Eddie Royal OVER Jackson, Sweed and Kelly??

[eessydo]

So we need a punt and kick returner and we pick Eddie Royal @ 5'10" over DeSean Jackson @ 6'???

I may not be the smartest guy around, and I was VERY negative on D. Jackson as a First Rounder, but we had a chance at the guy in the Second and we passed............

We also had a chance at Limas Sweed, a guy who could be a very good #2 receiver.

Kelly vs Royal is a coin Toss, but IMO not a toss we won.

So do we really think we are that good at wide receiver that we can waste our #2 pick on a Kick Returner?

Denver is the WORST at evaluating WR talent, so here is to another wasted pick.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

[CoachChaz]

I agree. This is the one pick that I disliked the most. I expected us to go with a WR and kind of wanted us to. When I saw guys like Jackson, Bennett, Sweed, etc. were available, I was happy. Unless a guy possesses the return skills of a Devin Hester, I don't think you take specialist that high. If we were looking for a guy that can do both, I would have MUCH preferred Jackson.

[MOtorboat]

A pick is not "wasted" on a kick returner/punt returner in the second when you are last in the league in that category.

Eddie Royal, 2007, 31 punt returns, 455 yards, 14.7 avg., 2 TDs. 14 KR, 316 yards, 22.6 avg.

Desean Jackson, 2007, 12 punt returns, 129 yards, 10.8 avg., 1 TD. Not a kick returner.

[G_Money]

Give Royal at least a full series of training camps before you call him a bust. He's not from a school that produces instantly ready wideouts, and he has an ability to make people look stupid that very, very few guys do.

Desean is faster, but IMO Desean is gonna get KILLED in the pros. Royal is also one of the hardest working wideouts you'll ever see. He'll get the Rod Smith seal of approval.

I'm not totally sold on Royal, but I know what they were looking at. Limas is still having injury issues, Desean's a punk and I don't think he'll be as good a WR as Royal, and Royal understands and excels at all aspects of special teams (thanks VT). He's also a far more willing blocker than Desean, and being roughly 3 times as strong as him, he'll be better at it too once they get his technique right.

I would not have drafted a WR/KR hybrid with the pick, but that doesn't make Royal a bad choice if you were going to - and we did.

Like I said, I wouldn't have done it, but I *am* curious to see how it works out. Normally these sorts of hybrid choices scare the bajeezus outta me, especially that high.

But if Eddie works out, it's a BIG weapon for us, on kicks, punts AND offense. That's a hard trifecta to turn down.

~G

[Flatinum]

I'm glad they passed on both Sweed and Kelly.

[silkamilkamonico]

Denver chose Royal over Jackson because of character, and Royal interviewed so much better. Apparently every team out there was unimpressed with Jackson, and his "me-me" attitude.

Not sure what everyone sees in Sweed and Kelly. There's a reason they both fell so far at the WR position, and good reasons for that matter. Both of their games don't suit the NFL level like they did in college, and both of them were shut down by teams with good secondary's.

People need to quit looking at NCAA 2k8 ratings to figure out who the best players are at each position.

[CoachChaz]

I'm not calling the guy a bust, but I'm just not an advocate of taking a guy that high and hoping he can get the return game back in gear. Will he contribute to the offense? That remains to be seen. IMO, he has ALOT of work to do before he comes close to being and NFL ready WR.

[G_Money]

Yeah, I don't think you're wrong about that, Chaz.

He's got work to put in. But the list of WRs who DON'T have work to put in and can make an impact in their first season is...small, as you know.

Royal still can make an impact in his first season as a PR/KR, and then in year 2 we'll see how that WR thing is going for him.

Of course, this is dependent on the other 10 special teams guys not playing like special needs guys again - hopefully we work on that...

~G

[LRtagger]

When did DeSean Jackson grow 3 inches? At the combine he was 5'-9" and weighed in at a massive 169lbs.

As much as I dont like Royal at pick 42, I would have liked Jackson there even less. I would have been happier with a back or a bigger WR at the pick, but oh well.

[silkamilkamonico]

IMO, he has ALOT of work to do before he comes close to being and NFL ready WR.

Every single WR in this draft has ALOT of work to do to become NFL ready. It's why none of them were selected in the first round.

[CoachChaz]

The point is...he was drafted based on his combination of talent. A 2nd rounder on a KR/PR guy? Like G said...if the other 10 guys are useless out there, there is only so much he can do.

[lex]

I dont have anything against Royal. In fact, I like him better than DeSean Jackson. My problem is that this was a pick two years in the making. Shanahan was on an Ahab like quest because he was going to use our 2nd two years ago to take Hester but instead he wasted the pick on getting Walker and then let him walk this year. So basically, his being consumed with all of this caused us to waste two 2nds on his Ahab-like quest. We should have drafted a running back here. Kick returners are nice but they dont carry the ball 20-25 times a game. We could have also had Trevor Laws. Im not so disappointed on that because our DT would have been a back up but still, Shanahans mistake two years ago caused us to tie up a pick again this year.

[Dreadnought]

Couldn't disagree more. Given a choice of Royal or the other 3 mentioned I take Royal every time. I don't want Desean on the roster period. Enough with the boneheads, please, and that seems to have been in part the direction the Broncs took this time out. Royal may be an inspired choice; we'll just have to see. Its not hard to like a combination of talent, work ethic, intelligence, and toughness though.

[silkamilkamonico]

The point is...he was drafted based on his combination of talent. A 2nd rounder on a KR/PR guy? Like G said...if the other 10 guys are useless out there, there is only so much he can do.

True, but people forget that DWill was drafted as a combo too. It turned out the kid could play, and became a viable starter despite what anyone thinks. If Royal can play, he'll play some WR and then possibly fill the role of Stokley.

He'll be a 2-3 year plan. But then again, so is every other WR in this draft.

[xzn]

Royal can bench press very nearly double his body weight. He's 184 and has a one rep max of 365! He pushed up 225 25 times in Indianapolis.

Royal is 0.04 slower than De Sean, had a better PR average and is also a KR.

He is more willing to block, shows better potential to be able to beat the press at the los and become a contributing WR and is a high character guy with excellent intelligence and future coaching potential.

He may or may not work out but it's a no-brainer that he has better tools to work with.

Note for the record: I am a PAC-10 homer who saw De Sean play in High School and have his English teacher as a client. I am biased toward Jackson and when the pick first came up I was confused. But after finding out who this guy is it is apparent why Shanahan took him instead of the other "name" guys.

[G_Money]

If D-Will hadn't been shot we wouldn't be doing this either. We might still be looking for somebody to take the duties from him but it wouldn't be such a dire need. We could be worried about it in later rounds or UDFA.

No Hester + No D-Will + too much of the bunch of schlubs we did use = trouble. I still think if we'd waitied longer on Hixon we might have been all right, but his impatience once again cost us there. When a guy hits you and get paralyzed in the first game of the year it might shake you up a little.

But what's done is done. It's not a wasted 2nd round pick if it works out.

And at least we didn't draft 3 KR/WR hybrid guys trying to get one. Shanny believed in his pick and moved on. The position-glut drafting of the past few years has been highly frustrating.

~G

[Drill-N-Fill]

Shanny said what sold him on Royal was the ability to break out of a jam w/o breaking a sweat.

The same couldn't be said of Ginn 2.0. What made DeSean Jackson drop was that scouts were ticked off at his worth ethic. He didn't show he wanted to get better. One scout said, he was the last person in line on ALL of the drills.

[D1g1tal j1m]

Royal was bigger and more elusive in the open field than Jackson. In according to all reports, he interviewed well and has a strong work ethic and high character (things Jackson lacks). As you can see with all the draft picks this year, Shan has put character and high worth ethic and high motor guys at the top of his list. I like this move and Royal definitely fills a need. Plus he will learn the slot WR position from one of the best in Stokes and then contribute in year 2 from the WR position.

Not all NFL players went to elite D1 college programs. Royal has the talent and desire to be really good in this league. Let it play out before you judge this draft.

[Retired_Member_001]

I don't mind Eddie Royal over Jackson, what I do mind is Eddie Royal over Sweed. I think Limas Sweed is going to be a good receiver in this league. The problem is that Shanahan doesn't want to draft a good receiver in this league at the moment, he wants to draft the best return man in this league. If Eddie Royal can be a decent receiver and a great return man, I will be really happy with this pick. The problem Eddie has is that our blocking is really bad on Special Teams plays. Even if you have Devin Hester back there, if the blocking is bad, the return man will be made to look bad.

I hope for the best for this guy.

[lex]

Guys, Royal can actually throw the ball too. Dont be surprised if Shanahan opens up the playbook a little more with him on the field. He definitely brings a Randle El element to the team. He actually went to HS with VaTechs current QB, Glennon, and apparently was better than Glennon as a QB in HS although both of them played.

BTW, Royal went to the same HS as the spree killer from last year.

[xzn]

Royal was bigger and more elusive in the open field than Jackson. In according to all reports, he interviewed well and has a strong work ethic and high character (things Jackson lacks). As you can see with all the draft picks this year, Shan has put character and high worth ethic and high motor guys at the top of his list. I like this move and Royal definitely fills a need. Plus he will learn the slot WR position from one of the best in Stokes and then contribute in year 2 from the WR position.

Not all NFL players went to elite D1 college programs. Royal has the talent and desire to be really good in this league. Let it play out before you judge this draft.

How is Virginia Tech not an "elite D1 college program"? They had the second most players drafted this year behind only USC. :listen:

[MHCBill]

Eddie Royal was a good pick...

Instant PR/KR (need)

At best #2 WR 2-3 years... at worst #3 WR 2-3 years away.

Great character

Great work ethic

Willingness to block

Great YAC

Without a #3 pick we had to grab him at #2... wouldn't have been around in round 4.

Plus... I would have flipped out if Desean Jackson would have been picked over Royal. We got a team guy that works harder, has better character, stronger, and will never whine about not getting the damn ball.

[topscribe]

Give Royal at least a full series of training camps before you call him a bust. He's not from a school that produces instantly ready wideouts, and he has an ability to make people look stupid that very, very few guys do.

Desean is faster, but IMO Desean is gonna get KILLED in the pros. Royal is also one of the hardest working wideouts you'll ever see. He'll get the Rod Smith seal of approval.

I'm not totally sold on Royal, but I know what they were looking at. Limas is still having injury issues, Desean's a punk and I don't think he'll be as good a WR as Royal, and Royal understands and excels at all aspects of special teams (thanks VT). He's also a far more willing blocker than Desean, and being roughly 3 times as strong as him, he'll be better at it too once they get his technique right.

I would not have drafted a WR/KR hybrid with the pick, but that doesn't make Royal a bad choice if you were going to - and we did.

Like I said, I wouldn't have done it, but I *am* curious to see how it works out. Normally these sorts of hybrid choices scare the bajeezus outta me, especially that high.

But if Eddie works out, it's a BIG weapon for us, on kicks, punts AND offense. That's a hard trifecta to turn down.

~G

The Sports Guru, in his thing last Wednesday, thought one of the most
glaring needs was a returner and that he would use the 2nd pick for that. I
agree. Field position is critical in the game of football, and the Broncos all
too often found themselves on the wrong end of the field. I am growing
weary of seeing the offense operate from their own 15-yard line.

Looking at the respective highlights between Royal and Jackson, I thought
Royal looked like the football player. I believe Royal is going to be able to
do more things for the Broncos than Jackson. I just cannot imagine ultra-
thin Jackson going over the middle as a slot receiver.

Yet Royal looked to be every bit the returner Jackson is. Oh, and by the
way, I have seen time and again here how Jackson is faster than Royal. Has
anyone actually looked at their respective 40 times? Jackson's was 4.35,
and Royal's was 4.39. That's .04 (4/100) of a second difference over 40
yards, folks . . . about the distance from the heel of the foot to the big toe.
Jackson is not faster than Royal.

In the end, it is my opinion that the Broncos took the better football player.

-----

[MOtorboat]

How is Virginia Tech not an "elite D1 college program"? They had the second most players drafted this year behind only USC. :listen:

Forgive Jim, he lives in L.A.

[xzn]

Forgive Jim, he lives in L.A.

Errr... so do I :welcome:

[D1g1tal j1m]

How is Virginia Tech not an "elite D1 college program"? They had the second most players drafted this year behind only USC. :listen:

My bad on that one. It must be the case of the Mondays!:coffee:

[G_Money]

Yet Royal looked to be every bit the returner Jackson is. Oh, and by the
way, I have seen time and again here how Jackson is faster than Royal. Has
anyone actually looked at their respective 40 times? Jackson's was 4.35,
and Royal's was 4.39. That's .04 (4/100) of a second difference over 40
yards, folks . . . about the distance from the heel of the foot to the big toe.
Jackson is not faster than Royal.

In the end, it is my opinion that the Broncos took the better football player.

-----


On a football field he is. I like Royal fine, but Jackson's faster on a football field. But you're exactly right IMO about Royal being a better football player.

Being faster won't help Desean when his spinal cord is lying on the ground after Bob Sanders whips out his finishing move for a fatality right in the middle of the field, though. Crossing routes? Yeah...I don't see a lot of those in Desean's future. Desean doesn't go over the middle. Desean also would not have had those 3 fumbles be a problem if one of the other guys had jumped on em.

Thank God we're discussing Royal as our hybrid (I may have to nickname him "Green") instead of D-Jack.

~G

[shank]

royal over jackson is a great decision.

i was preaching sweed and scratched my head when we came up royal, but was amazingly happy we didn't go jackson.

royal impressed me at the combine, enough that i wanted him, but didn't know he was a good enough of a returner to make it into the 2nd, so i didn't research him much. all the reasons that royal is the better pick over jackson have already been said, and to me are very clear. i guess shanny thinks we already have our #2 in darrell or colbert.

and if you scoff at royal's production, shanny said he's glad he had other weapons around him and didn't get more balls, or he wouldn't have been there in the 2nd round.

i think the high character of this draft alone makes every pick exciting.

[topscribe]

On a football field he is. I like Royal fine, but Jackson's faster on a football field. But you're exactly right IMO about Royal being a better football player.

Being faster won't help Desean when his spinal cord is lying on the ground after Bob Sanders whips out his finishing move for a fatality right in the middle of the field, though. Crossing routes? Yeah...I don't see a lot of those in Desean's future. Desean doesn't go over the middle. Desean also would not have had those 3 fumbles be a problem if one of the other guys had jumped on em.

Thank God we're discussing Royal as our hybrid (I may have to nickname him "Green") instead of D-Jack.

~G

All I know is that, when I was viewing the You Tube highlights of Royal, the
play-by-play people were gushing about his speed, in more than one
highlight. I watched Jackson's highlights, and yes, he looked fast. Yet I was
not any more impressed with him than I was Royal, in speed or anything
else.

I do remember thinking, regarding Jackson, "boy, he looks skinny." But
maybe that's from looking in my full-length mirror a bit too often. :lol:

-----

[turftoad]

I'm not real crazy about the pick either however, I can see the logic. Sweed and Kelly are both Marshall like in size and speed. I like both of them. Royal is faster than both and can strech the field allowing Marshall to work underneath and also open up the run game a little more.
I also like Royal better than Jackson as I think Royal has a better chance of NOT being one demensional as a returner. I think he'll prove to be a better WR than Jackson.

That said, I still would have rather Sweed or Kelly but I can see the reasoning.

[MOtorboat]

One thing to remember, Jackson didn't return kicks.

[BeefStew25]

I watched Royal's presser, and he seemed to have that inner quiet confidence. Came from a grounded family sounds like. Little things like that matter over time. Seems coachable.

Maybe it is just the Monster talking, but I start shaking when I watch his highlight's on YouTube.

[shank]

I watched Royal's presser, and he seemed to have that inner quiet confidence. Came from a grounded family sounds like. Little things like that matter over time. Seems coachable.

Maybe it is just the Monster talking, but I start shaking when I watch his highlight's on YouTube.

yeah, he said he's the youngest of a big family. he knows how to fall in line and has something to prove! like i said, i don't see any of these guys (esp royal/powell/larsen) failing because of a lack of effort, and it's nice to not have to worry about that.

also, i just watched his youtube highlights again and noticed something that excites me. on a lot of the punt return highlights, he is catching the punt with defenders in his face and making moves to make the first guy/two/three miss without all that much blocking help. that skill will come in handy here in denver!

then i watched deseans highlights, and in many of his punt returns he dances or makes like 3 cuts before ever getting upfield. it may have worked at cal, but i dont remember ever having seen a denver punt returner dance his way into a good return. royal finds his crease and gets upfield which i like.

[G_Money]

Desean runs around - Royal's very quick with a two-step change of direction that ditches the guys coming at him.

It's one of the things that makes me really intruiged about Royal: with feet like that (and hips, and knees) that can shake guys without a lot of wasted effort, how much can he do when he's taught how to run routes correctly?

The way he runs back kicks makes me want to see him more as a receiver. Watching him ditch guys at the combine with double-moves and stop-starts of startling quality and speed...he's got tools. He rounds off routes but should never have to - he's a great plant-and-go player. We should get that fixed up pretty quickly.

The hands aren't glue, but they aren't bad, and from the looks of it playing press coverage against him could be folly - he's strong enough to get free and if you're that close to him with no cushion he's gonna eat you up with those quick plants.

Just an interesting dude all around.

~G

[eessydo]

As you can see with all the draft picks this year, Shan has put character and high worth ethic and high motor guys at the top of his list.

And I am supposed to be impressed? Character Schmaracter. That is not something Shanahan has been worried (ie Clarett, Thomas) about to date so why should it matter now?

[eessydo]

I dont have anything against Royal. In fact, I like him better than DeSean Jackson. My problem is that this was a pick two years in the making. Shanahan was on an Ahab like quest because he was going to use our 2nd two years ago to take Hester but instead he wasted the pick on getting Walker and then let him walk this year. So basically, his being consumed with all of this caused us to waste two 2nds on his Ahab-like quest. We should have drafted a running back here. Kick returners are nice but they dont carry the ball 20-25 times a game. We could have also had Trevor Laws. Im not so disappointed on that because our DT would have been a back up but still, Shanahans mistake two years ago caused us to tie up a pick again this year.

Couldn't agree more with you Lex. KR, PR or KR/PR, it does not matter. The fact is if we needed a receiver, their were better ones available, but we had other needs that could have been addressed here. If we wanted him that bad we could have just packaged up a couple of other picks and moved up in the third.

Dixon was just fine after he left the Broncos. Maybe Shanahan just keeps kicking himself over the return game and felt like if he took someone in the second, he would at least be hancuffed to him for 3 years because it will take that long before he admits the mistake.

We have much bigger needs than a guy that will touch the ball a couple of times a game and play second fiddle to Stokely.

[Bronco4ever]

And I am supposed to be impressed? Character Schmaracter. That is not something Shanahan has been worried (ie Clarett, Thomas) about to date so why should it matter now?

The new enforcement by the league makes character one of the biggest issues in the draft. What good does a highly talented player like Pacman and Chris Henry do if they can't get on the field? We need guys that are reliable and stay out of trouble. The players we got are clean cut and will produce for us. Good deal

[MOtorboat]

Couldn't agree more with you Lex. KR, PR or KR/PR, it does not matter. The fact is if we needed a receiver, their were better ones available, but we had other needs that could have been addressed here. If we wanted him that bad we could have just packaged up a couple of other picks and moved up in the third.

Dixon was just fine after he left the Broncos. Maybe Shanahan just keeps kicking himself over the return game and felt like if he took someone in the second, he would at least be hancuffed to him for 3 years because it will take that long before he admits the mistake.

We have much bigger needs than a guy that will touch the ball a couple of times a game and play second fiddle to Stokely.

Did you pay attention to our free agent pickups...we didn't need a wide receiver, we needed the best returnman in the draft. We picked him up. If he can play No. 3 WR...all the more benefit.

I guess field position is really overrated. :rolleyes:

[BroncoJoe]

And I am supposed to be impressed? Character Schmaracter. That is not something Shanahan has been worried (ie Clarett, Thomas) about to date so why should it matter now?

Maybe that's exactly why it matters now.

[Ziggy]

We have a buttload of wide receivers on this team. They will all be fighting for the 1 and 2 receiver spots. This guy is a returner and slot receiver. He fills 2 needs. KR/PR, and a backup and heir apparent for Stokely, who is no spring chicken. We filled an immediate need with one of the best returners in the draft, and we have our slot receiver when Stokely retires or gets injured again. I like the pick. I'm sick of seeing us start our drives inside the 25 yard line. Some short drives for scores would be a refreshing change around here.

[Dreadnought]

Maybe that's exactly why it matters now.

Exactly. I don't care where a guy went to school, what his 40 time is, or how he graded on the bench press if he is a selfish dope smoking A-hole or is going to get busted for beating women or shooting dogs. The Hell with that. Its about time we learned.

[topscribe]

And I am supposed to be impressed? Character Schmaracter. That is not something Shanahan has been worried (ie Clarett, Thomas) about to date so why should it matter now?

Shanny's willingness to forgive and give someone a second chance is a tribute
to his character . . . and so is his willingness to send someone down the road
for the lack of it, no matter what kind of physical talent they might have (see
Walker and Gardener).

Because Shanny has character, he recognized Thomas' sincerity in turning it
all around. (And I still believe Thomas will turn out fine.) So some betrayed
him (Shanny). That sometimes happens to the more compassionate.

The investigation into character in this draft is nothing new to Shanny's
regime. The Broncos have had some very high character players as a result
if this (see Elway, McCaffrey, R. Smith, Lynch, Bailey, Burns, Foxworth,
Davis, Cutler, etc., etc., etc.).

Oh yes, and as of the time he was drafted, Clarett had not yet robbed
anybody.

So let me repeat: Character has been an issue with Shanny all along.

-----

[Requiem / The Dagda]

Royal has the ability to play outside or the slot in the NFL, where Jackson is likely just a slot receiver and a punt returner. Royal returns both punts and kick-offs. Royal is much more compact, and much stronger than DeSean. Royal probably isn't as agile, but he still makes people miss and on several returns and receptions you see his compact build coming into advantage because he just works over people. He's a hard worker, and a high character guy. He's a leader in the locker room and since he came to Denver has already said he will do what it takes, whatever it takes to help this team win.

He's a dedicated student of the game, and will help us immediately. I wish people would keep in mind that the receivers we signed (besides Colbert) are really one year rentals, and that Brandon S. isn't going to be around forever too. Royal could be starting in 2009, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him play a bit of receiver this year as well. I think he'll impress that much.

I really like his mindset and his personality. I know this sounds cheesy, but seeing him be so humble and smile really got me going when watching his press conference. Those are the players you build teams around, and those are the players that help you win championships.

Like Shanahan said, he wanted to draft players who would play the game for nothing but the game itself, and he got that in Eddie Royal, and most all of his other selections.

On a side note; had Royal played for a team who could actually pass the ball. . . boy -- look out. All of VT's receivers got draft, and for a reason. They project well to the NFL, regardless of their mediocre statistics. You just gotta understand their offense and the situtation they were all in.

Welcome to Denver Eddie Royal. No lofty expectations. You don't need to be Rod Smith. You don't need to be Deven Hester. Make a name for yourself as Eddie Royal. :)

[mclark]

I don't have a problem with Royal. He's small but very strong; and apparently he is a VERY hard worker.

I just didn't think he was the best value at that spot in the draft. We didn't have a third rounder for various sundry reasons (something about last year) so we had to take the guy we wanted most among second and third-round picks.

Royal, to me, feels like a reach, a la Watts and TBell.

I would have taken Trevor Laws also -- but a sticking point for us was no third round pick.

[topscribe]

I dont have anything against Royal. In fact, I like him better than DeSean Jackson. My problem is that this was a pick two years in the making. Shanahan was on an Ahab like quest because he was going to use our 2nd two years ago to take Hester but instead he wasted the pick on getting Walker and then let him walk this year. So basically, his being consumed with all of this caused us to waste two 2nds on his Ahab-like quest. We should have drafted a running back here. Kick returners are nice but they dont carry the ball 20-25 times a game. We could have also had Trevor Laws. Im not so disappointed on that because our DT would have been a back up but still, Shanahans mistake two years ago caused us to tie up a pick again this year.

I'll tell you what, if you are so worried about what happened two years ago,
then I suggest you go on downstream and see if you can find it because
that's where it all went, if you know what I mean.

The concern is here. Now. The Broncos have a glaring need to improve their
field position . . . where they consistently begin their drives. They made a
bold move to do that with the best player available.

Besides, the Broncos have good backs. Damn good backs: one who led the
entire league in rushing last year before he was injured and another who
can score from anywhere on the field . . . and demonstrated that he is
going to do just that. Moreover, the Broncos drafted a good back. This guy
is a faster Travis Henry . . . without the kids and the bongs.

Nonetheless, I most certainly would rather have Travis Henry carrying the
ball from the 35-yard line than Stewart from the 15-yard line all the time.

We needed Royal in the 2nd round. Before we needed anybody else.

IMHO.

-----

[WARHORSE]

The point is...he was drafted based on his combination of talent. A 2nd rounder on a KR/PR guy? Like G said...if the other 10 guys are useless out there, there is only so much he can do.


Last guy we drafted at 2 for the same talents produced Darrent Williams.......a starter. That doesnt mean Royal will pan out of course but you also have to say that KR is something Denver seriously wanted to address. Maybe hes not Devin Hester, but who would we have gotten when we had no more picks until the fourth round?

This guy was the perfect candidate for what they wanted to accomplish in the draft with this pick, and I think thats why Shanny & company was focused on him. Looking at what we want in a player, this guy has it all when it comes to character and lockeroom makeup. The only thing he was lacking coming in was a stud QB to throw to him, and some height that you would like. But if hes a true slot? Perfect.

He helps Cutler by shortening the field position to our advantage, and giving him a guy who will be able to get open.

[WARHORSE]

Royal has the ability to play outside or the slot in the NFL, where Jackson is likely just a slot receiver and a punt returner. Royal returns both punts and kick-offs. Royal is much more compact, and much stronger than DeSean. Royal probably isn't as agile, but he still makes people miss and on several returns and receptions you see his compact build coming into advantage because he just works over people. He's a hard worker, and a high character guy. He's a leader in the locker room and since he came to Denver has already said he will do what it takes, whatever it takes to help this team win.

He's a dedicated student of the game, and will help us immediately. I wish people would keep in mind that the receivers we signed (besides Colbert) are really one year rentals, and that Brandon S. isn't going to be around forever too. Royal could be starting in 2009, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him play a bit of receiver this year as well. I think he'll impress that much.

I really like his mindset and his personality. I know this sounds cheesy, but seeing him be so humble and smile really got me going when watching his press conference. Those are the players you build teams around, and those are the players that help you win championships.

Like Shanahan said, he wanted to draft players who would play the game for nothing but the game itself, and he got that in Eddie Royal, and most all of his other selections.

On a side note; had Royal played for a team who could actually pass the ball. . . boy -- look out. All of VT's receivers got draft, and for a reason. They project well to the NFL, regardless of their mediocre statistics. You just gotta understand their offense and the situtation they were all in.

Welcome to Denver Eddie Royal. No lofty expectations. You don't need to be Rod Smith. You don't need to be Deven Hester. Make a name for yourself as Eddie Royal. :)

:beer:

The other thing I like about this kid, is I saw a highlight of him on a return where there were two unblocked defenders flying at him in close quarters, and he had the nads to run right up the gut between them in a squeeze. It was the only move to make to gain yardage, which he did. Had he tried to sidestep or dodge, which most second tier returners will do, he would have gotten creamed.

I like him.

Hes not the saviour, but I definitely think he will be a cog in the wheel of taking steps towards a superbowl winning team.

[Nature Boy]

So we need a punt and kick returner and we pick Eddie Royal @ 5'10" over DeSean Jackson @ 6'???



Desean Jackson is 5'9 3/4'' and Royal is 5'9 5/8'', only 1/8" taller while Jackson is 170lbs while Royal is 184lbs and that much stronger.

Shanahan liked Royal for his ability to catch the ball of breaks(bump & run), thought he was the best in the whole draft at it. Royal was the better choice. There is a reason so many teams past on Jackson. Don't buy in too much ESPN hype and highlights.

[topscribe]

Fast Eddie Royal will give us our returner and is our future slot receiver!

Here's to Fast Eddie!! :beer:

-----

[slim]

Enough with the D. Jackson crap. Jackson will never make it in the NFL.

[TXBRONC]

So we need a punt and kick returner and we pick Eddie Royal @ 5'10" over DeSean Jackson @ 6'???

I may not be the smartest guy around, and I was VERY negative on D. Jackson as a First Rounder, but we had a chance at the guy in the Second and we passed............

We also had a chance at Limas Sweed, a guy who could be a very good #2 receiver.

Kelly vs Royal is a coin Toss, but IMO not a toss we won.

So do we really think we are that good at wide receiver that we can waste our #2 pick on a Kick Returner?

Denver is the WORST at evaluating WR talent, so here is to another wasted pick.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Royal out weighs him by about 20 lbs.

He runs better routes than Jackson and there seems to be some character issues with Jackson as well.

This was not a wasted pick.

[TXBRONC]

Did you pay attention to our free agent pickups...we didn't need a wide receiver, we needed the best returnman in the draft. We picked him up. If he can play No. 3 WR...all the more benefit.

I guess field position is really overrated. :rolleyes:


Exactly one that can do both punt and kick returns.

[TXBRONC]

I'm not real crazy about the pick either however, I can see the logic. Sweed and Kelly are both Marshall like in size and speed. I like both of them. Royal is faster than both and can strech the field allowing Marshall to work underneath and also open up the run game a little more.
I also like Royal better than Jackson as I think Royal has a better chance of NOT being one demensional as a returner. I think he'll prove to be a better WR than Jackson.

That said, I still would have rather Sweed or Kelly but I can see the reasoning.

I don't know about Kelly but Sweed didn't return punts or kickoffs from what I remember.

[rcsodak]

I'm not calling the guy a bust, but I'm just not an advocate of taking a guy that high and hoping he can get the return game back in gear. Will he contribute to the offense? That remains to be seen. IMO, he has ALOT of work to do before he comes close to being and NFL ready WR.

Listening to Sirrius, they think he'll be a fantastic slot wr, and make people look StuPID!

And it sure doesn't hurt to learn from one of the best, in Stokely.

It'd been nice to have traded up to the 3rd and grabbed him, IF he'd have been there, but everybody knew the wr's were going to start flying off the board in the 2nd, and not having another pick until the 4th played a large part in shanny's decision, methinks. ND's DT would have been my 2nd rd pick.

And it sure doesn't hurt to have 1 player be able to play 2 "positions" *kr/pr*, and saving room for another roster spot.

[sonenlaw]

Desean is faster, but IMO Desean is gonna get KILLED in the pros. ~G

I'm tired of people justifying this pick by saying Jackson will get killed in the pros. That is one of the most un-football-educated arguments I have ever and continue to hear.
Name for me one undersized NFL player that ever got killed, either literally or figuratively? Name one undersized player that had real NFL talent that couldn't make it in the NFL because of his size? Jackson like most small players will add at least 15lbs once he maes the pro transition. and he will be among the same size as Michael lewis, dave meggett, wes welker, Dante Hall, Daren Sproles, Warrick Dunn, Tim Dwight, Chad morton, Allen Rossum, none of these player is listed over 5'10/185lbs. Also not that each team still bumps sizes in the media guide. Marvin Harrison listed at 175lbs which I also doubt. flip to the defensive side and you get much of the same from the guys doing alot of the guarding and hitting of the edge players. The best of those cornerbacks have been Aaron Glenn (5'9". 185), Antoine Winfield (5'9", 180), Ray Mickens (5'8", 180), Tyrone Poole (5'8", 188), Ray Buchanan (5'9", 185), Duane Starks (5'10". 174), Kevin Mathis (5'9", 185) and Jason Webster (5'10", 187), Fernando Bryant (5'10", 175), Chris Cash (5'10", 185), and Dre Bly (5',10", 185), Fred Thomas (5'9", 185). I don't understand the logic that passes on talent, heart and swagger for combine results and workouts. Besides, no WR is ever NFL ready when you draft them so why worry about size when you have time.

[MOtorboat]

I'm tired of people justifying this pick by saying Jackson will get killed in the pros. That is one of the most un-football-educated arguments I have ever and continue to hear.
Name for me one undersized NFL player that ever got killed, either literally or figuratively? Name one undersized player that had real NFL talent that couldn't make it in the NFL because of his size? Jackson like most small players will add at least 15lbs once he maes the pro transition. and he will be among the same size as Michael lewis, dave meggett, wes welker, Dante Hall, Daren Sproles, Warrick Dunn, Tim Dwight, Chad morton, Allen Rossum, none of these player is listed over 5'10/185lbs. Also not that each team still bumps sizes in the media guide. Marvin Harrison listed at 175lbs which I also doubt. flip to the defensive side and you get much of the same from the guys doing alot of the guarding and hitting of the edge players. The best of those cornerbacks have been Aaron Glenn (5'9". 185), Antoine Winfield (5'9", 180), Ray Mickens (5'8", 180), Tyrone Poole (5'8", 188), Ray Buchanan (5'9", 185), Duane Starks (5'10". 174), Kevin Mathis (5'9", 185) and Jason Webster (5'10", 187), Fernando Bryant (5'10", 175), Chris Cash (5'10", 185), and Dre Bly (5',10", 185), Fred Thomas (5'9", 185). I don't understand the logic that passes on talent, heart and swagger for combine results and workouts. Besides, no WR is ever NFL ready when you draft them so why worry about size when you have time.

Now you're just stretching.

How about this: DeSean Jackson will suck in the pros.

[sonenlaw]

[QUOTE=MissouriBronc;228603]Now you're just stretching.

QUOTE]

None of your posts provide any relevance to any topic.

Stretching what?

Small players do make it. He went to a team that will use him well. How about this? If jackson makes all-rookie team you don't post on this site again. If he doesn't then I go away forever. Good old fashioned loser leaves town. Deal or No Deal?

[BroncoJoe]

I see a man-crush.

[Ziggy]

[QUOTE=MissouriBronc;228603]Now you're just stretching.

QUOTE]

None of your posts provide any relevance to any topic.

Stretching what?

Small players do make it. He went to a team that will use him well. How about this? If jackson makes all-rookie team you don't post on this site again. If he doesn't then I go away forever. Good old fashioned loser leaves town. Deal or No Deal?

MB has no reason to take that deal. He's established himself here as one of the more knowlegable fans and better posters. You need to earn your stripes before you start calling people out. Go post about 5000 more times with something intelligent to say, and people might take a challenge like that seriously. Until then, you're just like me. Another new guy with an unproven opinion.

[sonenlaw]

[QUOTE=sonenlaw;228622]

MB has no reason to take that deal. He's established himself here as one of the more knowlegable fans and better posters. You need to earn your stripes before you start calling people out. Go post about 5000 more times with something intelligent to say, and people might take a challenge like that seriously. Until then, you're just like me. Another new guy with an unproven opinion.

I may be new to this board, but I'm not new to football. Let's test how much you know and not how much you spew. If you would like the same deal. I say put your knowlege where your post is. If you know what you're talking about then back it up. Let's add legitimacy to the takes on the board. I wish ESPN would do the saem wih the draft gurus. If they miss on a certain number of draft picks, make them go away forever.

So are you taking my deal?

[BroncoJoe]

I may be new to this board, but I'm not new to football. Let's test how much you know and not how much you spew. If you would like the same deal. I say put your knowlege where your post is. If you know what you're talking about then back it up. Let's add legitimacy to the takes on the board. I wish ESPN would do the saem wih the draft gurus. If they miss on a certain number of draft picks, make them go away forever.

So are you taking my deal?

How about we all just vote out who leaves?

Let me show you the door.

[NameUsedBefore]

While we probably wont see DeSean Jackson literally dead on the field, I can't see him (and his character) actually being on a field in five years time.

[claymore]

[QUOTE=Ziggy;228626]

I may be new to this board, but I'm not new to football. Let's test how much you know and not how much you spew. If you would like the same deal. I say put your knowlege where your post is. If you know what you're talking about then back it up. Let's add legitimacy to the takes on the board. I wish ESPN would do the saem wih the draft gurus. If they miss on a certain number of draft picks, make them go away forever.

So are you taking my deal?
If you get this emotional about someone disagreeing with your assessment on D. Jackson, I highly doubt you can ever provide much more than trouble.

Put the assault rifle, and lipstick down. D. Jackson isnt a Bronco, so it doesnt matter. Character is the new theme at Dove Valley.

[sonenlaw]

Charachter doesn't win football games. Players do. Cowboys of the 90's. To this very day the '72 Dolphins celebrate other teams losses.

[claymore]

Charachter doesn't win football games. Players do. Cowboys of the 90's. To this very day the '72 Dolphins celebrate other teams losses.I disagree. Players like Desean try when they feel like it. Players with character & heart try all the time.

[MOtorboat]

To say my posts don't bring anything just means you haven't read around. Thanks to Ziggy for sticking up for me, but I don't think a new member has to earn their stripes, it's just better when you don't call other people out.

I've been over why I don't like DeSean Jackson, if you missed it too bad...this thread had been dead for a few days until you came back to spew your crap some more.

No, I will not stop posting if DeSean Jackson makes the all-rookie team. I don't believe he's going to be a very good professional football player, and clearly, by the way the draft went, I'm not alone.

But keep calling me out for not bringing anything to the site...

[Dreadnought]

Hmmm. Lets see. I think Desean will be a bust. G-Money and MB, whose opinions I have learned to respect tremendously, think Desean will be a bust. MB gets called out by some guy who thinks character doesn't win football games...


...who do you think I believe here?

[BeefStew25]

Mizzou, how about you leave if we go 19-0?

[Requiem / The Dagda]

The only arguments I've seen about DeSean Jackson made on this site are his lack of size and his attitude problem. Other than that, there has been a lack of real quality criticism on him as a player.

[Brand]

As the blind man said: we shall see......

Most of the esoteric and personal opinion pronouncements posted on this forum are either untrue, silly, or moronic, particularly when they refer to a player who was not drafted, or was. There are some few that have good info - if it is not repetitious; there are so many duplicate threads..... Mostly, I just read and grin at most of the drama queens and wonder why anyone would have hurt feeling over a post on a sports' forum. One can just quickly move to a different thread..........

Like this......

[BeefStew25]

As the blind man said: we shall see......

Most of the esoteric and personal opinion pronouncements posted on this forum are either untrue, silly, or moronic, particularly when they refer to a player who was not drafted, or was. There are some few that have good info - if it is not repetitious; there are so many duplicate threads..... Mostly, I just read and grin at most of the drama queens and wonder why anyone would have hurt feeling over a post on a sports' forum. One can just quickly move to a different thread..........

Like this......

You offended me.

[WARHORSE]

You offended me.


This quote is OFFENSIVE!!!!!


:laugh:

[MOtorboat]

The only arguments I've seen about DeSean Jackson made on this site are his lack of size and his attitude problem. Other than that, there has been a lack of real quality criticism on him as a player.

I did make the argument that Royal's return numbers are better than Jackson's, and Jackson didn't return kicks in college while Royal did...

[Dreadnought]

I did make the argument that Royal's return numbers are better than Jackson's, and Jackson didn't return kicks in college while Royal did...

I think you are the recognized expert on the merits of all short ballplayers, frankly.

[dogfish]

I think you are the recognized expert on the merits of all short ballplayers, frankly.

that was a low blow, dread-- and you have to get pretty low to hit below the belt on a midget. . .

[BeefStew25]

This quote is OFFENSIVE!!!!!


:laugh:

War, if you were a woman, I would probably ignore you. But you aren't. And for that, I :salute: you!

[Requiem / The Dagda]

I did make the argument that Royal's return numbers are better than Jackson's, and Jackson didn't return kicks in college while Royal did...

Once again, how is that an indictment against Jackson? It's a reason for Royal providing more versatility for us.

[WARHORSE]

War, if you were a woman, I would probably ignore you. But you aren't. And for that, I :salute: you!

If I were a woman you would only ignore me until I shook my ta-tas. After that, you would be reduced to a looming, drooling knuckle dragger who followed me like a stalker.........thats what kind of power my ta-tas would have.:coffee:


.........er.........if I had ta-tas.:shocked:




:coffee:

[MOtorboat]

Once again, how is that an indictment against Jackson? It's a reason for Royal providing more versatility for us.

Thus why he was taken over Jackson, Sweed and Kelly. The subject of the thread.

I don't think Jackson will be a good pro, but that's intuition, and I think he's not strong enough and he won't be faster than a lot of guys, he'll be about the same speed. He'll be a return man, and I'm not sure if he'll be good. That is all. I don't hate DeSean Jackson, I don't hate anyone that doesn't like him, I just feel like he won't be that good in the pros.

I'm glad Denver took Royal.

[Dreadnought]

.........er.........if I had ta-tas.:shocked:

:coffee:

My understanding is that there are a few guys who post here who are pretty well endowed in the ta-ta department. I'll not name names though.

[Requiem / The Dagda]

Thus why he was taken over Jackson, Sweed and Kelly. The subject of the thread.

I'm not so certain Royal's ability to double as a kick-off returner and punt returner was the reason he was taken over the aforementioned. I'm sure there was a lot more to it through the grading process than that.


I don't think Jackson will be a good pro, but that's intuition, and I think he's not strong enough and he won't be faster than a lot of guys, he'll be about the same speed.

Jackson isn't very strong, but how won't he be faster than most guys? He had the best separation ability (in my opinion) out of any receiver in this past draft and has 4.35 speed. I think he'll be faster than most guys -- that's a given.


He'll be a return man, and I'm not sure if he'll be good. That is all. I don't hate DeSean Jackson, I don't hate anyone that doesn't like him, I just feel like he won't be that good in the pros.

Of course he'll do returns, but I think a lot of people are seriously underestimating what he can do as a sub-package receiver -- especially in the type of offense Philadelphia has. Get him in the slot and put him in the open field and he's going to be lethal.


I'm glad Denver took Royal.

I'm happy with Royal's selection as well, but I think there are more convenient ways to go about criticizing DeSean Jackson.

[lex]

The only arguments I've seen about DeSean Jackson made on this site are his lack of size and his attitude problem. Other than that, there has been a lack of real quality criticism on him as a player.

OK, when Cal played USC in 2006, USC banged him around a little bit and Jackson just disappeared. And while I didnt watch every Cal game, not once did I ever see that he was past this kind of thing in 2007. He hasnt been willing to stick his nose back in there after getting thumped around. And in the NFL, its not like they get slower and dont hit as hard. Everyone can hit like the defenders on USC could...and that was just one college game; imagine what its going to be like when week in and week out, its more intense than the USC game. This is something Jackson has to overcome. He has to show that he has.

[BroncoJoe]

Some people have a need to argue about anything.

[Requiem / The Dagda]

OK, when Cal played USC in 2006, USC banged him around a little bit and Jackson just disappeared. And while I didnt watch every Cal game, not once did I ever see that he was past this kind of thing. He hasnt been willing to stick his nose back in there after getting thumped around. And in the NFL, its not like they get slower and dont hit as hard. Everyone can hit like the defenders on USC could...and that was just one college game imagine what its going to be like when week in and week out, its more intense than the USC game. This is something Jackson has to overcome. He has to show that he has.

I'd put this in line with the "lack of size/physical abilities" part of my prior statement -- but it's actually the sort of criticism I'm looking for. Thank you, Lex.

[dogfish]

Some people have a need to argue about anything.

oh yea??


that's BS. . . :tsk:

[lex]

I'd put this in line with the "lack of size/physical abilities" part of my prior statement -- but it's actually the sort of criticism I'm looking for. Thank you, Lex.

No, he's too small is more along the lines that he is more apt to get injured or goes down too easy because he's not strong enough. What Im describing is more along the lines of being intimidated. There have been smaller players who arent intimidated. But theres something to what youre saying in that if he had more bulk he might he might be more confident where contact is concerned. The problem is, that if he puts on bulk, does he also lose speed and agility? If he needs to add bulk to solve the problem Ive described, theres a risk of him losing what makes him good.

[Requiem / The Dagda]

No, he's too small is more along the lines that he is more apt to get injured or goes down too easy because he's not strong enough. What Im describing is more along the lines of being intimidated. There have been smaller players who arent intimidated. But theres something to what youre saying in that if he had more bulk he might he might be more confident where contact is concerned. The problem is, that if he puts on bulk, does he also lose speed and agility? If he needs to add bulk to solve the problem Ive described, theres a risk of him losing what makes him good.

Ah, mental toughness. Gotcha!

[shank]

jeremy bloom failed in philly, and i think he was more complete than jackson is as an nfl football player.

not directly comparing them, or saying jackson will fail, i just don't see how he was ever a 1st rounder in people's eyes, and am SO glad we didn't take him. we could have had a great draft at every other spot, but if we took desean i'd have felt ill.

i think his ego and work ethic will be his downfall. no desire to get better, limited work in the weight room means he doesn't get bigger-> injuries likely, and then work ethic comes back into play... it takes a lot to come back from injuries and get to 100%, and from what i've seen, read, heard, i doubt that he's tough/motivated enough to work through tough times and pain, especially if he's just a returner and spot duty receiver. i don't know if his head will fit in that hat...

[underrated29]

can jackson block???

I dont know but our recievers have to block here in our system. I atleast know royal is willing to block- how good is he at it, not sure, probably not great but he wont shy away from it.

[topscribe]

Thus why he was taken over Jackson, Sweed and Kelly. The subject of the thread.

I don't think Jackson will be a good pro, but that's intuition, and I think he's not strong enough and he won't be faster than a lot of guys, he'll be about the same speed. He'll be a return man, and I'm not sure if he'll be good. That is all. I don't hate DeSean Jackson, I don't hate anyone that doesn't like him, I just feel like he won't be that good in the pros.

I'm glad Denver took Royal.

I'm glad they took Fast Eddie, too! :dance:

-----

[TXBRONC]

I'm tired of people justifying this pick by saying Jackson will get killed in the pros. That is one of the most un-football-educated arguments I have ever and continue to hear.
Name for me one undersized NFL player that ever got killed, either literally or figuratively? Name one undersized player that had real NFL talent that couldn't make it in the NFL because of his size? Jackson like most small players will add at least 15lbs once he maes the pro transition. and he will be among the same size as Michael lewis, dave meggett, wes welker, Dante Hall, Daren Sproles, Warrick Dunn, Tim Dwight, Chad morton, Allen Rossum, none of these player is listed over 5'10/185lbs. Also not that each team still bumps sizes in the media guide. Marvin Harrison listed at 175lbs which I also doubt. flip to the defensive side and you get much of the same from the guys doing alot of the guarding and hitting of the edge players. The best of those cornerbacks have been Aaron Glenn (5'9". 185), Antoine Winfield (5'9", 180), Ray Mickens (5'8", 180), Tyrone Poole (5'8", 188), Ray Buchanan (5'9", 185), Duane Starks (5'10". 174), Kevin Mathis (5'9", 185) and Jason Webster (5'10", 187), Fernando Bryant (5'10", 175), Chris Cash (5'10", 185), and Dre Bly (5',10", 185), Fred Thomas (5'9", 185). I don't understand the logic that passes on talent, heart and swagger for combine results and workouts. Besides, no WR is ever NFL ready when you draft them so why worry about size when you have time.

Well football accumen somewhere between 0 and 1 for several reasaons.

1. ALL of guys you have listed are still bigger than Desean Jackson anywhere from 10 to 20 lbs or more.

2. Several of those guys are basically just return specialists.

3. Finally many of them are defensive backs or were defensive backs. Maybe you're just unaware of this that's still not same as playing wide receiver in this League.

Come back when you actually have knowledgeable argument. :coffee:

[TXBRONC]

[QUOTE=Ziggy;228626]

I may be new to this board, but I'm not new to football. Let's test how much you know and not how much you spew. If you would like the same deal. I say put your knowlege where your post is. If you know what you're talking about then back it up. Let's add legitimacy to the takes on the board. I wish ESPN would do the saem wih the draft gurus. If they miss on a certain number of draft picks, make them go away forever.

So are you taking my deal?

You could have fooled me.

[Sassy]

:cool: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rloo1rd4Bl4

For those of you that haven't seen this...Eddie Royal #4
I like this kid!

(I apologize if it's been posted...but glancing through the thread I didn't see it.)

[ApaOps5]

At first I was questioning the pick. But that was based on limited knowledge of Royal. I think he is the much better pick then Jackson.

Jackson will get eaten up by physical corners and won't get off the line. Royal is very strong, 24 reps on the bench at the combine. Add that with speed and I really think Denver has in Royal what they didn't have in the past. A guy who can break free of a jam and fly down field. Plus he is a legit threat on special teams for once. He comes from VT and they have a great reputation for special teams.

Anyways thats my take and I really think he will be a bright spot on the roster. But of course he could be the next Claw Watts.

[Sassy]

That video gets me fired up for Bronco football!

[TXBRONC]

At first I was questioning the pick. But that was based on limited knowledge of Royal. I think he is the much better pick then Jackson.

Jackson will get eaten up by physical corners and won't get off the line. Royal is very strong, 24 reps on the bench at the combine. Add that with speed and I really think Denver has in Royal what they didn't have in the past. A guy who can break free of a jam and fly down field. Plus he is a legit threat on special teams for once. He comes from VT and they have a great reputation for special teams.

Anyways thats my take and I really think he will be a bright spot on the roster. But of course he could be the next Claw Watts.

Unless Jackson gains some size I don't think he'll be anything more than a 3rd receiver. Royal has enough size that he could end up being the number two receiver in the starting line up. I'm not saying he will but I do think there is higher probability with him being as starting wide receiver than there is with Jackson.

[Sassy]

Our ST is sorely in need of someone with the skills that it looks like Royal has...we have been complaining about ST's for how long now? Ever since Darrien Gordon? Anyway...with the health of Marsh up in the air...we probably could use him at WR as well...

Watch him in the video...he has two, three, four guys around him...within grabbing distance...they miss...or don't get near him...and he cuts and is gone!

[TXBRONC]

Our ST is sorely in need of someone with the skills that it looks like Royal has...we have been complaining about ST's for how long now? Ever since Darrien Gordon? Anyway...with the health of Marsh up in the air...we probably could use him at WR as well...

Watch him in the video...he has two, three, four guys around him...within grabbing distance...they miss...or don't get near him...and he cuts and is gone!

I think there are two main reasons that Royal was selected. First he was a terrific return specialist in college. Second he was also solid wide receiver in college as well.

[Cugel]

I don't mind Eddie Royal over Jackson, what I do mind is Eddie Royal over Sweed. I think Limas Sweed is going to be a good receiver in this league. The problem is that Shanahan doesn't want to draft a good receiver in this league at the moment, he wants to draft the best return man in this league. If Eddie Royal can be a decent receiver and a great return man, I will be really happy with this pick. The problem Eddie has is that our blocking is really bad on Special Teams plays. Even if you have Devin Hester back there, if the blocking is bad, the return man will be made to look bad.

I hope for the best for this guy.

That pretty much sums it up. :coffee:

You have to remember who the special teams players are: they are basically, your backup LBs and S's, CBs.

Now Denver has had virtually no talent to spare in recent years. Their backups haven't been good enough to make a lot of teams. Ergo, the Special teams coverage and blocking has left much to be desired.

Can't cover and can't block on special teams. Put Devin Hester on the Broncos and nobody would be talking about him the last 3 years. He'd still be good, but certainly not a game breaker like he is with Chicago.

How good Royal is this year will depend a lot on how good the backup LBs and safeties are, not just whether he has skill or not.

[Requiem / The Dagda]

Royal didn't really stand out as a threat in college as a receiver, but when given the opportunity -- he made the most of it. VT is sort of crazy with their offensive approaches, but he was a great dynamic for that offense. I'm in agreement that Royal's ability to become a SE in the NFL probably had him ranked higher on Denver's draft board, I don't think Jackson would ever be a SE in the NFL, unless he was forced to in injury. Regardless, I'm excited about Royal. He adds a dynamic to the offense we need and to our special teams game. Go Eddie!

[Stargazer]

Watch him in the video...he has two, three, four guys around him...within grabbing distance...they miss...or don't get near him...and he cuts and is gone!

I don't agree. He doesn't have that special gear.

But, since he's a Bronco I hope he scores a lot of TD's

[topscribe]

I don't agree. He doesn't have that special gear.

But, since he's a Bronco I hope he scores a lot of TD's

You might not think Fast Eddie has that "special gear," but I have seen more
than one highlight where the announcers were absolutely gushing over his
speed. Check out his 40 times. They are almost the equivalent of Jackson's.
And he has 20 pounds more muscle than Jackson to maintiain that speed with
pads on.

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[Stargazer]

You might not think Fast Eddie has that "special gear," but I have seen more
than one highlight where the announcers were gushing over his speed. Check
out his 40 times. They are almost the equivalent of Jackson's. And he has 20
pounds more muscle than Jackson to maintiain that speed with pads on.

-----

I have watched a lot of ACC games.

That is all. I still don't believe he has that extra gear.

Can't complain too much now and I'm not going to b*tch forever. Draft is behind us. Hope he scores a lot of TD's.

[TXBRONC]

I have watched a lot of ACC games.

That is all. I still don't believe he has that extra gear.

Can't complain too much now and I'm not going to b*tch forever. Draft is behind us. Hope he scores a lot of TD's.


I don't get see that much of the college game but from highlights it looked like he got good separation from the defender.

[Mike]

Our ST is sorely in need of someone with the skills that it looks like Royal has...we have been complaining about ST's for how long now? Ever since Darrien Gordon? Anyway...with the health of Marsh up in the air...we probably could use him at WR as well...

Watch him in the video...he has two, three, four guys around him...within grabbing distance...they miss...or don't get near him...and he cuts and is gone!

I still believe that the problem hasn't been with the returner as much as it has been the blockers or scheme.

I like Royal and look forward to seeing him play though.

[Ziggy]

I don't agree. He doesn't have that special gear.

But, since he's a Bronco I hope he scores a lot of TD's

Let me first say I'm a fan of the Royal pick. Looking at the video though, he looks to have good speed, but no extra burst for separation. It looks like he takes good angles and runs fast, but nothing in the way of that 'afterburner' type burst in those runs.

For an example of the kind of extra gear I'm talking about, check out these clips of Anthony Aldrige, one of our UDFA. You'll see people within range, and then he kicks in the afterburners, and he's gone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ff7fS06deQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPW61dJaFi4

[topscribe]

Let me first say I'm a fan of the Royal pick. Looking at the video though, he looks to have good speed, but no extra burst for separation. It looks like he takes good angles and runs fast, but nothing in the way of that 'afterburner' type burst in those runs.

For an example of the kind of extra gear I'm talking about, check out these clips of Anthony Aldrige, one of our UDFA. You'll see people within range, and then he kicks in the afterburners, and he's gone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ff7fS06deQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPW61dJaFi4

I'll tell you what, Zig. Young had better be working to keep his vow to add
a few pounds. If he and/or Hall can't hit the middle effectively once in a
while, then they look to be in serious jeopardy of being gone because
Alridge can do the outside as well or better than they, IMO.

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[Ziggy]

I'll tell you what, Zig. Young had better be working to keep his vow to add
a few pounds. If he and/or Hall can't hit the middle effectively once in a
while, then they look to be in serious jeopardy of being gone because
Alridge can do the outside as well or better than they, IMO.

-----

I agree completely. Watching Aldrige reminds me a lot of a kid named Eric Metcalf. I'm sure you remember his playing days in Cleveland. He was a great situational weapon. With Shanny's offensive prowess, I'm sure he could find ways to get this guy the ball out in space. It would be fun to watch.