5 Bad Things That Happened During the Broncos Offseason
DENVER (CBS4) - Denver Broncos training camp is fast approaching, and with it another eventful offseason in the books.
The team made plenty of headlines. Some good, some bad. Last week we handled the positive, but this week we look at the negative:
1. John Fox Fired
While there is excitement about the hiring of Gary Kubiak (and I called it a positive in the last list), the departure of Fox is a reminder that the "Super Bowl or Bust" Broncos busted last year. Fox had a great four year run of regular season success, but another one-and-done playoff performance signaled the end of Fox's tenure in Denver.
2. Free Agent Losses
It was clear going into the offseason the Broncos weren't going to be able to bring back all of their free agents, and they would have to make some tough choices. Notable names that will no longer wear Orange & Blue: Julius Thomas, Orlando Franklin, Rahim Moore and Terrance Knighton.
3. Demaryius Thomas Holdout
This had a happy ending, with Demaryius Thomas agreeing to a 5 year, $70 million deal at the deadline, but it doesn't change the fact that DT missed OTAs. Most years that wouldn't be much of an issue, but this year the Broncos have a new coach and a new offense, and Thomas wasn't here to learn it with his teammates. DT says it won't be an issue and he will be ready come training camp, but we will see.
4. Season Ending Injuries
One of the biggest dangers of offseason workouts, the Broncos had two players suffer ACL injuries -- Ryan Clady and Jeff Heuerman. The Broncos will look to their 2nd round pick Ty Sambrailo to replace the 4-time pro bowler at left tackle, while the loss of their 3rd round pick isn't as big, Heuerman was expected to compete for playing time at tight end.
5. Off-Field Issues
John Bowlen's arrest (and the release of the 911 call) was an embarrassing moment for the franchise, and also creates more uncertainty about the future ownership of the team. As for players, new Bronco Antonio Smith may never actually put on a Broncos jersey as he is under investigation for child abuse in Texas.
Mark Haas is CBS4's weekend sports anchor and sports reporter. Read his bio or follow him on Twitter @markhaastv or on Facebook.
