Passing Excitement

Other than playing with the him on Madden, I can't say that I know a whole lot about new Broncos acquisition WR Samie (one "i" not two) Parker. I do know that he's fast on the video game. I also know that the Broncos signed Parker to compete for a roster spot. Given his contract, he's not guaranteed to even make the team, but I suspect that Shanahan is eyeing Parker as a kickoff/punt returner. I also read that the Broncos are going after Darrell Jackson, late of the underachieving 49ers, though he had tremendous success with Seattle a few years back.

In a perfect world, here's what the Broncos could achieve in their passing game. First the personnel: Brandon Marshall and his 1,000 yards on one side, Darrell Jackson's sure hands and precise route-running (think of a smaller yet quicker Rod Smith) on the other, Brandon Stokely back to slot where he thrives, Samie Parker as a speedy fourth receiver who could also stretch the field by playing opposite Marshall in a two receiver set, and Keary Colbert as an efficient number five (though he could play any receiver position in a pinch; i.e. great insurance policy if he makes the team). The Broncos will field Daniel Graham as their primary blocking tight end while Tony Scheffler will be the primary receiving tight end. Nate Jackson is solid enough to spell either in case of injury. The potentially exciting thing is that Graham has great hands and is a receiving threat anytime he's on the field. This lineup gives Cutler a minimum of 3 receivers on any down and a potent 5 receiver set as well. If the offensive line gives Cutler enough time, he'll throw for well over 3,000 yards and should get 25+ touchdowns in the regular season.

We all know that a good running game sets up the pass. Well, this may be a case where an aggressive passing game can open up the run. Selvin Young works perfectly in this system as a speedy back who can break big runs while defensive units drop back to defend the pass. He would play the Marshall Faulk role in St. Louis's Greatest Show on Turf offense from a decade ago. Meanwhile, Travis -why-have-one-kid-when-you-can-have-nine- Henry can come in as the bruiser who keeps defenses honest and open up the passing game when necessary. Back in the proverbial day, Kurt Warner and the Rams never had a punishing back of Henry's caliber, which ultimately cost them their Super Bowl against the Patriots. . . .that and the fact that the Patriots cheated. But you get my point.

Wait, there's more. Mike Shanahan may not be the best man to run the organization, but he's one helluva coach. If he gets the chance to call plays this season with the offense I described above, there's no reason the Broncos won't have a great year. That assumes the defense isn't a complete bust. I guess we'll see.