Denver Broncos: Assessing Tebow, Winning, and the Draft
By Bo Martin
Look, I’m a straight shooter, I don’t like to spend a lot of time beating around the bush and selling you guys a bunch of rambling that doesn’t clearly convey a specific point. So I’m going to get the point out right from the start…
I believe in Tim Tebow.
Much has been made about Tim since entering the league as a controversial first round pick by coach Josh McDaniels, and if you watch ESPN at all you are all well aware of his many flaws; his long throwing motion, his inability to throw accurately, inability to roll to the right with success. I mean, they say the average time for a QB to get a ball off is 3-5 seconds in the pocket; Tebow’s motion takes .6 seconds for release in itself. Success cant be possible with something like that, right?… RIGHT?!?!
Time and time again we see Tebow escape rushers and rumble for 10, 20, maybe 30 yards, we see long bombs that leave us in awe, especially after witnessing him miss an open receiver 5 yards down the field, but most of all we witness him turn into Super Tebow (trademark pending) when the Bronco’s need him most. He’s a bonafide leader, the team plays better because of his presence and leadership, and the guy just wins.
So how much does that mean? I am also a Tony Romo supporter, who really is the pinnacle of the QB position, but he just never wins the big one and that has become his reputation. Tebow wins but cant pass. They are polar opposites, yet the same people criticize them for the things they can’t do. Which is more important? The Tebow-led Bronco’s are now in position to make it to the AFC championship game, and the media keeps saying the Bronco’s will look to bring someone else in. Tony Romo is sitting at home and the Cowboys don’t get any attention from the media about finding Tony’s replacement (not that they should by the way)
Here is the bottom line: As long as Tebow is winning in the NFL, you can’t doubt him. I would give anything to have 52 Tim Tebow’s on my team instead of these criminal’s, thugs, punks, and just selfish individuals that seem to forget how fortunate they are to play in the NFL. Passion, work ethic, and a humble personality will etch Tebow’s name into the ring that borders the top of the second level of Sports Authority Field at Mile High, so everyone needs to stop doubting him, and heck even stop hyping him up so much, and just enjoy what we watch with a guy like this.
The Bronco’s Draft Scheme:
Since I’ve clearly stated that the Bronco’s are in no need of a quarterback, a lot of their offseason to-do list will focus on the development and protection of Tebow. Basically, they should take a “what can we do to make Tebow better” approach and couple that with solidifying a potentially dangerous defense.
With defensive studs lining the draft the Bronco’s should have no problem making themselves a better team through it.
Here is my Draft/Free Agency to-do list for the Bronco’s:
NFL Draft:
First Round: Draft Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
This may be a little bit of a reach here, and Devon Still, DT, Penn State would look great here too, but John Fox is notorious for drafting RB and utilizing a multiple back system, and that changes none in Denver with the Tebow option offense. McGahee has been solid but is getting up there in age and has already shown signs of wearing down. Miller is a good back with good power, great vision, and notable speed. I would venture to say that if he can get to the second level of ANY defense, he could take it to the house. Moreno can’t stay healthy, and Miller is the future in Denver. Period.
Second Round: Draft Stephen Gilmore, CB, South Carolina
I’ve seen Gilmore mocked as far at 14th overall, but I think that the lack of need for CB mixed with the profiles of Jenkins, Kirkpatrick, and Claiborne pushes Gilmore back a bit. Don’t let that fool you though, Gilmore is incredible heady, rangy, and able. Champ is getting older, still has it, but is getting older and could teach Gilmore a thing or two. Gilmore displays great awareness, play recognition, and has very good size. This could be another franchise selection for the Bronco’s
Third Round: Draft Orson Charles, TE, UGA
This is another steal if they can land him. It actually may require moving up a few spots because of Charles’ ability as a pass catcher. The Bronco’s drafted two tight ends last year and while they have ability, none is a number one. Charles’ is coming off his best season as a Bulldog and would provide Tebow a really good safety blanket option. He has speed, great hands, and size. He would be great to drag along 5 yards down the field and help Tebow in rolling out situations or quick check downs from the pocket. In my opinion, Charles is a number one option waiting to happen, the Bronco needs him more than any team I can think of.
Free Agency-
Sign Either Calais Campbell or Cliff Avril (High Priority):
With Campbell on a team who cant get right and Avril on a team that has a lot of money on its D-line and an offensive line that needs revamping. One of these guys has to be available.
Resign Broderick Bunkley (High Priority):
Bunkley has played well since coming from Philly where he has underachieved. The Bronco’s D-Line is rough, lets not make it worse.
Sign Anthony Spencer (luxury):
Spencer is gone from Dallas, more likely than not, he is an able OLB who can make plays in the run game and rush the passer. Opposite Vonn Miller he would really add to a very good LB corp.
Resign Eddie Royal (moderate priority)/Sign speedy WR (less than important):
Eddie has been great in Denver, he’s young and able. You can tell there is a lot of to love about him by the chants by the Denver Faithful. That being said, he needs to be resigned if nothing more than just a returner option. Decker and Thomas are going to be great, getting them a speedy receiver to stretch defenses could be a plus, but not a priority.