While many teams have had big off-seasons with a lot of positive progress, the Denver Broncos have had, by far, the strangest off-season in the NFL. At least as far as player movement is concerned.
Mike Shanahan and the Broncos imported the under-achieving Cleveland Browns defensive line, drafted Maurice Clarett, brought in a non-productive Ron Dayne, traded for DWI punter Todd Sauerbraun, and now have signed the immortal Jerry Rice.
In an age where team-first attitude and team-chemistry are constantly cited as reasons for the success of the Patriots and, to a lesser extent, other teams, it is a bit strange that Shanahan would bring in so many potential 'problem-guys'.
The Broncos probably didn't have too many choices in how they approached this off-season due to their salary-cap issues. But still, there are some risky players here. It might be difficult to get some of these guys to buy into Shanhan's philosophy.
But if most of them live up to their potential, the Broncos could be much improved overall. As a Broncos' fan transplanted to Minnesota, I have seen first-hand what a single malcontent (Randy Moss) can do to a team. If any of the guys the Broncos are taking a chance on start to head down that path, Shanahan will have to react quickly to stop that attitude from spreading.
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