Thread: Darian Stewart more than a safety valve for Broncos

In an effort to create competition and microwave player evaluations, the Broncos held joint practices with the 49ers this past week. The prevailing silence was unsettling because it sat in stark contrast to the chirping of the 5,000 fans during training camp. There were no fights. No pushing. No shoving. And little talking, save for San Francisco linebacker NaVorro Bowman accusing an official of a hometown call on a juggling reception by Denver's Cody Latimer.

With one play, Darian Stewart returned the cacophony to the Broncos sideline by intercepting a pass by the 49ers' Colin Kaepernick. Denver's defense boasts 12 sacks this preseason, and with tempered optimism, general manager John Elway said it is the most talented defense since he arrived in 2011.

Interestingly, there is only one prominent new starter: Stewart. The conclusion remains easy to draw: Wade Phillips' 3-4 defense fits the personnel better, and Stewart's addition fortified a secondary that aims to be the NFL's best.

"No doubt," Stewart said. "That's the goal."

rest - http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci...-valve-broncos