Lonestar
05-15-2009, 03:25 AM
by Sports Xchange
Updated: May 15, 2009, 1:40 AM EST
The offensive line doesn't register on the team's list of concerns entering training camp.
Denver had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL last season, and it returns intact. Last year the Broncos allowed a franchise-record low 12 sacks and were tied for second in the NFL with 4.8 yards per rushing attempt.
Once center Casey Wiegmann decided to return for another season, the offensive line was solidified as perhaps the strength of the team.
"We hope so," right tackle Ryan Harris said. "I think it's unique when you get all five guys back, I don't think that happens a lot."
The Broncos have had some upheaval at just about every other position this offseason. Everyone on offense and defense is also learning a new system. The linemen are learning too, but coming back for a second straight year together helps the transition.
Wiegmann is the key to the communication on the line. The longtime veteran, who made his first Pro Bowl last year, stepped in for an injured Tom Nalen during training camp and the other linemen followed his lead.
"When you have someone you're familiar with like that, the communication is short," Harris said. "Instead of saying 'We have to go there,' you can say 'Right,' or 'Left,' or something that is familiar to that person."
The line started all last year together. They might not be as lucky this season to stay relatively injury free, but their presence will help the running game and whoever starts at quarterback. The continuity on the line is immediately evident in practice.
"They just work together, and their communication is amazing," said rookie center Blake Schlueter, a seventh-round pick. "You can tell they've been together a while. They all know what the other person is going to do."
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/4809722/Denver-Broncos-Inside-Slant
Updated: May 15, 2009, 1:40 AM EST
The offensive line doesn't register on the team's list of concerns entering training camp.
Denver had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL last season, and it returns intact. Last year the Broncos allowed a franchise-record low 12 sacks and were tied for second in the NFL with 4.8 yards per rushing attempt.
Once center Casey Wiegmann decided to return for another season, the offensive line was solidified as perhaps the strength of the team.
"We hope so," right tackle Ryan Harris said. "I think it's unique when you get all five guys back, I don't think that happens a lot."
The Broncos have had some upheaval at just about every other position this offseason. Everyone on offense and defense is also learning a new system. The linemen are learning too, but coming back for a second straight year together helps the transition.
Wiegmann is the key to the communication on the line. The longtime veteran, who made his first Pro Bowl last year, stepped in for an injured Tom Nalen during training camp and the other linemen followed his lead.
"When you have someone you're familiar with like that, the communication is short," Harris said. "Instead of saying 'We have to go there,' you can say 'Right,' or 'Left,' or something that is familiar to that person."
The line started all last year together. They might not be as lucky this season to stay relatively injury free, but their presence will help the running game and whoever starts at quarterback. The continuity on the line is immediately evident in practice.
"They just work together, and their communication is amazing," said rookie center Blake Schlueter, a seventh-round pick. "You can tell they've been together a while. They all know what the other person is going to do."
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/4809722/Denver-Broncos-Inside-Slant