking order is and who the official candidates are.

Why do the Broncos waste reps on Brett Rypien? Why is he even with the team? When the three QBs who will actually play need as much practice as possible within the new system? Thanks much. I enjoy your commentary. — Darrell Jones, Highlands Ranch No love for Ryp? Having a fourth quarterback serves a purpose for the Broncos. Flacco is 34 years old so he doesn’t need a ton of reps. And let’s face it, Rypien isn’t getting the same amount of work as the other three quarterbacks. Note the 11-on-11 snaps on Saturday: Flacco 33, Hogan 16, Lock 21 and Rypien three. The Broncos see Rypien as a developmental quarterback who they could stash on the practice squad this year. Thanks for reading. How’s Brendan Langley looking like out there in camp? Do you think he has a shot at making the roster at a wide receiver? And why did the team shift him from cornerback? — Jeff R., Boulder Langley is making the transition from cornerback to receiver after two tough years since being a third-round draft pick. The injuries at receiver (Sanders is limited and DaeSean Hamilton/River Cracraft are nursing injuries) has afforded Langley some chances. The good part for him is that he hasn’t stood out for dropping passes. I think he’s a long-shot to make the team as a receiver, but if he proves to be the best punt returner, that’s his avenue. As for why the team moved him to receiver — they want to try and salvage him. Period. The athleticism and speed are there, no question. It’s about putting that to use on a consistent level in the preseason games. Who’s been looking good at training camp? Who’s an undrafted guy who could land on the roster like Phillip Lindsay did last year? — Michael Donovan, Denver Let’s run through some guys who have caught our eye (starter or otherwise). 1. CB Bryce Callahan. He missed Monday’s practice because of a foot injury but he has looked comfortable playing outside in coverage. 2. S Justin Simmons. His interceptions are adding up, he picked off Rypien on Monday. 3. ILB Josh Watson. A big ask to have a rookie playing a first-team role but he has filled in for Davis.

Broncos visit with running back Theo Riddick, now wait By Mike Klis KUSA July 30, 2019 Former Lion took physical with Broncos on Monday. Riddick has been a tough cover for Fangio defenses. Theo Riddick, who is considered one of the top passing game running backs in the league, visited the Broncos Monday. Riddick met with general manager John Elway, head coach Vic Fangio and others at the team headquarters. The running back then left the facility without a deal. League sources tell 9News that Riddick will take some time to decide between the Broncos and New Orleans Saints. Riddick played six seasons with the Detroit Lions. In the past four seasons he averaged 61.75 catches and 473 receiving yards. He was released Saturday in large part because he was owed a $3.2 million salary. He took a physical Monday but left Broncos headquarters. There's still a chance the Broncos will sign Riddick and have him compete with Devontae Booker for the team’s third-down running back slot. Riddick, 28, is more pass catcher than rusher. Last year with the Lions, he had 61 catches for 384 yards while rushing just 40 times, albeit for 171 yards and a 4.3-yard average. Here are Riddick’s receiving stats the past four years with the Lions: 2015 … 80 catches … 697 yards … 3 TDs 2016 … 53 catches … 371 yards … 5 TDs 2017 … 53 catches … 444 yards … 2 TDs 2018 … 61 catches … 384 yards … 0 TDs Totals … 247 catches … 1,896 …. 10 TDs Riddick was a problem for Fangio’s Chicago Bears’ defense in recent years. In 2018, Riddick had 13 catches for 108 yards in two games against the Bears. In 2017, Riddick had 17 carries for 84 yards (4.94-yard average) against Chicago. The Broncos have Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman as their top two running backs.

Fangio picks the deserving Hogan as HOF Game starting QB By Mike Klis KUSA July 30, 2019 The rookie Drew Lock may be progressing, but Hogan has been backup to Joe Flacco, who won't play, since April. Add fairness to the list of early impressions for Vic Fangio. The Broncos’ first-time head coach made the right call choosing Kevin Hogan to start his team’s first preseason game Thursday and not rookie Drew Lock. “We’re going to go with Kevin to begin with,’’ Fangio said following another 2 ½-hour practice in full pads Monday. “Then Drew’s going to follow him and then ‘Ryp’ is going to follow him.” Lock and Brett Rypien are rookies. With starters not playing against the Atlanta Falcons in the Hall of Fame Game , and therefore Joe Flacco is not part of the decision, Hogan deserved the nod because he had been the team’s No. 2 quarterback through the entire offseason and first two weeks of training camp. Lock may be the team’s future franchise quarterback as their top-of-the-second-round draft pick. He may have more arm talent and overall athleticism than Hogan. But there are nuances to playing the quarterback position – some as simple as knowing how to call the play in the huddle – where the experienced Hogan has it and Lock is still learning how to execute them. There remains a chance, maybe even better than a 50-50 chance, Lock will be the No. 2 quarterback by the time the Broncos’ set their 53-man roster on August 31. After an encouraging stadium performance Saturday, Lock took more reps with the No. 2 offense Monday than Hogan did. But if coaches are to convince players the offseason matters and camp is important, then Hogan was the correct choice for the Broncos’ preseason opener. And then see if Lock plays well enough to earn the backup role to Flacco for the Broncos' second preseason game August 8 at Seattle.

Broncos release first depth chart of 2019 By Mike Klis KUSA July 30, 2019 For the first official depth chart, Kevin Hogan gets the nod at QB2. For his first official depth chart, Broncos head Coach Vic Fangio defers to the veterans. Kevin Hogan is the No. 2 quarterback. And not rookie Drew Lock, who is the No. 3 QB ahead of fellow rookie Brett Rypien. And veteran Su’a Cravens is a No. 2 safety, ahead of the likes of Jamal Carter and Dymonte Thomas. Otherwise, the Broncos’ depth chart had no surprises. Emmanuel Sanders is a No. 1 receiver even though he has yet to participate in team drills during training camp as he continues to recover from last year’s Achilles injury. Joe Flacco is the No. 1 quarterback and Phillip Lindsay is the No. 1 running back. Jake Butt, who has been bothered by his left knee injury, is listed as the No. 4 tight end behind Jeff Heuerman, Noah Fant and Troy Fumagalli. Devontae Booker is the top kickoff returner and River Cracraft is the top punt returner. Here’s the full Broncos depth chart: Offense WR: Emmanuel Sanders, DaeSean Hamilton, Juwann Winfree, Kelvin McKnight, River Cracraft, Steven Dunbar Jr. LT: Garett Bolles, Elijah Wilkinson, Chaz Green LG: Dalton Risner, Sam Jones, John Leglue C: Connor McGovern. Jake Brendel, Austin Schlottmann RG: Ron Leary, Don Barclay, Ryan Crozier RT: Ja'Wuan James, Jake Rodgers, Quinn Bailey TE: Jeff Heuerman, Noah Fant, Troy Fumagalli, Jake Butt, Austin Fort, Bug Howard WR: Courtland Sutton, Tim Patrick, Fred Brown, Trinity Benson, Brendan Langley, Jamarius Way, Nick Williams

RB: Phillip Lindsay, Royce Freeman, Devontae Booker, Khalfani Muhammad, Devontae Jackson, David Williams QB: Joe Flacco, Kevin Hogan, Drew Lock, Brett Rypien FB: Andy Janovich, George Aston Defense DE: Adam Gotsis, DeMarcus Walker, Billy Winn NT: Shelby Harris, Zach Kerr, Mike Purcell DE: Derek Wolfe, Dre'Mont Jones, DeShawn Williams SLB: Bradley Chubb, Justin Hollins, Aaron Wallace, Ahmad Gooden WLB: Von Miller, Dekoda Watson, Jeff Holland, Malik Reed ILB: Josey Jewell, Joseph Jones, Keishawn Bierria, Joe Dineen ILB: Todd Davis, Alexander Johnson, Josh Watson LCB: Chris Harris Jr., Isaac Yiadom, Horace Richardson, Alijah Holder RCB: Bryce Callahan, De'Vante Bausby, Linden Stephens, Trey Johnson SS: Kareem Jackson, Su'a Cravens, Trey Marshall, Jamal Carter FS: Justin Simmons, Will Parks, Dymonte Thomas, Shamarko Thomas Special Teams PK: Brandon McManus KO: Brandon McManus P: Colby Wadman H: Colby Wadman LS: Casey Kreiter KR: Devontae Booker, River Cracraft, Brendan Langley, Devontae Jackson PR: River Cracraft, DaeSean Hamilton, Brendan Langley, Kelvin McKnight

‘You’re talking about one of the best dudes I’ve ever met’: Once a menacing safety, Steve Atwater thrives as a mentor By Nicki Jhabvala The Athletic July 30, 2019 One of the most popular players in the Broncos’ locker room retired nearly 20 years ago. He stands 6-foot-3, with the build now of a basketball forward but a presence back in the day that was more akin to a bruising linebacker. Most days, he wears slacks and a polo shirt emblazoned with the team’s logo. Every day, he accessorizes with a smile that belies his storied past. “You meet him and you’re like, ‘No way this dude is who people say he is,’” safety Justin Simmons said. “Then you watch the tape.” Steve Atwater — an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time Super Bowl champion, Broncos Ring of Famer, should-be Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of the most feared tacklers in football history — is a fan development manager for the franchise he spent a decade with as a star safety. It’s a role he’s had for more than two years and one that has evolved far beyond the scope of the marketing department. Since returning to Dove Valley, Atwater has become a mentor to many who were mere toddlers when he retired from the NFL in 2000. Many learned of him through their fathers, or through YouTube, where his fiercest hits are archived. They’ve now heard the sound of his hit on the 260-pound Christian Okoye. They’ve now witnessed that time he almost killed Randy Hilliard and Robert Brooks late in Super Bowl XXXII. And most have come to know the man once referred to as the “Smiling Assassin” as simply Steve, the Hall of Famer (not even qualified with “future”) who doubles as a mentor and father figure. While the Broncos’ safeties seem to have an especially close bond with Atwater, the reverence and friendship extend to nearly everyone on the roster, from the undrafted receivers to veteran defensive linemen. “That’s my guy,” safety Will Parks said. “My dad actually told me about him two months before I got drafted. When I took my pre-draft visit here, he was like, ‘You know Steve Atwater played there.’ I started looking on YouTube and was like, ‘Damn.’ The first thing that popped up was obviously the Christian Okoye hit. Then after that, you see Super Bowls and things of that sort. “Steve’s legacy here is second to none, and I definitely want to have a career like his, but I look up to him for a lot. I take advantage of that. I call Steve. Me and Steve talk about coverages. Me and Steve talk about off-the-field things. Me and Steve talk about life in general. Anything I can grab from him and every time I see him, ‘Hey, Will, what coverage you working on today? What’s your technique?’ I definitely take a lot from him. A whole lot.”

Atwater attends every Broncos practice and game as part of team media, but no media credential could ever correctly identify his position. When the sessions end, several players stop to talk to him about life, about their families, about football, about schemes, about what worked well and what didn’t in the previous game, about the practice that ended minutes earlier. Specifics, however, are left to the coaches. “I just want to transfer some knowledge without telling them something that may confuse them, because coaches are trying to teach one thing and I don’t ever talk about how to play a different coverage and all that,” Atwater said. “I just try to talk about the small things — effort, mindset, how important it is that everybody is on the same page. Some things you learn later in your career. You don’t learn it your first, second or third year, and to be able to share those things is special.” The crazy part is Atwater still looks as if he could still step on a field tomorrow and lay down a menacing hit. In many ways, that’s part of the charm. The person never seemed to match the player, but the dichotomy has created comfort among current players. Atwater is the “greatest dude” who could single-handedly destroy opponents. He’s the family man who just so happened to be one of the most terrorizing competitors. “What I like most about Steve is if you didn’t know football, you wouldn’t know that he’s a Hall of Fame safety,” Simmons said. “He never comes up and is flaunting his knowledge of the game, he never goes out of his way to get on top of you. You know what I mean? He comes up to you and it’s like, ‘Hey, man, how’s the family?’ Everything is family first, and then, ‘How’s the game, what’s going on, what are you seeing, what happened last game?’ “While we’re talking, he’ll just integrate some things that have helped him in his career and he knows is a ‘safety-efficient’ way to do things.” Asked if he had a player who served a similar role for him early in his career, Atwater, of course, cites Dennis Smith, a ninth-year vet when Atwater was a rookie in 1989. Smith, he said, took him under his wing and the two formed one of the most lethal safety duos in league history. But the setup now is different. This isn’t a veteran player mentoring his eventual replacements. This is a legend, naturally becoming more like a relative to a relatively young group. When practice ended last Friday, Atwater stood inside the corridor that led to the team’s locker room and chatted with Kareem Jackson, one of the Broncos’ newest additions. Jackson, a 10th-year defensive back, is listed as a corner but has played primarily at safety in camp. He’s also starting anew, having switched teams for the first time in his career and still adjusting while his wife and young girls travel back and forth from Houston to Denver. “For him to be here on a day-to-day basis to talk to him and talk about the game when he played, and just to kind of hear some of the things that he did when he played is definitely awesome,” Jackson said.

When Atwater roams the sideline after practices, he’s greeted by most, if not all. Last Friday, Kelvin McKnight, an undrafted receiver out of Samford who was only 3 years old when Atwater retired, was one of the last off the practice field. But he still made a beeline for Atwater. “Good work. Keep grinding,” Atwater told him, while quickly shaking his hand. “Don’t take nothing for granted!” Among the biggest beneficiaries of Atwater’s presence has been Su’a Cravens, the former second-round pick who arrived in Denver in 2018. “I knew he was a legend,” Cravens said. “I always watched him and (John) Elway’s highlights. I always knew his famous hit (on Okoye). He reminded me of my cousin, (former NFL safety) David Fulcher, so I’ve always kept up with Steve and when I got to meet him, he was real down to earth and we just connected.” Cravens’ tenuous end in Washington gave way to a fresh start with the Broncos, but he has yet to solidify his place on the field or the roster. The mornings after games last season, it was Atwater at Cravens’ locker, offering encouragement during Cravens’ recovery from a knee injury, listening as Cravens aired frustrations over being benched for the final three games, or simply reminding him to stay positive. “Means a lot. I’m getting tips from a Hall of Fame safety, and he’s the one who keeps my mind straight and making sure I worry about the things I need to worry about and not anything else,” Cravens said. “Every practice, if I had anything bad, he’ll be like, ‘Hey, do better with this. You did good with that.’ Even when I had my pick, he was like, ‘You should’ve taken it to the house.’ He’s kind of like my dad away from home. He’s always there for me.” When Vic Fangio was hired as head coach, he made it clear that for Cravens to secure a roster spot this season, he would have to prove he can play safety. Not a hybrid linebacker/safety. A safety, with the proper technique and decision-making in coverage. Cravens is listed on the Broncos’ website at 6-foot-1, 224 pounds. “(Atwater) always tells me that if I’m gonna be a bigger safety, I have to be quicker than everybody else because they’re going to doubt my speed,” Cravens said. “I’ve done my best; I’ve dropped down to 208 and have lost about 20 pounds.” Over the last two years, as the Broncos have endured back-to-back losing seasons and the once-dominant secondary struggled with mistakes in coverage, poor communication and a scheme that frustrated, Atwater was a go-to for players. Like Cravens, some would occasionally air their grievances. Like Cravens, all would listen.

“Last year after every practice or after a game, we’d come up to him and just be like, ‘What are we doing wrong? What’s going wrong?’” Simmons said. “There are a lot of times defenses are just put in tough situations and you just tell it how it is. But a lot of times there are things we can do to help ourselves, especially from a safety perspective. He always gave his two cents and it always worked. It was never something he’d throw out there to see if it would work. It always worked.” There’s a balancing act to Atwater’s role. He wants to listen and be there for the players, he wants to impart the knowledge he acquired during his 11-year NFL career, but he doesn’t want to overstep. He talks football but doesn’t coach. He checks in on players without being overbearing. He’s there, but he is never smothering. “I think he can do it because he was the player he was, but he’s such a good guy too and has the players’ well-being — those are his intentions all the way,” Fangio said. “He doesn’t overdo it. He doesn’t underdo it. He seems to know how to do it. I’ve seen some guys get in try to do that and be more of a hindrance than a help, and that’s not been the case with him.” Ed Donatell, the Broncos’ defensive coordinator who was the team’s secondary coach for Atwater’s last four years in Denver, calls him a “pillar” of the franchise and “an extension of everything this organization represents.” Atwater has the football résumé to command the respect of players trying to follow his path, but also the reputation of a reliable teammate, a perfectionist of his craft, a caring father and a devoted husband. That he’s now able to reach some of the Broncos’ young players, Donatell said, well that’s just a bonus. “Steve’s the man,” Simmons said. “You’re talking about one of the best dudes I’ve ever met.”

Preseason NFL Power Rankings: A healthy Jimmy Garoppolo makes 49ers the highest climbers from last year By Lindsay Jones The Athletic July 30, 2019 The wait is over. Not for training camp. For power rankings — with GIFs! We know, we missed the GIFs, too. To start, voting will be a bit different here this year. The Athletic expanded its national NFL reporting team this year, and that’s who will be doing the voting. It’s a panel of about 10 reporters and editors who cover the league at large (and are based all over the country), and we hope that will give these rankings a perspective of what is happening coast-to-coast. It was interesting to compare these first 2019 rankings to the final poll of the 2018 regular season, given how many massive changes the league has gone through since. There have been blockbuster trades (such as Antonio Brown and Odell Beckham Jr.), some new quarterback battles, a handful of new head coaches and several surprising general manager moves. There are teams that are starting over (hello, Miami) and teams that are hoping for one more run (we see you, New Orleans). We’ll be here to document all of the ups and downs across the league. On to the rankings! 32. Miami Dolphins (Ended last season: 19) The rebuild begins in Miami with low expectations from our staff. The Dolphins check all of the boxes for the bottom spot in the preseason power rankings: New head coach, check; quarterback competition, check; plenty of unproven players across the roster, check. 31. Arizona Cardinals (Ended last season: 32) An offensive overhaul didn’t do much to change our view of the Cardinals’ place in the NFL hierarchy, but we suppose it’s good news in Glendale, Ariz., that the Cardinals are no longer in the cellar as camp opens … they’ve moved up an entire one spot! We’re super interested to see what the Kliff Kingsbury-Kyler Murray offense looks like in the preseason, but until we see consistent fireworks, expect the Cardinals to be looking up at the rest of the league. 30. Cincinnati Bengals (Ended last season: 25) Nothing like a big late-July free agent signing to get the Bengals fan base fired up. Wait, 2009 first-round draft pick Andre Smith isn’t doing it for you? Us neither. 29. New York Giants (Ended last season: 27) We’ll say this for the Giants: If they’re not going to be good, at least they’re going to be interesting. We’ll be glued to every throw of the Eli Manning versus Daniel Jones battle all of camp.

28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Ended last season: 26) We enjoyed Bruce Arians’ one-year stint as a broadcaster (and can’t believe he didn’t drop any f-bombs on live television), but back on the sideline is where he belongs. And Tampa Bay, with Jameis Winston, feels like a perfect fit. We look at the Bucs right now and don’t see how they’ll fare any better on defense, but the story here isn’t Ndamukong Suh. It’s Arians and if he can save Winston’s career. 27. Detroit Lions (Ended last season: 24) We’ve heard so much about the new Lions culture and offensive overhaul this offseason that we can’t wait to see if anything will actually be different on the field. You diehard Lions fans are optimistic; our voters are unanimously more cautious. 26. Washington Redskins (Ended last season: 21) With apologies to Case Keenum, we really just want to see Dwayne Haskins as soon as possible in this make-or-break season for Jay Gruden. Haskins is the future, as are Landon Collins and Derrius Guice. The sooner we see them the better. 25. Buffalo Bills (Ended last season: 23) If 2018 was about starting over with Josh Allen, 2019 is going to be about growing around the second-year quarterback, and that’s meant plenty of changes to the offensive roster. (And let’s be honest, they are changes that needed to happen, especially at wide receiver and on the offensive line.) 24. Oakland Raiders (Ended last season: 31) The Raiders had one of the most interesting and high-profile offseasons, from the addition of GM Mike Mayock to the Antonio Brown trade and the signing of Trent Brown. Our panel thought the Raiders were active enough to warrant a seven-spot improvement from the end of the 2018 regular season. Now, let’s see if the Raiders can keep climbing. 23. Denver Broncos (Ended last season: 22) Here’s the converse of the Raiders’ offseason effect: The Broncos went through massive changes — a new head coach in Vic Fangio (who will install a new defensive system), a new veteran quarterback in Joe Flacco and a new offense. And yet, virtually no change in how we as a panel view the Broncos — but somehow that seems about right. 22. New York Jets (Ended last season: 30) Whew, what an offseason that was for the Jets. Let’s recap: Todd Bowles lost his job but Mike Maccagnan kept his … at least originally. Adam Gase was hired without personnel power, but became acting GM when Maccagnan was fired about a month after the draft – and after a free-agency spending spree on players such as Le’Veon Bell and C.J. Mosley, Joe Douglas was hired to great acclaim to take over personnel. Got it? Good. Your move, Sam Darnold. 21. Jacksonville Jaguars (Ended last season: 28) If there’s any question how our collective panel felt about Blake Bortles, it’s a seven-spot climb for the Jags after an offseason in which the major move was swapping Bortles for Nick Foles, who will be reunited with new Jags offensive coordinator John DeFilippo. But can the Jags avoid drama again this year? With Yannick Ngakoue holding out to start camp, it doesn’t look like it.

20. Tennessee Titans (Ended last season: 14) Rarely a week went by this offseason without questions from Titans fans about what to expect from Marcus Mariota, and we wish we could say that we’re excited. But mostly we’re holding our breath to see if he can stay healthy and wondering just how many games Ryan Tannehill will end up starting (assuming he, too, can stay healthy.) 19. San Francisco 49ers (Ended last season: 29) Now here’s a team on the rise, at least with our panel. The 49ers climbed 10 spots from the end of 2018. Getting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo back from an ACL injury will do that, I suppose. But there are other reasons to think the 49ers will make a jump in 2019, none bigger than what looks like a ferocious defensive line (especially since Nick Bosa is under contract in time for the start of training camp) and what could be one of the league’s better offensive line units. 18. Carolina Panthers (Ended last season: 17) The Panthers ended the season with a rotating cast of quarterbacks and Cam Newton on injured reserve. They start training camp with Newton on the field, but questions remain about his ability to keep his right shoulder healthy long term. And those questions are the reason for caution about the Panthers here. 17. Houston Texans (Ended last season: 7) How quickly we seemed to forget that the Texans won 11 games last year (including a nine-game win streak) on the way to the AFC South title. But a wild card loss to the Colts and a fairly quiet offseason (at least until the stunning firing of Brian Gaine in June) have the Texans back in the middle of the power rankings pack. 16. Atlanta Falcons (Ended last season: 18) The Falcons spent the offseason trusting everything would be different in 2019 because of their rash of bad injury luck in 2019. And then, on the first day of practice, backup safety J.J. Wilcox tore an ACL. That’s not the kind of injury that will derail a season, but it surely is a reminder that you can’t just assume injuries won’t happen this year because they happened last season. 15. Green Bay Packers (Ended last season: 20) We are cautiously optimistic about the Packers as they begin the Matt LaFleur era. What the offense will look like over the next month will certainly be one of the biggest stories in the NFL. And yet, the Packers start training camp third of four NFC North teams in these rankings. 14. Seattle Seahawks (Ended last season: 8) Another year of change for the Seahawks, who open camp to news starting defensive tackle Jarran Reed will be suspended for the first six games of the season. After trading defensive end Frank Clark this offseason, Seattle has some big questions to answer about its pass rush over the next month. But Russell Wilson’s there, right? It’ll be fine. 13. Baltimore Ravens (Ended last season: 9) Welcome to the Lamar Jackson era. The Ravens will look very different this training camp, with familiar faces such as Joe Flacco and Terrell Suggs off to new teams. Still, the story of Jackson’s development will make the Ravens a must-watch team. Fantasy football players should also pay close attention to Ravens’ camp, as their running backs (hello, Mark Ingram) should be fascinating.

12. Minnesota Vikings (Ended last season: 15) A year ago this time, most of the NFL was looking at the Vikings as a Super Bowl favorite. Not so this year, though our panel sees some improvement from the end of 2018. We like the commitment to improving the offensive line, but we really want to see how much Kirk Cousins can do in his second year in Minnesota. 11. Pittsburgh Steelers (Ended last season: 13) Those sighs of relief you hear are coming from LaTrobe, Pa., where it must be a nice change of pace for the Steelers to show up to training camp with little drama. We are most interested to watch the wide receiver battle play out over the next month to see who will emerge as the top options behind JuJu Smith-Schuster in the post-Brown era. 10. Cleveland Browns (Ended last season: 16) Our panel is clearly excited about the Browns, though we’re not quite all-in yet. But if you would have told us a year ago that the Browns would open this training camp No. 10 in the power rankings with Freddie Kitchens as the head coach, we definitely would have called you crazy. Now it’s time for the Browns to prove that the progress we saw in the second half of last season was just a start of what’s to come. 9. Dallas Cowboys (Ended last season: 10) Training camp is starting and none of Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott or Amari Cooper have new contracts yet. That’s not to say contract drama will become a distraction over the next month or so, but it certainly isn’t a good thing for a team with real playoff chances. 8. Chicago Bears (Ended last season: 4) Are you ready for a month of nonstop kicker updates? We hope so, because there is nothing more important to the Bears right now than finding someone who can consistently make a 43-yard field goal. Competent kicking might be the only thing keeping the Bears from the Top 5 of the preseason poll. 7. Los Angeles Chargers (Ended last season: 5) The Melvin Gordon holdout and the Russell Okung health news put a major dark cloud over what otherwise should have been a very exciting start to training camp, but we still think the Chargers should once again be one of the AFC’s best teams, thanks to Philip Rivers and the pass rush duo of Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. 6. Indianapolis Colts (Ended last season: 11) The Colts closed 2018 strong to clinch a wild card spot and win a road playoff game against division rival Houston, shifting the balance of power in the AFC South heading into 2019. That success felt like it was a year early, and what it means is the Colts won’t sneak up on anyone this season. 5. Philadelphia Eagles (Ended last season: 12) Like the Colts below them, the Eagles are a major preseason climber in large part because of how they closed 2018. The Eagles have the added bonus of the healthy return of franchise quarterback Carson Wentz. The Eagles’ roster looks stacked enough that they shouldn’t just be the NFC East favorite as training camp begins, but a serious Super Bowl contender as well.

4. New Orleans Saints (Ended last season: 1) The Saints owned the top spot in the power rankings for much of the second half of last season, and if not for a blown non-call of pass interference in the NFC championship game, they very well could have started again this year. Instead, they didn’t play in the Super Bowl, and they start training camp with contract drama for star wide receiver Michael Thomas. 3. Los Angeles Rams (Ended last season: 2) We had the defending NFC champion Rams anywhere from No. 2 to No. 6 in the first power rankings of 2019. That’s indicative of both how good the Rams should be if the offense continues to evolve in Year 3 under Sean McVay but also of how many questions they still have, from Todd Gurley’s knee to the massive changes to the offensive line and at several key defensive spots. Bonus points in the rankings, though, for the mere presence of Aaron Donald, who will attend his first training camp since 2016. 2. Kansas City Chiefs (Ended last season: 3) Maybe the Chiefs would have fallen back a spot or two had we voted two weeks ago. But now that we know Tyreek Hill has been cleared to start training camp, it’s hard to imagine a scenario in which the Chiefs aren’t one of the best and most exciting teams in the NFL, and in which Patrick Mahomes isn’t once again in the MVP discussion in December. 1. New England Patriots (Ended last season: 6) The champs are the champs and will remain here until their seemingly annual September swoon. Still, shame on us if we drop the Pats to No. 6 at any point in 2019 when Tom Brady is still quarterbacking and Bill Belichick is still coaching.

Broncos release first depth chart, boasts few surprises By Troy Renck KMGH July 30, 2019 Everything represents a first for Vic Fangio. His first head coaching job, his first training camp, and, as of Monday afternoon, his first depth chart. It featured few surprises , but hinted at the competition for the final roster sports. My quick Denver7 takes on the ordering of players: 1) QB or not QB Drew Lock, pictured, is one of the most popular player on the Broncos. Fans love the backup quarterback. However, Lock is not the backup. Not yet anyway. He is listed third behind Joe Flacco and Kevin Hogan. Lock will need to progress with his work under center and footwork to supplant Hogan. He has plenty of time, and will receive a chunk of reps in the first few preseason games. 2) Inside Job Linebacker Todd Davis strained his calf in the first practice. He should be ready for the season opener at Oakland, and is already riding a stationary bike. However, the Broncos need depth at this position. Alexander Johnson is listed as Davis' backup followed by former CSU standout Josh Watson. The games will be big for Johnson and Watson. At outside linebacker, Justin Hollins is listed as a backup to Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Also, Kareem Jackson is listed as the starting strong safety. He has worked there exclusively in camp, though he will mix in some time at corner this week. 3) Punt, pass, return The Broncos lack of return game has been maddening. At a time when their offense stunk, the special teams provided no boost in yardage. As of now, River Cracraft is listed as the starting punt returner. He should return this week from a strained oblique. DaeSean Hamilton is listed second, but he's dealing with a sore hamstring. Brendan Langley and Kelvin McKnight round out the depth chart. McKnight has popped over the last few days as a receiver. 4) Oline issues The Oline is set. Until it's not. Connor McGovern and Garett Bolles, in my opinion, need strong preseasons. McGovern has struggled with shotgun snaps, and Bolles is being pushed by Elijah Wilikinson at left tackle. McGovern's backup is Jake Brendel, not former local prep star Sam Jones, who is the second-team left guard behind rookie Dalton Risner. 5) Open and shut case The most fierce competition for a roster spot figures to be at receiver. The top three are Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton. Tim Patrick is considered the fourth. Cracraft, Juwann Winfree, Steven Dunbar Jr., Fred Brown, Nick Williams, McKnight and Trinity Benson are all in the mix for scant few spots. Versatility will be key for the fifth and potential sixth receiver. 6) Tight quarters Rookie tight end Noah Fant is making progress, and has been a pleasant surprise with his blocking. You don't leave Iowa without learning how to move a pile, but Fant has looked good in his transition. He's listed second behind Jeff Heuerman and ahead of Troy Fumagalli, Jake Butt and Austin Fort.

7) Run for it The running back depth chart hasn't shifted. It reads: Phillip Lindsay, Royce Freeman, and Devontae Booker. Khalfani Muhammad and Devontae Jackson are fourth and fifth. I believe a fourth back will make it. My sleeper pick is Jackson, a West Georgia star who makes people miss.

Troy Renck's Denver7 thoughts as first preseason game approaches By Troy Renck KMGH July 30, 2019 Vic Fangio requires no filter. A whistle has hung around his neck for 40 years. He knows the game, and is comfortable in his skin as he tries his first head coaching gig on for size. His press conferences typically feature a zinger, intended or not. After Saturday's workout, attended by 21,234 fans, frustration overlapped optimism. The Broncos practiced without three of their top players -- Von Miller and Emmanuel Sanders attended a funeral, and Phillip Lindsay was limited with a pinched nerve in his neck -- and it was the equivalent of The Rolling Stones without Mick Jagger. Lindsay's absence irked Fangio because it seemed avoidable. "Phillip was getting treatment and the guy overdid it. To hell with chiropractors, let's just play football," Fangio blurted. Fair enough. With the first depth chart released today, let's look at where the Broncos stand with the Hall of Fame game approaching on Thursday against Atlanta. My Denver7 observations: 1) The defense is legit The Broncos lived in the past the previous two seasons, using a heavily-reliant man coverage scheme that no longer matched the personnel. Fangio is creative in his looks. Pressure comes from all places, and the use of zone matchups will free cornerbacks Chris Harris Jr. and Bryce Callahan to make plays. Callahan had his foot stepped on Saturday, the same foot he injured last season, but X-rays were negative so he shouldn't miss much time, if any. If the pressure is consistent from Miller and Bradley Chubb -- and having a lead once a while would help -- the takeaways will come in bunches. 2) Von Miller is buying in It's a little thing that can translate to something more meaningful. Von Miller is no longer the last player out for practice during training camp. Last summer, I watched him multiple times walking onto the field after stretch had begun. For death by inches to matter, it must take hold with the team’s best player. That message has been communicated to Miller, and in camp he’s following the plan. 3) Jury out on Flacco Broncos fans are not falling for the banana in the tailpipe anymore. After the failed auditions by Trevor Siemian, Paxton Lynch, Brock Osweiler and Case Keenum, the savvy fans are taking a wait-and-see approach with Joe Flacco. He is better than Keenum. That is obvious, but not saying much since Keenum refused to take chances last season and when he did he threw picks (his 15 ranked second in the league). However, Flacco receives the benefit of the doubt from the players. The gravity of his resume resonates in the locker room. And after a rough first week, Flacco has strung together three straight solid days, and is developing chemistry with second-year receiver Courtland Sutton. Flacco is calmer than a lagoon, a notable quality given the turmoil surrounding this team the past two years. I don’t expect him to play vs. the Falcons, but I do believe Flacco is making progress in a prove-it season for him and this offense.

4) Sanders, Lindsay needed The Broncos offense looks and feels different when Sanders is out there. He stretches the defense, runs precise routes and has sticky fingers in a camp where you’d think Crisco is coating the gloves. All signs point toward Sanders being ready and productive in the season opener at Oakland. As for Lindsay, he creates endless mismatches in space. The Broncos best play in camp is Lindsay lined up wide or receiving the ball on a checkdown. 5) The O-line questions remain Mike Munchak’s job ranks with Rockies pitching coach Steve Foster as the hardest in Denver pro sports. The offensive line lacks depth, draws too many penalties, and for good measure, has a center in Connor McGovern who is struggling with shotgun snaps. Garett Bolles and Ja’Wuan James, who has missed the last few practices with a leg issue, need to start building momentum and consistency, starting with the Seattle game. Dalton Risner, the rookie pictured above, has shown plenty of promise at guard. The Broncos boasted 12 overall penalties on Saturday. That’s too many for a team that ranked 31st last season in that category. Fangio isn’t going to stand for the mistakes. At some point there will be consequences. Keep an eye on left tackle Elijah Wilkinson to challenge for a starting job. 6) Catch and release Receivers not catching passes is the equivalent of a pitcher not throwing strikes. It’s a basic requirement of the job. And it has to improve. The drops aside, there are several intriguing receivers contending for likely one or two spots. The upcoming weeks are critical for Kelvin McKnight, Trinity Benson, Juwann Winfree, River Cracraft, Brendan Langley and recently-added veteran Nick Williams. The player who sticks needs to be a factor on special teams, preferably punt return. The Broncos can no longer being satisfied with someone who just doesn’t fumble. That’s a losing mentality. 7) Tighten it up For the Broncos offense to function at an optimal level, the tight ends must produce. Rookie Noah Fant is gaining traction after a slow start. He needs to blossom into a weapon on third down and in the red zone. Troy Fumagalli looked good early, but has been slowed at times by injury. Jeff Heuerman is a trusted blocker. And the surprise of camp has been former Wyoming standout Austin Fort. With Jake Butt out since July 20 with soreness in his knee, Fort has capitalized. The preference is for one tight end to emerge in the passing game. But aggregate production can work as well if it involves at least eight touchdowns from the group.

Fangio will hold QB Joe Flacco out of Hall of Fame Game By Arnie Stapleton The Associated Press July 30, 2019 Joe Flacco will have to wait another week to make his Denver debut. Broncos coach Vic Fangio said he’ll start last year’s backup, Kevin Hogan, against Atlanta in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio, on Thursday night. He’ll be followed by rookies Drew Lock and Brett Rypien, Fangio said. That means Flacco is slated to make his first appearance for the Broncos on Aug. 8 at Seattle. Hogan had a rough start to training camp before settling in, and Lock is getting a crash course in the pro-style offense after taking only a handful of snaps from under center during his time at the University of Missouri. Although there are major questions facing Fangio as he builds his first roster in Denver, the 61-year-old rookie head coach is keeping the front-line starters on the sideline in Canton, Ohio, where former Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame over the weekend along with team owner Pat Bowlen, who died in June at age 75. The starters, including receiver Emmanuel Sanders, who participated in 11-on-11 drills Monday for the first time as he continues his comeback from a torn Achilles tendon, will get an extended break this week after reporting to camp a week earlier than usual. Following Wednesday’s walkthrough, they won’t practice again until Sunday. With their first preseason game approaching, the Broncos released their initial depth chart Monday, although Fangio cautioned against reading much into it. “I’m going to be honest with you. I wouldn’t read it at all,” Fangio said. “They come in to me and asked me to put this depth chart together. I gave it to the coaches said just put it there. You guys know who’s been working with the 1s. Anything after that is a free-for-all, and if you put any stock in to it, you’re mistaken.” Fangio said the depth chart doesn’t matter until “we cut down to 53,” which isn’t for another month.

Broncos release initial depth chart for 2019 season By Aric DiLalla DenverBroncos.com July 30, 2019 The Broncos released their initial depth chart for the 2019 season on Monday ahead of their preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 1. The team's depth chart is subject to change each week, but it does provide a few answers about where Head Coach Vic Fangio's team stands heading into the first week of the preseason. Some initial observations: Rookie Drew Lock earned more second-team reps during practices last week, but he remains behind Kevin Hogan on the depth chart. Hogan is listed as Joe Flacco's backup, while Lock and Brett Rypien are third and fourth team, respectively. First-round pick Noah Fant has earned second-team honors a few weeks into his NFL career. The Iowa product has taken plenty of reps with Flacco and the first team, and his work was acknowledged on the initial depth chart. Jeff Heuerman is listed as the starter, and Troy Fumagalli is currently the third-string tight end. Fumagalli is followed by Jake Butt, Austin Fort and Bug Howard, sequentially. Both Butt (knee) and Howard (ankle) are designated as injured. Running back Phillip Lindsay has retained his starting status. Royce Freeman is the second-team running back and fourth-year player Devontae Booker is listed as third-team. The starting offensive line — Garett Bolles (LT), Dalton Risner (LG), Connor McGovern (C), Ron Leary (RG), Ja'Wuan James (RT) — has appeared set for weeks. The initial depth chart, though, provides some clarity for the second string. Elijah Wilkinson (LT), Sam Jones (LG), Jake Brendel (C), Don Barclay (RG) and Jake Rodgers (RT) currently hold those positions. Starting linebacker Todd Davis (calf) is listed as injured on the team's initial depth chart, and second-year player Alexander Johnson is listed as his backup. Josh Watson, an undrafted free agent, is listed as the third-team linebacker at that position. Joseph Jones is currently the second-team linebacker behind Josey Jewell. Rookie Justin Hollins is listed as a second-team outside linebacker behind Bradley Chubb, while Dekoda Watson is listed behind Von Miller. Hollins took first-team snaps across from Chubb during Saturday's practice, as both Miller and Watson did not practice. Hollins has also worked at inside linebacker for the Broncos. Rookie Dre'Mont Jones has earned a spot as a second-team defensive end. Four of the team's six 2019 draft picks are listed on the two-deep. Chris Harris Jr. (LCB), Bryce Callahan (RCB), Kareem Jackson (SS), Justin Simmons (FS) comprise the starting secondary. Isaac Yiadom (LCB), De'Vante Bausby (RCB), Su'a Cravens (SS) and Will Parks (FS) are listed as their primary backups.

River Cracraft is listed as a fifth-team wide receiver, but he is currently the team's starting punt returner and backup kick returner. He is backed up at punt returner by DaeSean Hamilton, Brendan Langley and Kelvin McKnight. Devontae Booker is the team's starting kick returner. Emmanuel Sanders, Davis, Butt and Howard are the only players who were given injury designations on the team's initial depth chart.

Kevin Hogan to start Pro Football Hall of Fame game, Drew Lock and Brett Rypien to follow at QB By Aric DiLalla DenverBroncos.com July 30, 2019 When the Broncos’ offense takes its first snaps of the preseason, quarterback Kevin Hogan will guide the unit. Head Coach Vic Fangio announced Monday that Hogan would start the game and would be followed by second-round pick Drew Lock and undrafted rookie Brett Rypien. “Just play good,” said Fangio when asked what he wants to see from Hogan and Lock. “Run the offense. Throw the ball where you’re supposed to throw when it’s a pass, be good on [your] checks and just be efficient.” Starting quarterback Joe Flacco is not expected to play. He and many of the other starters will sit out the opening preseason game, and younger players should receive the bulk of the reps. “I think the guys that benefit the most from it are the young players,” Fangio said of playing five preseason games. “They’re going to get more reps. So many times, I think young players feel with the four-game schedule [that] they don’t get enough opportunities. So they’re going to get more opportunities here and get their play on tape. The good thing about being a football player [is] you don’t have to make a resume. Your resume’s on tape, and every team gets it. Hopefully we’ll be able to do right and give everybody an ample amount of reps.” A couple of starters may “get a handful of plays,” Fangio said. The Broncos' head coach said Connor McGovern could be one starter who falls in that category. The game against the Falcons, though, is just the first step of preparing the Broncos for the regular season. “The main thing that we want to accomplish is get the individual and the team ready for the regular season,” Fangio said. “One of our biggest jobs is to make sure we pick the right 53 guys, so we want to see guys go out and play. There will be times where, as coaches, we may have a good feel for what the other team is going to run, but we’re going to call something that’s hard for us, just to see if guys can handle it. Hard assignment — not hard mentally. Can guys cover receivers? Can guys rush the passer? Can we stop the run? It’s an evaluation tool, mainly. But like anything, once you start playing, that competitiveness gets in you and you want to win the game. But evaluation and getting the team ready is job No. 1.” VISITING THE HALL Before the Broncos head to their hotel on Wednesday night, they’ll stop at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. For many members of the roster, it will be their first trip to see the Hall. “I’m sure all the offensive linemen will want to get their picture with [Offensive Line Coach and Hall of Famer] Mike Munchak and his bust there,” Fangio said. “I think it will be a cool experience for the players.

Most of the players will dive in and experience it. Some guys will say, ‘Why are we even here? I’d rather be at the hotel.’ But that’s the way it goes.” SANDERS RETURNS TO 11-ON-11 For the first time during training camp, wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders participated in 11-on-11 drills. The Broncos have worked Sanders back slowly from an Achilles injury, but his participation in team drills was the latest step in his recovery. “Hopefully you’re going to see him do a little bit more each and every day,” Fangio said. “These next two practices are going to be altered because of the game, but when we come back and get back into training camp mode, hopefully you’ll see him play three to five more plays than you saw today. He’s not going to go from what you saw today to, ‘Oh yeah, he’s ready to go take it all.’ It’s just going to be a progression.” INJURY UPDATES Tight end Jake Butt (knee) missed his seventh consecutive practice, and Fangio said the third-year player’s recovery from his third ACL tear is “unpredictable." “You get concerned,” Fangio said. “Jake keeps having these little potholes. He starts feeling good, moves a little, does something and then it doesn’t feel so good. All things that we’re led to believed are to be expected. The important thing is keeping his spirits up and just see where it develops and where it goes.” Cornerback Bryce Callahan missed Monday’s practice after a teammate stepped on his foot during Saturday’s practice. He exited that session early and remained out after the team’s day off. Fangio, though, said Callahan is OK. Several players returned to practice Monday, including running back Phillip Lindsay, who sat out most of Saturday’s practice after a chiropractic visit gone wrong. Fangio said Lindsay is now fine, but that he “will not be going to any more” appointments at the chiropractor’s office. Wide receiver River Cracraft (muscle) and linebacker Dekoda Watson (lower leg) both participated on Monday. Cracraft participated in part of practice before removing his shoulder pads. Wide receiver DaeSean Hamilton (hamstring), linebacker Todd Davis (calf), offensive lineman Jake Rodgers (calf), tackle Ja’Wuan James (lower-leg bruise) and tight end Bug Howard (ankle) also remained out. DON’T READ INTO IT The Broncos’ released their initial depth chart for the season on Monday, but Fangio cautioned reporters from trying to garner any information from it. “You guys know who’s been working with the [first team], and after that, it’s a free for all,” Fangio said. “If you put any stock into it, you’re mistaken.”

Broncos Day 10 Camp report: Ramping up for the preseason opener By Andrew Mason DenverBroncos.com July 30, 2019 Late in Monday's practice, with the offense in a four-minute drill scenario against a defense trying to prevent a first down, penalties began to mount. Flags flew on three consecutive snaps -- two for pre-snap infractions, and one for what an official on the field signaled as a holding penalty. But after the session, Head Coach Vic Fangio revealed that the flags were not what they appeared to be. "The last two penalties were planned by me. I told them to do that," said Fangio, who added that the reason why he called for the penalties was a "code secret." "Some of them that looked like penalties, they were actually clean plays, the center snapped the ball before he was supposed to. They're bad plays, but they aren't penalties. But the quarterback is going to get clobbered." While the timing on some snaps needed refinement, the accuracy of shotgun snaps, which was an issue last week, improved, but was not perfect. One team-period play saw a low Connor McGovern snap that Joe Flacco quickly recovered and threw away. There was also a mistimed under-center snap with the No. 3 offense. Still, there has been growth, although McGovern may be one of the first-teamers who makes an appearance in Thursday's preseason opener with Atlanta. "[McGovern] may play a little bit on Thursday, but if you noticed at the stadium practice the other day, that was his best day for that," Fangio said. "And most of the snap issues that we've had have been in the [shot]gun." BUTT STILL SIDELINED With few starters expected to play Thursday, the game could be a showcase for young tight ends Noah Fant, Troy Fumagalli, Austin Fort and Moral Stephens, none of whom have played a preseason snap. Tight end Jake Butt, meanwhile, remains on the sideline as he deals with a knee injury. Bug Howard is also still out with an ankle injury. Fangio admitted that he is "concerned" about Butt's health. "Jake keeps having these little potholes. He starts feeling good, moves a little, does something, and then it doesn't feel so good," Fangio said. "All things that we’re led to believe that are to be expected. "The important thing is keeping his spirits and seeing where he develops and where it goes. It's unpredictable."

PRACTICE NOTES ... The Broncos went into the Pat Bowlen Fieldhouse to start the practice, as the lightning-warning alarm sounded within a half-hour of the session's start. The team returned to their outdoor fields after individual-period work. ... Running back Phillip Lindsay returned to practice after sitting out Saturday's work following a trip to the chiropractor in which "the guy overdid it," as Fangio said. Lindsay had a solid day, punctuated by a reception from Joe Flacco that he turned into a long gain as he followed the block of Dalton Risner on Justin Hollins to move upfield. ... Second-year offensive lineman Sam Jones helped spring Devontae Jackson for a lengthy run by knocking edge rusher Jeff Holland to the ground during the first team period of the day. ... Safety Su'a Cravens had one of his best plays against the run during a team period Monday, reading a handoff from Drew Lock to Khalfani Muhammad well and moving forward to blow up the sweep in the backfield. ... Safety Justin Simmons continued his summer of picks by intercepting Brett Rypien during a team period, capitalizing off pressure from Von Miller and Bradley Chubb that forced an errant pass in the direction of Nick Williams. ... Linebacker Joe Jones punctuated his day with an interception of Lock in a seven-on-seven period. Lock scanned the field and threw to Muhammad in the left flat, but Jones read his eyes perfectly and jumped in front of the pass for what could have been a touchdown in game conditions. However, Muhammad also got the better of Jones, turning upfield for a long catch-and-run from Flacco during a team period. ... Safety Trey Marshall prevented a touchdown during a seven-on-seven red-zone period, lunging to break up a pass from Lock to Jeff Heuerman. He also got a hand on a pass from Lock to Fumagalli to prevent a completion. ... Wide receiver Courtland Sutton made a one-handed catch of a Flacco pass that was behind him on a crossing route. ... Outside linebacker Malik Reed was active again, with multiple pressures off the edge -- including two on back-to-back plays -- and a pass defensed when he dropped into coverage on Steven Dunbar Jr., reaching out to prevent a completion from Rypien.

Broncos Training Camp Observations: A blossoming connection By Ryan Kroenigsberg BSN Denver July 30, 2019 As Broncos players began to make their way onto the field for Monday afternoon’s practice, the sound of a loud weather horn filled the air at the UC Health Training Center. With lightning in the area, the team was forced to move the beginning of practice into the Pat Bowlen Field house, meaning fans hoping to catch the practice were turned away. The good news for you, though, if you were one of those fans, or if you just want to know what happened, is that BSN Denver was on hand for the entirety of the practice—most of which took place outside. Here’s what went down. A Blossoming Connection If there was ever a reason to find a silver lining in the fact that Emmanuel Sanders wasn’t going to be a full participant in camp, it was the added experience for second-year receiver Courtland Sutton. It’s been highly publicized that Sutton did not excel last season when he was forced to be the team’s No. 1 option, and this would be a chance for him to get more work in that area. While it wasn’t pretty early, as we have now reached double-digit training camp practices, the connection between Sutton and starting quarterback Joe Flacco has become evident. It started on Friday, when Flacco and Sutton finally connected on a play-action deep post, a play they had been just missing up until that point. On Saturday, they went back to it again, and Sutton drew a pass interference call on Chris Harris Jr. after Flacco tossed the rock 60 yards off of his back foot. After a day off on Sunday, the budding connection was back on the field on Monday, and they went back to their bread and butter. On what turned out to be the play of the day, Flacco faked a handoff and saw Sutton with a step deep down the field. The quarterback uncorked it and hit his man perfectly in stride, right before safety Kareem Jackson could get there to break it up. As Sutton and Jackson collided, the receiver fell into the endzone for a 55-yard touchdown. While the big touchdowns are encouraging, what’s equally nice to see is the two connecting in the intermediate areas, something that has been a focus for Sutton this offseason. Early on, in 7-on-7 drills, Flacco hit Sutton on three consecutive attempts in those areas, including a perfectly thrown ball over the linebacker and under the corner on the sideline.

Later, Flacco found his current top receiver on a crossing route, and even though he left the ball a bit behind him, Sutton reached back while floating through the air and snagged the ball one-handed, making him the owner of the top two plays of the day. With Emmanuel Sanders slowly but surely working back, the chemistry built between Flacco and Sutton should prove to be extremely valuable throughout the season. Another Step for Sanders At the beginning of camp, it was only individual work for the Broncos projected No. 1 receiver, Emmanuel Sanders. Last week, he took the step up to 7-on-7 work. On Monday, he took the biggest step of all, joining the team in 11-on-11 for the first time all camp. On the very first pass of the day in the scrimmage-style setting, Sanders lined up inside and ran a bit of a wheel route up the right sideline, getting in behind the coverage of one Chris Harris Jr. Unfortunately—as a contrast to the chemistry with Sutton—Flacco just barely overthrew the ball, resulting in an incompletion. The good news for the two is that there are still nine practices remaining in camp, just about as many as it took for Flacco and Sutton to get rolling, and the plan is only to get Sanders more and more work. “Hopefully you’re going to see him do a little bit more each and every day,” head coach Vic Fangio said after practice. “These next two practices are going to be altered because of the game, but when we come back and get back in the training-camp mode, hopefully, you’ll see him play three to five more plays than you saw today. He’s not going to go from what you saw today to, ‘Alright, he’s ready to go take it all.’ It’s just going to be a progression.” Sanders’ progression has been one of the most positive signs of camp. Mixing it Up While we’ve seen it quite a bit thus far in training camp, Monday’s practice featured the most unbalanced 11-on-11 work that we’ve seen. We saw the second and third-team offense go up against the first-team defense, and vice versa, and even saw fourth-string QB Brett Rypien get a chance against Fangio’s vaunted first unit. Earlier in camp, Vic Fangio explained why he likes to do that. “Just to mix it up, so they’re going against different guys,” he explained. “It challenges the twos and the ones.” As you might imagine, when matched up against a line full of backups, Bradley Chubb and Von Miller absolutely dominated. What makes it impressive, though, is that Miller admitted after practice that he’s not even showing those guys his “A” moves. “I just try to work on stuff that I don’t normally do,” he explained. “I just try to go to the B move and the C move. I try to work on things that I wouldn’t say that I’m not necessarily good at, but I try to work on my game that I don’t normally play at. So, that’s when I work on my moves, and that’s when I really just work on cross-chop.”

Also of note, working with the second team while going up against the first-team offense, Jeff Holland had a rush where he absolutely blew by Elijah Wilkinson at right tackle and “sacked” Joe Flacco. Other Notes DaeSean Hamilton, Bryce Callahan, Todd Davis, Jake Rodgers, Ja’Wuan James, Jake Butt and Bug Howard did not partake in the practice. The offense continued to stay on a steady pace of solid practices after struggling for the entirety of the first week of camp. Vic Fangio said Kevin Hogan will start the Hall of Fame game on Thursday, followed by Drew Lock and then Brett Rypien. While he says “most” of the starters will not play in the game, Fangio said, “There might be a couple of guys that get a handful of plays.” After a solid outing on Saturday, Connor McGovern had another bad snap on the day, resulting in more frustrated body language from Joe Flacco. Fangio said McGovern may be one of the starters who will play on Thursday. After practice, Fangio admitted there is concern with Jake Butt. “You get concerned obviously,” he said. “Jake keeps having these little potholes. He starts feeling good, moves a little, does something and then it doesn’t feel so good… The important thing is keeping his spirits up and just see where it develops and where it goes. It’s unpredictable.” Phillip Lindsay was back at practice after missing Saturday due to an “overdone” chiropractic treatment. Of the chiropractor, Fangio said he “will not be going anymore.”

The five biggest takeaways from the first half of Broncos Training Camp By Zac Stevens BSN Denver July 30, 2019 Oh how time flies when football is on the field. On Monday, the Broncos held their tenth training camp practice, putting them over the halfway hump of camp. BSN Denver has been on hand for every second of the nearly 30 hours of football that have been played under the hot summer sun. Here’s the good, bad and the ugly from the first two weeks of training camp. SLOWLY BUT SURELY When Vic Fangio admits there’s reason for concern, then there’s reason for concern. That’s precisely what he admitted one week into camp regarding the offense. Leading up to that moment, the most encouraging part of the offense was Phillip Lindsay and Emmanuel Sanders’ health. Outside of that, however, there wasn’t too much to be pleased with. Drops, overthrows, and, most concerning, a struggling offensive line, haunted Denver’s offense. But whether it was Vic’s public call of concern or just fate, the offense started to click just as the weekend approached. As Joe Flacco got more time, he started to connect with his receivers, who held onto the ball. The play-action game opened up, and Flacco began to truly build a connection with Courtland Sutton deep. But it still wasn’t perfect. In fact, as the offense slowly started to build steam, penalties began to build up and be their biggest enemy. “We’ve definitely made some strides. Where we haven’t is in the penalties,” Fangio said after Saturday’s practice unprompted. “This team last year was 31st in the NFL in penalties called. That’s got to stop. We’ve got to improve that.” That flags didn’t stop on Monday, either. It certainly hasn’t been perfect, but there’s been progress from the offense as training camp has unfolded. There’s over one month for that progress to continue before the team’s first game. PASS RUSH ON POINT The Broncos are built on their pass rush. Unsurprisingly, that’s certainly been evident through the first 10 practices of camp.

Whether it’s the first-team unit, the second-team unit or even deeper on the depth chart, the Broncos’ quarterbacks have been uncomfortable day in and day out. But most importantly, Von Miller, Bradley Chubb and the first-team front seven look lethal. Multiple times in each and every practice, it’s been hard to distinguish if Chubb or Von was the first to the quarterback as they both essentially meet right in Flacco’s lap. The cherry on top has been the interior pass rush, specifically from Derek Wolfe time and time again, forcing the quarterbacks to be on the run on way too many plays. An unexpected bright spot has been DeMarcus Walker, who has recorded multiple sacks going up against the first-team offensive line. Sure, it could be due to a shaky offensive line, but the defense can only tear apart what’s put in front of them. And they’ve done plenty of damage early in camp. DREW LOCKING IN According to Fangio, Drew Lock started training camp not as a quarterback, but as a hard-throwing pitcher learning how to pitch. In one week’s time, not only has he become a quarterback, he’s “doing well,” “getting better,” and “improving,” all compliments by Fangio, who has told it how he sees it to begin camp. More often than not, unsurprising to those who have watched the rookie play, the 6-foot-4, 228-pound signal caller has had the throw of the day. Those plays have included throwing the ball 50-plus yards with a flick of the wrist, perfectly placed sidearm rockets on the run with a defender barreling down on him and touch passes where only his receiver could catch the ball. However, what’s been even more impressive is how consistently safe Lock’s been with the ball. On many days of camp, the “gunslinger,” as many have labeled him, has been turnover free and made the safest plays of all of the quarterbacks on the roster. This, not the flashy plays, will impress the organization the most moving forward. On Monday, Lock continued his rise as he took a significant number of second-team reps. While he’s listed as the third quarterback on the depth chart released on Monday, and will play after Kevin Hogan in the Hall of Fame game on Thursday night, he’s trending in the right direction quickly. The future, as John Elway deemed him, is doing everything to prove that he can live up to that calling. OH SNAP! As the offense has had their ups and downs, one aspect that’s remained fairly consistent is too many bad shotgun snaps from Connor McGovern to Flacco. Outside of Saturday’s practice at the stadium, which Fangio deemed “excellent,” bad snaps have derailed the offense at least one time each practice.

Poor snaps that arrive above the knees aren’t ideal, but most of the time don’t kill a play. It’s the snaps below that knees that force the quarterback to take his eyes off the play that absolutely crush an offense. Unfortunately, those have been the type of bad snaps that have taken place dating back to when McGovern took over for Matt Paradis midway through last year, and have persisted in camp. On multiple occasions, the snaps have been so low and away, the defense has been the first to recover them, often scooping and scoring them for six. On Monday, one shotgun snap didn’t even make it to Flacco’s feet. Instead of making a play to recover it, the 6-foot-6 veteran quarterback turned his back and slowly walked away from the play, which quickly was blown dead. Fangio has stated multiple times poor snaps are unacceptable, need to be “perfect” soon and the only way to improve them is by more practice. While most of the starters won’t play on Thursday in the Hall of Fame game, McGovern might so he can get more reps and practice, according to Fangio. THE MANGIO Since Vic took over the team in January, there’s been no doubt who’s in charge. Training camp has only cemented that. In the locker room, Fangio isn’t just respected, but his players have completely bought into his message. When the coach speaks, his players listen. It seems like a no-brainer, but that hasn’t always been the case the last few years. Rolling in his gray crewneck sweatshirt on the daily, his defensive players have without a doubt bought into their new leader as early indications would strongly suggest the Vic-Fangio bump is the real deal. His defense is ballin’—from the front-seven to the backend. Fangio’s also been incredibly impressive with the media—from charming with his stories of his three decades of experience to saying things every day that just make sense. It’s clear Vic is comfortable in his own skin. So far, that’s made him the man in town.

Broncos first depth chart of 2019 is full of intrigue By James Merilatt 104.3 The Fan July 30, 2019 Monday brought a lot of excitement at Broncos training camp. In what has turned into a big “news” day on an annual basis, the team released its first depth chart of the season. And everyone was clamoring to get a look. The reaction was reminiscent of Navin R. Johnson in “The Jerk.” In that 1979 comedy, Steve Martin’s character can’t control his excitement when the whitepages arrive; he’s excited to see his name in print. “The new phonebooks are here! The new phonebooks are here!” That pretty much sums up the scene at the UCHealth Training Center this morning. Mass hysteria has ensued. But the calm after the storm provides a chance to digest what’s on the first official breakdown of the Broncos roster. And it’s pretty revealing. Here are the five most-interesting takeaways from the first depth chart of 2019: 1. Jeff Heuerman is listed as the starting tight end – After signing a two-year, $9-million contract in the offseason, it was obvious that the Broncos had faith in the fourth-year player. But they also selected Noah Fant in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, signaling that they were looking for more at the position. As of right now, the veteran has held off the rookie. 2. Kevin Hogan is the backup quarterback – For some reason, the Broncos continue to insist that the fourth-year signal caller is the best option if Joe Flacco goes down with an injury. Nothing that has occurred thus far during training camp, however, would support that notion, as rookie Drew Lock has clearly been the second-best quarterback through the first 10 practices. 3. Brendan Langley’s transition to wideout isn’t going well – After flaming out as a cornerback, the Broncos third-round pick in 2017 switched to the other side of the ball during the offseason. It hasn’t increased his chances of making the roster, as the wide receiver is currently listed as fifth-string, behind Fred Brown and Trinity Benson. 4. Jake Brendel is the backup center – While that position might not normally be very exciting, there is reason to consider who is the next man up in this year’s camp. Why? Because Connor McGovern has had repeated issues with bad snaps during practice, something that Vic Fangio has deemed unacceptable. If he can’t fix the problem, the veteran who spent the past three seasons in Miami might get a chance to prove what he can do. 5. Alexander Johnson is listed behind Todd Davis – Middle linebacker is a hotly contested position at camp this year, with multiple players vying for the backup spots behind Davis and Josey Jewell. With Davis injured on day one of practice, that’s created a chance for Johnson, Josh Watson, Joseph Jones and others to run with the ones. Right now, it looks like Johnson has impressed the most.

Bonus. The Broncos have no idea who is going to return kicks or punts this season – Right now, Devontae Booker is the No. 1 kick returner, while River Cracraft is the top punt returner. But Brendan Langley, DaeSean Hamilton, Devontae Jackson and Kelvin McKnight are listed behind them in various orders, even though they aren’t the only ones who could see action in these roles on Thursday against Atlanta. The first depth chart of the season didn’t have any shocking developments; there was nothing like when Mike Shanahan decided to elevate rookie Mike Bell to the No. 1 spot at running back, at a time when that almost assured he’d rush for 1,000 yards. But there were bits and pieces of interesting info. Based on the latest news, playing time in the Hall of Fame Game can be gauged. And certain players will get the first shot at impressing coaches in an effort to move up the charts.

Is Devontae Booker a lock for the Broncos 53-man roster? By Cecil Lammey 104.3 The Fan July 30, 2019 The Broncos are going to be a run-heavy team in 2019. That means they’re going to need a deep and talented running back corps. They certainly have a ton of talent at the top with Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman, but what about the players behind them? Devontae Booker is the next back up, but this once favorite of the former coaching staff is going to get pushed for his spot on the roster in training camp. A crop of young backs are showing flashes. Is Booker a lock for the 53-man roster? Let’s examine his prospects. *** Unfulfilled Promise The Broncos drafted Booker in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft to replace then-starter C.J. Anderson. Booker made some headlines before training camp as a rookie when he stated that he was not there to carry pads but to take someone’s job. Anderson was unfazed by the rookie’s statement, but it certainly put him under the spotlight as a rookie who was supposed to be a fine running back. Instead of taking Anderson’s job, Booker played primarily as a backup until the team lost Anderson to a knee injury after seven games. Booker then was in position to take over as the starter and he did – but he did not impress. The rookie was later replaced as the starter by veteran addition Justin Forsett and Booker finished his 2016 season with 612 yards rushing and only 3.5 yards per carry. After that season, Booker missed some time due to injury and never got another opportunity to start. He was supposed to be better than this, but Booker has disappointed as a running back. Booker had the former coaching staff on his side, as he was a favorite of former head coach Vance Joseph. That’s not the case now with Vic Fangio in charge. Booker has lost his biggest supporter on the staff and will have to work hard to make a positive impression on the new staff. *** Receiving Threat While Booker struggles as a runner, he can stand out as a receiver out of the backfield. During the last three seasons, Booker has caught at least 30 passes each year. While he struggles as a runner, Booker has made plays as a receiver out of the backfield.

He has natural hands and I would describe his receiving ability as excellent. Booker is an excellent option when the quarterback needs to find a relief-valve receiver under pressure. He does a good job of plucking passes out of the air and quickly brings the ball into his frame as to not get careless with the ball’s security. Booker is a swift player who is tough to bring down when he gets a head of steam – and we’ve even seen him leap over defenders after making a catch on a swing pass. While he is not a player to trust as a runner, Booker is arguably the best receiving back on the Broncos roster. Booker is a big back, but he does not work well when having to make quick decisions in a zone-blocking system. He is a “power gap” runner, meaning he will follow a blocking path and can hit the hole hard when he knows where to go. Booker struggles when faced with the decisions a back must contend with when choosing where to go in a zone system. A back must decide whether to “bend, bang or bounce” in the system the Broncos are implementing this year under Rich Scangarello. That’s just a poor fit for Booker and something that could cost him a spot on the final roster. *** Cheaper Options Booker is in the final year of his rookie contract and has a cap hit around $850,000 this season. There is only $95,000 left in dead money on his deal. That’s not a huge number to spend on a 27-year-old running back, but the Broncos could go cheaper (and younger) with a couple of the young backs behind him. Khalfani Muhammad is likely next on the depth chart behind Booker and he’s the biggest threat to take over as the Broncos No. 3 running back. Muhammad was a seventh-round pick for the Titans in the 2017 NFL Draft. Coming out of Cal, Muhammad was known for his agility and quickness in the open field – plus his legitimate sprinter’s speed. Muhammad is certainly fast, but he’s a much smaller back than Booker. While Booker checks in around 219 pounds, Muhammad is listed at 175 pounds. Muhammad is much faster and more adept at running between the tackles, despite his size. If he proves himself in pass protection, then perhaps the team could keep him over Booker. Devontae Jackson was one of my favorite undrafted free agents that the Broncos picked up this offseason. Coming out of West Georgia, Jackson was fun to watch on film because he is a big play waiting to happen any time he touches the ball. Like Muhammad, Jackson is a smaller back at 175 pounds. While Muhammad does a good job of running inside, Jackson has a tendency to want to break every run to the outside as soon as he touches the ball. Jackson needs to show better discipline when pressing the hole inside. However, he does a good job as a return man and might find a way onto the final roster due to his special teams ability – perhaps at the cost of Booker’s spot on the roster. ***

Summary The Broncos backup running back position is wide open only a few days into training camp. Booker is working as the No. 3 running back, but not exclusively. His best work for the Broncos has come as a receiver out of the backfield and that’s once again the case in camp. Booker is showing well as a receiving back, but that might not be enough to keep him on the roster. It’s especially going to be difficult for him now because he’s no longer a favorite of the coaching staff. These new coaches likely don’t dislike Booker, but they are not tied to him or intrigued by him the way the last staff was. Muhammad is a better runner than Booker and he’s a good receiver, too. He’s not an excellent receiver like Booker, but it’s not like Muhammad is a liability as a pass catcher. Jackson is not as good of a runner as Muhammad, but his ability as a return man is better than any other back he’s competing with. Booker has not performed up to expectations and might be running out of time in his Broncos career. If the other backs on the roster look better in camp and the preseason, then Booker could find himself looking for work in the near future.

Criticism of Broncos tight end Noah Fant is way off base By James Merilatt 104.3 The Fan July 30, 2019 When the Broncos selected Noah Fant in the first round of April’s NFL Draft, the scouting reports about the tight end out of Iowa were all pretty consistent. He has a big frame (6-foot-4, 250 pounds), which will make him a giant target, especially in the red zone. And he has great speed (4.5 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the scouting combine), which will allow him to get vertical in the passing game and stretch the field for the offense. Through the first nine practices of training camp, that’s exactly what has been on display. Whether Fant is running with the ones, twos or threes, he’s consistently demonstrating those skills. In red-zone drills, Fant gets open, provides a big target for whichever quarterback is throwing the ball and is able to use his body to keep defenders away from the football. He’s been a bit of a touchdown machine in those situations. And in 7-on-7 or team sessions, Fant has been able to beat defenders down the field consistently. Three days in a row, he worked a wheel route to the outside and was open deep down the sideline, bringing something to the passing attack that the other tight ends on the roster simply can’t. All that said, the reports from training camp are leaning toward the negative side of things when it comes to the Broncos rookie. For the most part, the media gathered at the UCHealth Training Center is busy shooting holes in Fant’s game. First, they were upset that Emmanuel Sanders and Courtland Sutton had to tell the tight end to “finish” plays. Two days in a row, a veteran on Denver’s roster was reminding the rookie that things don’t end when he catches the ball or is “tackled” by a defender; instead, he needed to take the ball and sprint toward the end zone after every grab. Then, they were aghast that Fant would suggest in an interview that he doesn’t feel any pressure as a first-round pick. This type of laissez-faire attitude was either a sign of arrogance or disinterest, showing that the tight end believed he was too good to fail or didn’t really care if he did. Either way, that approach wasn’t going to fly. And finally, there were reports that the rookie was out of shape. He had been spotted taking a knee in between drills, asking for more water than other players at his position and sometimes looking a little lethargic during practice. On or off the record, no one within the Broncos suggested this was true, but the body-language experts were reading the signs. All of it is poppycock. Should Fant do a better job of finishing plays? Perhaps. But is it a big deal that he’s not? Nope. It’s not uncommon for veterans to remind rookies about the new way of doing things, letting them know how things are done in the pros versus in college. So it wasn’t shocking that Sanders and Sutton were chirping at the newbie, telling him it was time to break whatever practice habits he had developed as a Hawkeye.

Ever since, Fant has done a great job of finishing plays. He’s taken their advice and applied it, which is all anyone can ask of any player. Did the rookie set him up for criticism by saying he didn’t feel any pressure on the eve of his first training camp? Not if his entire quote is taken into account. “I don’t really feel pressure,” Fant said in an article posted by 9News. “I feel like my expectations for myself are pretty high. I feel like when my expectations for myself exceed everyone else’s, I don’t really feel pressure from everyone else. But that’s back by my work ethic and what I do out here every day and pushing myself.” What’s wrong with those comments? He demands more of himself than outsiders, so he doesn’t feel pressure to live up to their standards; he’s already trying to live up to his own. What was Fant supposed to say? That he’s trembling in fear because people expect a lot out of him as a first-round pick? That would’ve made people feel better about the first-year player? Fant’s response was dead on. Any other interpretation is simply trying to make something out of nothing. Which leads to the notion that the rookie is out of shape. Thus far in practice, no one has seen him tap out of a rep; in fact, he’s on the field all the time, taking snaps with seemingly every group at one point or another. In addition, there’s been no indication from Vic Fangio or anyone else that Fant’s conditioning has been a problem; given that the Broncos head coach is pretty blunt, it seems like he would’ve mentioned it if it was bothering him. It’s really nitpicking to get worked up about a player taking a knee or drinking water during a practice in 95-degree heat. Everyone in attendance is sweltering, so it stands to reason that a player seeing action with the ones, twos or threes might be a little gassed and/or parched. To suggest that Fant is out of shape is a bit unfair. Is he in tip-top condition? Maybe. Maybe not. But until he starts missing reps because he’s too winded to continue, it’s probably best to give the rookie the benefit of the doubt. Thus far in camp, Fant has been everything he was billed to be. While he has work to do in order to become a great tight end in the league, that was certainly expected; no one ever suggested that he was a finished product. But in fact, he’s actually been better than advertised. Not only does he possess the skills that were touted on draft night, but he’s also a heckuva lot better blocker than anyone anticipated. Offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello went out of his way to tell the media that fact early last week. So take the reports from Dove Valley with a grain of salt. Noah Fant is doing just fine, thank you. Any reports to the contrary are highly questionable.

2019 NFL season: Patrick Peterson leads top 10 cornerbacks By DeAngelo Hall NFL.com July 30, 2019 NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2019" airs daily at 9 p.m. ET, unveiling a new set of 10 players in each episode. In Episode 8 on Monday night, a pair of cornerbacks -- Jalen Ramsey and Stephon Gilmore -- were revealed at Nos. 27 and 22, respectively. With that in mind, NFL Network analyst and former Pro Bowl defensive back DeAngelo Hall reveals his own ranking of the league's top 10 cornerbacks. What do I value in an NFL cornerback? My answer might shock you. I don't care if a guy gives up touchdowns. After all, the NFL is an offensive league. What I look for is whether the corner can consistently affect plays, despite the ups and downs of a game and season. I also care about turnovers, any which way you can get them -- fumble recoveries, picks and the return yardage on those plays. All of that is taken into account in my list. Oh, and there's nothing better than a cornerback who loves to mix it up and be physical every now and then. With that said, here are my top 10 players at the position heading into the 2019 season: 1 Patrick Peterson CB Cardinals He sits at the top of my list for all the same reasons he's been voted to eight consecutive Pro Bowls. Peterson, who is dominating much in the same way Darrelle Revis did before him, excels in man coverage and is also great in zone defense. Over the past few seasons, there hasn't been much that offenses (or receivers, for that matter) could do to get the CB1 off his game. And as with all great cornerbacks, he's seeing fewer targets thrown to his side of the field -- but he often makes opponents regret it when they do test him. However, I can't put Peterson in this spot without addressing the six-game suspension he'll serve for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy, which will make him ineligible for this season's Pro Bowl and snap his streak of consecutive selections to the game at eight. ( Side note: The only other player to be selected to each of the last eight Pro Bowls is Tom Brady.) Some may think Peterson should be lower on this list because he's missing six games, but his superb production and incomparable impact keep him at the top. 2 Jalen Ramsey CB Jaguars When I watched Ramsey during his college career at Florida State, I remember thinking, Dang, this kid is going to be a great free safety in the NFL. Man, was I wrong. He's a lockdown corner who is a combination of Champ Bailey and Richard Sherman. (Not bad, right?!) I know Bailey and Sherman are completely different cornerbacks when it comes to playing the position, but Ramsey's ideal mix of length, athleticism

and speed allows him to run with any receiver on the field. Ramsey has allowed the third-lowest completion percentage (52.9) and fourth-lowest passer rating (71.6) in coverage among 98 cornerbacks with at least 200 targets since 2016, per Pro Football Focus. Perhaps my favorite thing about this kid: Not only does he call his opponent out before a game, but he backs it up with his play and THEN tells you about it after the game. (And he'll give at least some credit when credit is due, too.) As a former trash talker early in my career, I love Ramsey's confidence and swag. Ramsey, who fell off a bit last season from his dominant play in 2017, showed some signs of maturity over the offseason and said he's going to cut back on the talk. But I know how hard it is to shut up when you love to talk! The Jags star is seeking a new contract, so I'm excited to see what he can do in 2019.

3 Stephon Gilmore CB Patriots As the years go by, I fall more and more in love with Gilmore's game. He's a big-bodied corner who is fast but doesn't rely solely on his speed. He's rarely flashy -- although that crucial interception in the Super Bowl was pretty spectacular (see the video above). He's more of a smooth technician who is a monster in coverage. The veteran is so good at disrupting the receiver by using his hands and punching the ball out, even when it looks like a sure reception. 4 Xavien Howard CB Dolphins Despite playing in just 12 games last season, Howard tied for the league lead in interceptions (seven) and was rewarded with a five-year, $76.5 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL in terms of total value and average value per year. He's one of the best ballhawks in the league right now, and the fact that he allowed a league-low 62.6 passer rating in coverage among CBs targeted at least 50 times speaks volumes about his game. Howard is a leader and tone-setter for a young Dolphins defense looking to improve on last season's No. 29 overall ranking. 5 Byron Jones CB Cowboys It's common to see a player transition from cornerback to safety, but rarely do you see someone transition from safety to cornerback. Jones, who began his career as a corner, returned to the position last season after playing safety in 2016 and '17. The result? He manned the island in Dallas and earned the seventh-highest coverage grade among CBs with 500 or more snaps in 2018, per Pro Football Focus. His physicality and ability to blanket receivers shined. In fact, Jones wasn't targeted at all during the Cowboys' Week 4 win over the Lions -- something that proves you have arrived as a lockdown corner.

6 Darius Slay CB Lions The two-time Pro Bowl selectee has great ball skills and loves to compete. A complete cornerback, Slay didn't get close to his 2017 INT mark (eight, tied for the league lead) as teams threw his way less than they did in '17, though he still managed to record three picks and finished fourth in the league in passes defensed with 20. Slay deserves to get the new contract he's seeking based on his performance the last few seasons. 7 Kyle Fuller CB Bears I was a teammate of Vincent Fuller, Kyle's oldest brother, at Virginia Tech, so I have watched all the Fullers grow up and play the game. Kyle has developed into a complete player since entering the league in 2014, something the rival Packers took note of last offseason, when they signed him to an offer sheet after the Bears placed the transition tag on him. Chicago ended up matching Green Bay's offer, and I'd imagine the Bears are happy with that decision, as Fuller was a first-team All-Pro selectee in 2018. He is physical, good in press coverage and has great ball skills. He's a key part of what I believe is the NFL's best secondary and defense. 8 Denzel Ward CB Browns I should've known this kid could play, given the pedigree of cornerbacks coming out of Ward's school -- Ohio State -- in recent years. I spoke with him at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine and heard in his voice everything I needed to know -- he clearly loves the game and was born to play the position. Like other analysts, I questioned the Browns' decision to take Ward fourth overall in the 2018 draft, but he proved a lot of people wrong by becoming the franchise's first rookie Pro Bowler since Joe Thomas in 2007. Ward plays like a 10-year veteran, with natural hips and smooth transitions in and out of his breaks. And now with a stacked receiving corps in Cleveland, I can't wait to see how much he improves after competing with the likes of Odell Beckham Jr. in practice. Ward will be an All-Pro corner real soon. 9 Chris Harris Jr. CB Broncos This dude has made plays for years and was instrumental in Denver's championship run in 2015. Harris has long been known as one of the league's top slot corners, but he's mastered the art of playing both inside and outside. Aging cornerbacks have two choices: adjust your game or retire. Harris, who turned 30 in June, has adjusted well in recent years and was playing some great ball before suffering a broken leg in Week 13 last season, which brought his campaign to an end. He finished 2018 as Pro Football Focus' third-highest graded cornerback.

10 Marshon Lattimore CB Saints The Saints' CB1 has been one of the NFL's most productive cornerbacks since entering the league in 2017. He is tied for first in forced fumbles (five) and tied for fourth in both interceptions (seven) and passes defensed (30) among cornerbacks during that span. Lattimore usually shadows the best receiver each time out -- a tough job, especially in the NFC South, with Julio Jones in Atlanta and Mike Evans in Tampa -- and will start the season with a highly anticipated matchup against Houston's DeAndre Hopkins. Lattimore's play so far tells me he'll hold his own. HONORABLE MENTION: Jaire Alexander, Green Bay Packers; A.J. Bouye, Jacksonville Jaguars; Quinton Dunbar, Washington Redskins; Casey Hayward, Los Angeles Chargers; Marlon Humphrey, Baltimore Ravens; Donte Jackson, Carolina Panthers; Kareem Jackson, Denver Broncos; Trumaine Johnson, New York Jets; Desmond King, Los Angeles Chargers; Josh Norman, Washington Redskins; Marcus Peters, Los Angeles Rams; Xavier Rhodes, Minnesota Vikings; Aqib Talib, Los Angeles Rams; Desmond Trufant, Atlanta Falcons; Jason Verrett, San Francisco 49ers; Tre'Davious White, Buffalo Bills.

Closing Shot: The Past is History By Ben Fischer Sports Business Journal July 30, 2019 Change is in the air as the Pro Football Hall of Fame gets ready for this year’s enshrinement ceremony. Here’s how the hall plans to extend its time in the limelight.

When the 2019 class of eight luminaries that includes former tight end Tony Gonzalez, late Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and longtime Cowboys executive Gil Brandt is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 3, the festivities will look very familiar at first glance: gold jackets, emotional speeches, adoring fans.

In truth, little else is the same in Canton compared to just a few years ago. In fact, the organization is in the midst of a complete overhaul to both its business model and its physical space. In 2013, the year current CEO David Baker took over, the hall reported annual revenue of $14.9 million and net assets of $32.8 million. In 2017, the most recent tax filing available, those figures were $27 million and $59.4 million, respectively.

That’s due in part to the for-profit development of the Johnson Controls Hall of Fame Village, an $899 million mixed-use space, which will proceed this year after some delays in funding. The development, scheduled for completion in 2020, has already led to a renovated stadium and its next steps include a hotel, water park, retail and dining, and convention space.

Baker reflected on the changes as he looked out of his office window toward the front of the hall. “I see where guys used to bring lawn chairs and come for free to the enshrinement,” he said. “Now, last year, enshrinement was the first thing to sell out, even before the game.”

This year’s Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 1 features the Atlanta Falcons and the Denver Broncos, and it will be held on a Thursday night for the third consecutive time. That has shifted the exhibition from an anti-climactic coda after the Saturday enshrinement to a table-setter for Enshrinement Week Powered by Johnson Controls. The stadium, which had been a high school field that barely met NFL standards, was renovated three years ago and dubbed Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. On Sept. 1 it will host the first Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic, and starting next year, the Stagg Bowl — the Division III national title game — will be held there.

Another project calls for creating Centennial Plaza in downtown Canton, where the hall will mark 100 years since the founding of the NFL in 1920.

While the first week of August will always remain the most important time of the year for the hall, much of Baker’s work has been focused on diversification and decreasing the hall’s financial reliance on those few days.

“The goal is to do everything better than the year before, but respect the traditions of the past,” he said. “So there have been events here that have gone away, and every time something changes there’s always people who object to it, but the goal here is to try to make it better.”

Kevin Hogan will start Hall of Fame game for Broncos By Mike Florio Pro Football Talk July 30, 2019 Football is back on Thursday night, and the first game of the season will feature plenty of guys who won’t be employed by football teams come September. It’s the Hall of Fame game, which rarely entails performances from players destined to return to Canton for their own induction ceremony. Case in point: Starting at quarterback for the Broncos will be Kevin Hogan, via Mike Klis of 9News.com. Hogan will be followed by rookie Drew Lock and then Brett Rypien. Starter Joe Flacco won’t play. The fact that Lock isn’t starting underscores the fact that he’s got plenty to do to be ready to play in the regular season. Hogan also is listed as the No. 2 quarterback on the team’s initial, unofficial depth chart.

Phillip Lindsay back on the practice field By Darin Gantt Pro Football Talk July 30, 2019 Phillip Lindsay survived his trip to the chiropractor. According to Mike Klis of KUSA, the Broncos running back was back on the practice field Monday, healed from his latest unusual mishap. Lindsay had recovered from offseason wrist surgery, but was out of practice over the weekend with back soreness. Rookie coach Vic Fangio joked that the chiropractor “over did it. . . . So to hell with chiropractors, let’s play football.” If it keeps their 1,000-yard back on the field, the Broncos are likely all for it.