2010 Denver Broncos season
Encyclopedia
The Denver Broncos
season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League
, the 51st overall and the 10th playing their home games at INVESCO Field at Mile High
. The off-season was marked by the draft selections of Georgia Tech
wide receiver
Demaryius Thomas
and All-American Florida
quarterback
Tim Tebow
, as well as season-ending injuries to All-Pro
linebacker
Elvis Dumervil
and free agent running back
LenDale White
. The team failed to improve on its 8–8 record from 2009
, and set a new franchise record for losses in a single season, with a 4–12 record. The regular season was marked by a videotaping scandal dubbed Spygate II and the firing of head coach Josh McDaniels.
Toney Baker, offensive tackles Kirk Barton
and Tyler Polumbus
, linebacker
Akin Ayodele
and wide receiver
Patrick Carter.
The next round of roster cuts occurred on September 3, as the team prepared to trim their roster to 53 players before the September 4 deadline. Nose tackle Chris Baker, tight end
s Kory Sperry
and Nathan Overbay, offensive tackle Paul Duncan, wide receiver Alric Arnett, linebacker Johnny Williams and one of the team's seventh-round draft picks, defensive end
Jammie Kirlew
, were all released.
On September 4, linebacker Darrell Reid
, defensive end Jarvis Green
, tight end Marquez Branson
, center
Seth Olsen
, wide receiver Britt Davis
, tight end Riar Geer, linebackers Kevin Alexander
and Worrell Williams
, safety Kyle McCarthy
and nose tackle Jeff Stehle were released, with the latter five players assigned to the practice squad the following day. Other notable transactions that occurred on September 4 involved the team placing defensive end/linebacker Elvis Dumervil
and wide receiver Brandon Stokley
on the Injured Reserve, trading cornerback
Alphonso Smith
to the Detroit Lions
for tight end Dan Gronkowski
, as well as placing undrafted defensive end Ben Garland on the Military reserve
list.
On September 7, defensive end Le Kevin Smith
was released.
in the International Series
at Wembley Stadium
in London, England. The game occurred during Week 8 on Sunday, October 31, at 11:00 am MDT (5:00 pm GMT
), and was aired by CBS
in the United States. The 49ers were the designated home team for this game.
The remainder of the Broncos' schedule was announced on April 20, 2010.
LEGEND:
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Broncos trailed late in the second quarter, as Jaguars' quarterback David Garrard
completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to tight end Marcedes Lewis
. The Broncos would answer prior to halftime, as quarterback Kyle Orton
found wide receiver Jabar Gaffney
on an 8-yard touchdown pass. Jacksonville would re-claim the lead in the third quarter, as Garrard hooked up with Lewis again on a 10-yard touchdown pass. The Broncos would respond, with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
. However, Jacksonville grabbed the lead again, with a 45-yard field goal by placekicker Josh Scobee
. The Broncos would catch up in the fourth quarter, with a 54-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
. However, Jacksonville got the last laugh, as Garrard completed a 24-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kassim Osgood
.
With the loss, the Broncos began its season at 0–1.
. In the first quarter, the Broncos took the early lead, as quarterback Kyle Orton
completed a 13-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eddie Royal
, followed in the second quarter by a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Correll Buckhalter
and a 20-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
. Seattle got on the board in the third quarter, when quarterback Matt Hasselbeck
completed an 11-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ben Obomanu
, but the Broncos replied with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
. The Broncos increased their lead in the fourth quarter, when Orton threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas
. Seattle replied, with Hasselbeck scrambling 20 yards for a touchdown, but the Broncos' lead was too much for Seattle to overcome.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 1–1.
. Prior to the game, a moment of silence was held for wide receiver Kenny McKinley
, who passed away on September 20, with the team paying tribute to him by placing a number 11 decal on their helmets in his honor. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early when Colts' placekicker Adam Vinatieri
nailed field goals from 38 and 33 yards. This was followed in the second quarter by quarterback Peyton Manning
throwing a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Austin Collie
. The Broncos got on the board, with placekicker Matt Prater
nailing a 25-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Broncos cut the lead, when quarterback Kyle Orton
completed a 48-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
, but Indianapolis replied, with Manning throwing a 9-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Blair White
. The Broncos responded, with Prater hitting a 34-yard field goal, but they trailed further in the fourth quarter, when Manning found Collie on a 23-yard touchdown pass, sealing the win for Indianapolis.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 1–2.
for an AFC duel with the Tennessee Titans
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Broncos took the lead in the second quarter, as quarterback Kyle Orton
threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eddie Royal
. Tennessee responded, with quarterback Vince Young
throwing an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kenny Britt
. The Broncos would retake the lead, with a 36-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
, but Tennessee replied, when placekicker Rob Bironas
nailed an incredible 55-yard field goal just before halftime. In the third quarter, the Broncos took the lead again, with another 36-yard field goal by Prater, but Titans' wide receiver Marc Mariani
returned the ensuing kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown, putting Tennessee ahead 17–13. Tennessee's lead was narrowed, with a 35-yard field goal by Prater, but was increased again with a 46-yard field goal by Bironas. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos pulled ahead, when Orton completed a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Correll Buckhalter
. After Tennessee fumbled the ensuing kickoff, the Broncos increased their lead with 28 seconds remaining, with a 36-yard field goal by Prater. The Broncos' defense thwarted Tennessee's final desperation drive of the game.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 2–2.
for an AFC duel with the Baltimore Ravens
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, with Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco
scrambling for a 1-yard touchdown, followed in the second quarter by a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Ray Rice
, and a 37-yard field goal by placekicker Billy Cundiff
. The Broncos got on the board, when quarterback Kyle Orton
threw a 42-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
. After a scoreless third quarter, the Broncos fell further behind in the fourth quarter, with another 1-yard touchdown run by Rice. The Broncos replied, with a 38-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
, but a 30-yard touchdown run by running back Willis McGahee
put the Ravens' up 31–10. The Broncos responded, with Orton finding Lloyd again on a 44-yard touchdown pass, but Baltimore's lead was too much to overcome.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 2–3.
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Jets grabbed the lead in the second quarter, as quarterback Mark Sanchez
threw a 32-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Braylon Edwards
. The Broncos responded, with quarterback Tim Tebow
scrambling for a 5-yard touchdown run. The Broncos grabbed the lead just before halftime, with a 59-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
. In the third quarter, the Jets responded, with a 56-yard field goal by placekicker Nick Folk
. The Broncos took the lead, when quarterback Kyle Orton
threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas
. The Jets responded midway through the fourth quarter, after running back LaDainian Tomlinson
ran for a 20-yard touchdown. The Broncos grabbed the lead again, with a 48-yard field goal by Prater. However, following a pass-interference penalty on Broncos' cornerback Renaldo Hill
near the goal line, the Jets pulled ahead, with a Tomlinson 2-yard touchdown run. The Jets' defense thwarted the Broncos' last drive of the game.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 2–4.
rivalry match against the Oakland Raiders
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, as Raiders' quarterback Jason Campbell
completed a 43-yard touchdown pass to tight end Zach Miller
. Oakland scored again, after cornerback Chris Johnson
returned an interception by quarterback Kyle Orton
30 yards for a touchdown. This was followed by a 4-yard touchdown run by running back Darren McFadden
and a 31-yard field goal by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski
. Things got much worse for the Broncos in the second quarter, as Campbell threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to McFadden, followed by a McFadden 4-yard touchdown run that put Oakland up 38–0 midway through the second quarter. The Broncos would finally get on the board, with Orton finding running back Knowshon Moreno
on a 7-yard touchdown pass, followed in the third quarter by a 27-yard touchdown pass from Orton to Moreno. Oakland struck back, with a 1-yard touchdown run by fullback Marcel Reece
, followed by a 57-yard touchdown run by McFadden and a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Michael Bush
. Both teams were held scoreless in the fourth quarter.
The Broncos not only fell to 2–5, but suffered their worst defeat since a 55–10 loss to the San Francisco 49ers
in Super Bowl XXIV
. The loss also tied the highest point total that the Broncos have allowed in a single game, since a 59–7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs
in .
Following their disastrous home loss to the Raiders, the Broncos flew to London, England, for an International Series
contest with the San Francisco 49ers
at Wembley Stadium
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, with a 34-yard field goal by 49ers' placekicker Joe Nedney
. After a scoreless second quarter, the Broncos grabbed the lead in the third quarter, when quarterback Tim Tebow
scrambled for a 1-yard touchdown run, followed in the fourth quarter by a 32-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
. However, the Broncos suddenly fell behind, with 49ers' quarterback Troy Smith
scrambling for a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by his 28-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Michael Crabtree
, and a 3-yard touchdown run by running back Frank Gore
. The Broncos tried to rally when quarterback Kyle Orton
threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
(with a blocked extra-point attempt), but San Francisco's defense stood their ground.
With the loss, the Broncos went into their bye
week at 2–6.
Less than a month later, the Broncos were subjected to a videotaping scandal involving the team's director of video operations that occurred during a 49ers' walkthrough practice, one day before the game.
duel against the Kansas City Chiefs
, hoping to snap a 4-game losing streak. In the first quarter, quarterback Kyle Orton
, playing on his 28th birthday, threw three touchdown passes: a 17-yarder to running back Knowshon Moreno
, a 6-yarder to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
and a 40-yarder to wide receiver Jabar Gaffney
. In the second quarter, quarterback Tim Tebow
ran for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by linebacker Jason Hunter returning a fumble 75 yards for a touchdown, giving the Broncos a commanding 35–0 lead before the two-minute warning. Kansas City got on the board, with a 5-yard touchdown run from running back Jamaal Charles
, followed by a 40-yard field goal by placekicker Ryan Succop
just before halftime. In the third quarter, Tim Tebow threw his first touchdown pass – a 3-yarder to fullback Spencer Larsen
, but Kansas City responded, with quarterback Matt Cassel
throwing a 15-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Dwayne Bowe
. In the fourth quarter, Orton threw his fourth touchdown pass of the game – a 15-yarder to Lloyd. Kansas City responded, with Cassel throwing a pair of touchdown passes – an 11-yarder to wide receiver Chris Chambers
, followed by a 22-yarder to Bowe (both with failed two-point conversion attempts), but the outcome had already been decided in the Broncos' favor.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 3–6.
for an AFC West
duel with the San Diego Chargers
on Monday Night Football
. The Broncos delivered the opening strike in the first quarter, with a 4-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
. However, San Diego answered, with quarterback Philip Rivers
completing a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Malcom Floyd
. San Diego took the lead in the second quarter, as fullback Mike Tolbert
ran for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by Rivers completing a 40-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Patrick Crayton
. San Diego would add to their lead in the third quarter, as Rivers completed a 57-yard touchdown pass to running back Darren Sproles
. In the fourth quarter, San Diego continued their dominating night, with Rivers completing a 3-yard touchdown pass to fullback Jacob Hester
. The Broncos tried to rally, as quarterback Kyle Orton
found wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
on a 13-yard touchdown pass, but San Diego's lead was too much to overcome.
With the loss, Denver fell to 3–7.
debacle in San Diego and subsequent videotaping scandal, the Broncos returned home for an interconference match against the St. Louis Rams
. In the first quarter, the Broncos jumped out to a 10–0 lead, with a 4-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
, followed by a 49-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
. St. Louis responded, with quarterback Sam Bradford
throwing a 36-yard touchdown pass to tight end Michael Hoomanawanui
. In the second quarter, The Broncos took a 13–7 lead, with a 40-yard field goal by Prater. However, St. Louis would reel off 26 unanswered points, starting off with a pair of touchdown passes from Bradford to tight end Billy Bajema
– 2 and 26 yards – the latter with a missed extra point, followed by a pair of field goals from placekicker Josh Brown – 28 and 37 yards – before halftime. In the third quarter, St. Louis continued their offensive onslaught, with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Kenneth Darby
, giving St. Louis a 33–13 lead. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos snapped the Rams' streak of 26 unanswered points, with quarterback Kyle Orton
throwing a 41-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
, but St. Louis responded with a 26-yard field goal from Brown. Trailing 36–20 with four minutes remaining, the Broncos tried to rally, with Orton throwing two touchdown passes – a 16-yarder to wide receiver Eddie Royal
(with a failed two-point conversion attempt), followed by a 5-yarder to Lloyd, but the Broncos' rally attempt was cut short by the Rams' defense.
With the loss, the Broncos dropped to 3–8, matching their loss total from the previous two seasons.
for a AFC West rivalry rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs
. The Broncos trailed in the first quarter, as Chiefs' quarterback Matt Cassel
threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to tight end Leonard Pope
, in what would be the game's only touchdown. The Broncos responded in the second quarter, with placekicker Matt Prater
nailing a 25-yard field goal, but Kansas City countered, with a 47-yard field goal by placekicker Ryan Succop
just before halftime. After a scoreless third quarter, the Broncos cut into the lead with a 41-yard field goal by Prater, but Kansas City's defense prevented anything else from happening.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 3–9, and were officially eliminated from postseason contention. One day later, head coach Josh McDaniels
was fired, and replaced by running backs coach Eric Studesville
on an interim basis for the remainder of the season.
for an interconference duel with the Arizona Cardinals
, whom the Broncos had never lost to in the teams' previous eight meetings. The Broncos took the early lead in the first quarter, with a 32-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
. However, Arizona responded, as placekicker Jay Feely
would account for 22 unanswered points – a 36-yard field goal in the first quarter, a 48-yard field goal, 5-yard touchdown run off a fake field goal and a 55-yard field goal in the second quarter, a 23-yard field goal in the third quarter, and a 49-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. A 30-yard field goal by Hauschka would cut the lead to 22–6, but Arizona would answer, with an 8-yard touchdown run by running back Tim Hightower
. The Broncos would respond, with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Knowshon Moreno
, but Arizona pulled away, with Hightower running for a 35-yard touchdown, followed by linebacker Daryl Washington
returning an interception 40 yards (and defensive end Darnell Dockett
recovering a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown).
With the loss, the Broncos not only dropped to 3–10, but also suffered their first-ever loss to the Cardinals. The loss also guarantees that the Broncos will finish in fourth-place in the AFC West
at the end of the season.
divisional rematch with the Oakland Raiders
. In the first quarter, Oakland grabbed the early lead, with a 71-yard touchdown run by wide receiver Jacoby Ford
. The Broncos responded, when quarterback Tim Tebow
, starting in place of an injured Kyle Orton
, scrambled for a 40-yard touchdown run. The Broncos grabbed the lead, when Tebow threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
, but Oakland responded, with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Michael Bush
. In the second quarter, the Broncos lead again, with a 46-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
, but Oakland would tie the game, with a 49-yard field goal by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski
just before halftime. In the third quarter, Oakland grabbed the lead, with a 35-yard field goal by Janikowski. The Broncos responded, with a 35-yard field goal by Hauschka. Oakland lead again, with a 47-yard field goal by Janikowski. In the fourth quarter, Oakland widened their lead, when quarterback Jason Campbell
threw a 73-yard touchdown pass to fullback Marcel Reece
. The Broncos narrowed the lead, with a 45-yard field goal by Hauschka, but Oakland pulled away, when linebacker Quentin Groves
tackled running back Correll Buckhalter
in the end zone for a safety, followed by a 1-yard touchdown by Bush.
With the loss, the Broncos not only dropped to 3–11, but also tied their franchise record for losses in a season.
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, after a 3-yard touchdown run by Texans' running back Arian Foster
, followed in the second quarter by a 3-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matt Schaub
to tight end Owen Daniels
, and a 34-yard field goal by placekicker Neil Rackers
, giving Houston a 17–0 halftime lead. The Broncos got on the board in the third quarter, with a 6-yard touchdown run by running back Correll Buckhalter
, but Houston responded, with a 54-yard field goal by Rackers. The Broncos cut into the Texans' lead, with a 27-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
, but Houston responded with a 57-yard field goal by Rackers, giving Houston a 23–10 lead. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos staged a rally, with a 23-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tim Tebow
to Buckhalter, followed by Tebow scrambling for a 6-yard touchdown run, giving the Broncos a 24–23 lead with three minutes remaining. The Broncos' defense thwarted Houston's final drive.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 4–11.
divisional rematch with the San Diego Chargers
. The Broncos took the lead in the first quarter, with a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tim Tebow
to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
. However, San Diego responded in the second quarter, with a 27-yard touchdown run by running back Ryan Mathews
, followed by field goals from 42, 45 and 47 yards by placekicker Nate Kaeding
. San Diego added to their lead in the third quarter, with a 12-yard touchdown run by Mathews, followed by a 37-yard field goal by Kaeding. The Broncos narrowed San Diego's lead, with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Tebow to wide receiver Eric Decker
, but was increased in the fourth quarter, with a 31-yard touchdown run by Mathews. Trailing 33–14 with 7:55 remaining in the game, the Broncos immediately responded, when kick returner Cassius Vaughn
returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown, followed by a 6-yard touchdown scramble by Tebow with 26 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Following Tebow's touchdown run, the Broncos recovered the onside kick, but two desperation hail mary passes by Tebow were unsuccessful, sealing the win for San Diego.
With the loss, the Broncos finished the 2010 season at 4–12, setting a new franchise record for losses in a single season.
, media reports stated the Broncos had come under investigation from the NFL
, following a videotaping incident similar to the New England Patriots' videotaping controversy of 2007. The Denver Post
reported that Steve Scarnecchia, the team's director of video operations hired by then-head coach Josh McDaniels
in 2009, videotaped a San Francisco 49ers
' walkthrough practice, prior to the teams' Week 8 game at Wembley Stadium
in London, England. Scarnecchia, the son of New England Patriots
offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia
, worked in the Patriots' (2001–2004) and the New York Jets
' (2006–2007) video departments prior to joining the Broncos in 2009. The Denver Post reported he was placed on a leave of absence by the team after the allegation came to light.
The same day, the NFL fined the Broncos and McDaniels $50,000 each, and Scarnecchia was fired as a result of the incident. Scarnecchia told NFL investigators he acted alone and "knew it was wrong" to tape the walkthrough practice, after the rest of the Broncos' staff had left the stadium. Scarnecchia later presented McDaniels with the six-minute video, but McDaniels declined to view it, and it was not shown to any other Broncos staff member, and therefore the NFL determined the Broncos had not gained a competitive advantage from it.
However, the NFL fined McDaniels due to the fact that he did not immediately report the incident to the league office, as required by policy. Team executives learned of the incident on November 8 and informed the NFL on November 16. NFL Security then began its investigation, which included a forensic analysis of the computer from which the recording was later deleted by Scarnecchia. The recording was retained by the league; in the case of the Patriots' prior incident, the league had destroyed all tapes received from the Patriots. The NFL also fined the Broncos, as "clubs are ultimately accountable for the conduct of their employees."
Because of Scarnecchia's involvement with the Patriots' video department (2001–2004) during the period (2000–Sept. 2007) of their accused illegal taping, the NFL determined Scarnecchia is subject to a hearing, as a repeat offender of NFL policy, on whether he should be banned from employment in the league. "A significant number" of Broncos employees also certified in writing to the league that they were aware of no further incidents, but NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
said that if any more accusations came to light, he would re-open the investigation.
was fired, one day after the team's 10–6 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs
in Week 13. Under McDaniels, the Broncos went 5–17 following a 6–0 start to the 2009
season. Running backs coach Eric Studesville
was named interim coach that same day.
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They are currently members of the West Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League
National Football League
The National Football League is the highest level of professional American football in the United States, and is considered the top professional American football league in the world. It was formed by eleven teams in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, with the league changing...
, the 51st overall and the 10th playing their home games at INVESCO Field at Mile High
INVESCO Field at Mile High
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, previously known as Invesco Field at Mile High, and commonly known as Mile High, is a multi-purpose stadium, in Denver, Colorado. It replaced the identically sized, but commercially obsolete Mile High Stadium in 2001...
. The off-season was marked by the draft selections of Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football
The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football team represents the Georgia Institute of Technology in collegiate level football. While the team is officially designated as the Yellow Jackets, it is also referred to as the Ramblin' Wreck. The Yellow Jackets are a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference...
wide receiver
Wide receiver
A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible...
Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Antwon Thomas is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Thomas led the team in receiving in all 3 of his seasons at Tech, 2007, 2008,...
and All-American Florida
Florida Gators football
The Florida Gators football team represents the University of Florida in the sport of American football. The Florida Gators compete in the Football Bowl Subdivision of the National Collegiate Athletics Association and the Eastern Division of the Southeastern Conference...
quarterback
Quarterback
Quarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line...
Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
, as well as season-ending injuries to All-Pro
All-Pro
All-Pro is a term mostly used in the NFL for the best players of each position during that season. It began as polls of sportswriters in the early 1920s...
linebacker
Linebacker
A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen...
Elvis Dumervil
Elvis Dumervil
-Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end....
and free agent running back
Running back
A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
LenDale White
LenDale White
LenDale Anthony White is an American football running back. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Southern California....
. The team failed to improve on its 8–8 record from 2009
2009 Denver Broncos season
The 2009 Denver Broncos season was their 40th season in the NFL and 50th season overall. The Broncos matched their 8–8 regular season record from 2008 but did not make the playoffs. The Broncos welcomed many new defensive players signed during free agency, including veteran Eagles safety Brian...
, and set a new franchise record for losses in a single season, with a 4–12 record. The regular season was marked by a videotaping scandal dubbed Spygate II and the firing of head coach Josh McDaniels.
Personnel changes
- On January 13, longtime offensive coordinator/line coach Rick Dennison was hired as the new offensive coordinator for the Houston TexansHouston TexansThe Houston Texans are a professional American football team based in Houston, Texas. The team is currently a member of the Southern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. - On January 14, longtime running backs coach Bobby TurnerBobby TurnerRobert "Bobby" Turner is the Washington Redskins running backs coach. He held the same position in Denver from 1995–2009; he also worked for 20 years as a college assistant and has 39 combined years of coaching experience at the professional, collegiate and high school levels.In his final...
was hired to the same position with the Washington RedskinsWashington RedskinsThe Washington Redskins are a professional American football team and members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team plays at FedExField in Landover, Maryland, while its headquarters and training facility are at Redskin Park in Ashburn,...
, reuniting him with former Broncos head coach Mike ShanahanMike ShanahanMichael Edward "Mike" Shanahan is the 28th and current head coach of the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. Shanahan also holds the title of Vice President of Football Operations with the Redskins, giving him full control over player personnel with the team. Shanahan previously...
. - On January 18, the Broncos and defensive coordinator Mike NolanMike NolanMike Nolan is an American football coach and the current defensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins...
decided to mutually part ways. - On January 23, the following changes were made to the Broncos coaching staff: Eric StudesvilleEric StudesvilleEric Studesville is an American football coach. In December 2010, Studesville became the interim head coach of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He replaced Josh McDaniels after 12 games in the 2010 NFL Season...
was hired as the new running backs coach. Bob LigasheskyBob LigasheskyBob Ligashesky is an American football coach. He is currently the special teams assistant for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League.-Coaching career:...
was hired as the new tight ends coach, a position previously held by Clancy Barone, who was moved to offensive line coach. Bob WylieBob WylieBob Wylie is an American football coach. He currently serves as Offensive line coach under head coach Hue Jackson for the Oakland Raiders....
was named the assistant offensive line coach. Ben McDanielsBen McDanielsBen McDaniels is a former American football quarterbacks coach for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He served as the team's coaching assistant in 2009 before being promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2010. He is the younger brother of former Broncos head coach Josh...
, younger brother of former head coach Josh McDanielsJosh McDanielsJosh McDaniels is the former head coach of the Denver Broncos and currently the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Rams. He previously served as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots...
, became the quarterbacks coach, while Mike McCoy, who previously served as both quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, will retain his position as offensive coordinator. - On January 28, Don MartindaleDon MartindaleDon "Wink" Martindale was the former defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League...
was promoted from linebackers coach to the defensive coordinator position that was previously vacated by Mike Nolan. - On February 11, Craig Aukerman, who was previously a linebackers coach at Kent State UniversityKent State Golden Flashes footballThe Kent State Golden Flashes football team is a varsity intercollegiate athletic team of Kent State University in Kent, Ohio, USA. The team is a member of the Mid-American Conference East division, which is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Football Bowl Subdivision...
, was named the team's defensive assistant. - On February 23, the coaching staff was finalized, when Brian CallahanBrian CallahanBrian Callahan is a retired American ice hockey forward. Callahan was drafted 235th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft.-Career:...
was hired as a coaching assistant.
Free agents
| Position | Player | 2010 Team | Notes and references | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DT | Justin Bannan Justin Bannan Justin Bannan is an American football defensive tackle for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the 2002 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 5 |
| P | Mitch Berger | UFA | None | |
| LB Linebacker A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen... |
Elvis Dumervil Elvis Dumervil -Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end.... |
RFA | Denver Broncos | Signed tender June 14, contract extension July 22 |
| S | Vernon Fox Vernon Fox Vernon Lee Fox, III is an American football safety who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent after the 2002 NFL Draft... |
UFA | None | |
| G Guard (American football) In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team.... |
Brandon Gorin Brandon Gorin Brandon Michael Gorin is an American football offensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Purdue.... |
UFA | None | |
| DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... |
Jarvis Green Jarvis Green Jarvis Green is an American football defensive end who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 9, released September 4 |
| LB | Nick Greisen Nick Greisen Nick A. Greisen is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New York Giants in the fifth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Wisconsin.... |
UFA | Omaha Nighthawks Omaha Nighthawks The Omaha Nighthawks are a professional American football team based in Omaha, Nebraska, which plays in the United Football League, joining the league as an expansion team in 2010. For their first season, the Nighthawks played their home games at Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium before moving to TD... (UFL) |
Signed April 29, waived August 12 |
| T | Ben Hamilton Ben Hamilton Benjamin "Ben" Thomas Hamilton is a retired American football guard and center, who played for the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... |
|
| G/C Center (American football) Center is a position in American football and Canadian football . The center is the innermost lineman of the offensive line on a football team's offense... |
Russ Hochstein Russ Hochstein Russ Hochstein is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2001 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 5 |
| DE | Vonnie Holliday Vonnie Holliday Dimetry Giovonni "Vonnie" Holliday is an American football defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers 19th overall in the 1998 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Washington Redskins Washington Redskins The Washington Redskins are a professional American football team and members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team plays at FedExField in Landover, Maryland, while its headquarters and training facility are at Redskin Park in Ashburn,... |
|
| WR Wide receiver A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible... |
Chad Jackson Chad Jackson -New England Patriots:On the first day of the 2006 NFL Draft, the Patriots traded draft picks with the Green Bay Packers to move up sixteen places in the second round to select Jackson, giving up a third-round pick acquired in a trade... |
UFA | Buffalo Bills Buffalo Bills The Buffalo Bills are a professional football team based in Buffalo, New York. They are currently members of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
|
| CB | Nate Jones | UFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 5 |
| G | Chris Kuper Chris Kuper Chris Kuper is an American football offensive guard for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League. He is currently the Broncos starting right guard.... |
RFA | Denver Broncos | Signed June 4 |
| CB Cornerback A cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position... |
Ty Law Ty Law Tajuan "Ty" Law is a retired football cornerback of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 23rd overall in the 1995 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan.... |
UFA | None | |
| WR | Brandon Lloyd Brandon Lloyd Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 5 |
| WR | Brandon Marshall Brandon Marshall -2006:Before the regular season even began, Marshall suffered a slight tear to his PCL in a pre-season game against the Detroit Lions. Although the injury sidelined him for a couple of weeks, he was able to return and play 15 games during the regular season. Marshall had a total of 20 catches, 309... |
RFA | Miami Dolphins Miami Dolphins The Miami Dolphins are a Professional football team based in the Miami metropolitan area in Florida. The team is part of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
Signed tender April 13, traded to the Dolphins on April 14 |
| QB Quarterback Quarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line... |
Kyle Orton Kyle Orton Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft... |
RFA | Denver Broncos | Signed tender April 16, contract extension August 19 |
| PK Placekicker Placekicker, or simply kicker , is the title of the player in American and Canadian football who is responsible for the kicking duties of field goals, extra points... |
Matt Prater Matt Prater Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended... |
RFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 9 |
| DE | Le Kevin Smith Le Kevin Smith Le Kevin Smith is an American football defensive lineman of the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft... |
RFA | Denver Broncos | Signed March 11. released September 7, re-signed October 26, released November 9 |
| Player re-signed by the Broncos |
Signings
| Position | Player | 2009 team | Date signed | Notes and references | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RB Running back A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running... |
J.J. Arrington J.J. Arrington Johnathan Jerone "J. J." Arrington is an American football running back for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Injured reserve | March 5 | traded to the Philadelphia Eagles Philadelphia Eagles The Philadelphia Eagles are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They are members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... on July 31 |
| LB Linebacker A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen... /DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... |
Baraka Atkins Baraka Atkins Baraka Atkins is an American football linebacker in the National Football League who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft... |
UFA | San Francisco 49ers San Francisco 49ers The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and... |
January 13 | waived September 5 |
| LB | Akin Ayodele Akin Ayodele Akinola James "Akin" Ayodele is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2002 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Miami Dolphins Miami Dolphins The Miami Dolphins are a Professional football team based in the Miami metropolitan area in Florida. The team is part of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
April 24 | released August 24 |
| T | Kirk Barton Kirk Barton Kirk Barton is a free agent American football offensive tackle. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft of the National Football League. He played college football at Ohio State.... |
WVR | Detroit Lions Detroit Lions The Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League , and play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.Originally based in Portsmouth, Ohio and... |
July 7 | waived August 23 |
| G Guard (American football) In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team.... |
Stanley Daniels Stanley Daniels (American football) Stanley E. Daniels, II is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2007... |
WVR | Green Bay Packers Green Bay Packers The Green Bay Packers are an American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Packers are the current NFL champions... |
May 14 | waived December 11, moved from practice squad to active roster December 22, on final roster |
| LB | Bruce Davis Bruce Davis (linebacker) -Pittsburgh Steelers:Davis was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft. After being drafted by the Steelers, he was converted to outside linebacker in the Steelers' 3-4 defense, though faced difficulty in the transition, as he was inactive for most of his rookie... |
WVR | New England Patriots New England Patriots The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National... |
June 1 | waived July 27 |
| FB Fullback (American football) A fullback is a position in the offensive backfield in American and Canadian football, and is one of the two running back positions along with the halfback... |
Kyle Eckel Kyle Eckel Kyle Eckel is an American football fullback in the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2005... |
UFA | New Orleans Saints New Orleans Saints The New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are members of the South Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League .... |
June 4 | placed on Injured Reserve June 17 |
| PK Placekicker Placekicker, or simply kicker , is the title of the player in American and Canadian football who is responsible for the kicking duties of field goals, extra points... |
Jason Elam Jason Elam Jason Elam is a retired American football placekicker. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Hawaii.... |
UFA | Atlanta Falcons Atlanta Falcons The Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... |
March 30 | retired on March 31 |
| C Center (American football) Center is a position in American football and Canadian football . The center is the innermost lineman of the offensive line on a football team's offense... |
Dustin Fry Dustin Fry Dustin W. Fry is an American football center who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Carolina Panthers Carolina Panthers The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion... |
January 7 | released August 19 |
| G | Matt McChesney Matt McChesney Matthew McChesney is a former American football guard in the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2005. He played college football at Colorado.... |
UFA | Injured Reserve | January 7 | retired on May 16 |
| P | A.J. Trapasso | UFA | Tennessee Titans Tennessee Titans The Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter... |
January 7 | released June 15 |
| RB | Kolby Smith Kolby Smith -Kansas City Chiefs:His first career NFL start was on November 25, 2007 due to injuries to Larry Johnson and the retirement of Priest Holmes. He recorded his first career touchdown on that date against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.... |
WVR | Kansas City Chiefs Kansas City Chiefs The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a... |
June 15 | waived August 4 |
| NT | Jamal Williams Jamal Williams Jamal Williams is an American football nose tackle who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 1998 Supplemental Draft... |
UFA | San Diego Chargers San Diego Chargers The San Diego Chargers are a professional American football team based in San Diego, California. they were members of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
March 9 | on final roster |
| T | Maurice Williams Maurice Williams (American football) Maurice Carlos Williams is an American football guard and offensive tackle who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Jacksonville Jaguars Jacksonville Jaguars The Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
May 6 | released June 4 |
Departures
| Position | Player | Notes and references |
|---|---|---|
| S | Josh Barrett Josh Barrett Joshua Robert Barrett is an American football safety for the New England Patriots of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Arizona State.-Early years:Barrett was born in Reno, Nevada... |
waived August 6, then claimed by the New England Patriots New England Patriots The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National... |
| QB Quarterback Quarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line... |
Tom Brandstater Tom Brandstater Thomas "Tom" Brandstater is an unrestricted free agent American football quarterback in the National Football League. He played college football for the Fresno State Bulldogs... |
released June 4, signed with the Indianapolis Colts Indianapolis Colts The Indianapolis Colts are a professional American football team based in Indianapolis. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League .... on June 7 |
| LB Linebacker A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen... |
Andra Davis Andra Davis Andra Raynard Davis [pronounced André] is an American football linebacker for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League . He played college football for the University of Florida... |
released March 11, signed with the Buffalo Bills Buffalo Bills The Buffalo Bills are a professional football team based in Buffalo, New York. They are currently members of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... on March 16 |
| RB Running back A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running... |
LaMont Jordan LaMont Jordan LaMont Damon Jordan is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft... |
released February 23 |
| DT | J'Vonne Parker J'Vonne Parker J'Vonne Dieunti Parker is an American football defensive tackle for the who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in 2005... |
released March 11 |
| DT | Kenny Peterson Kenny Peterson James Kenneth Peterson is an American football defensive end who is a Free Agent. He was originally drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft... |
released March 10 |
| QB | Chris Simms Chris Simms Christopher David Simms is an American football quarterback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas.Simms has also played for the Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers... |
released March 15, signed with the Tennessee Titans Tennessee Titans The Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter... on April 12 |
| C Center (American football) Center is a position in American football and Canadian football . The center is the innermost lineman of the offensive line on a football team's offense... |
Casey Wiegmann Casey Wiegmann Casey Peter Wiegmann is an American football center for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was signed by the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 1996... |
released February 23, signed with the Kansas City Chiefs Kansas City Chiefs The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a... on March 12 |
Retirements
- On March 30, longtime placekickerPlacekickerPlacekicker, or simply kicker , is the title of the player in American and Canadian football who is responsible for the kicking duties of field goals, extra points...
Jason ElamJason ElamJason Elam is a retired American football placekicker. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Hawaii....
, who spent his first 15 seasons with the Broncos (1993–2007) and his final two seasons with the Atlanta FalconsAtlanta FalconsThe Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
(2008–2009), signed a one-day contract in order to officially retire as a Bronco. - On May 16, guardGuard (American football)In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team....
Matt McChesneyMatt McChesneyMatthew McChesney is a former American football guard in the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2005. He played college football at Colorado....
, who spent the entire 2009 season on the Injured Reserve, retired following a freak golfing accident in April.
Trades
- On March 14, the Broncos traded fullbackFullback (American football)A fullback is a position in the offensive backfield in American and Canadian football, and is one of the two running back positions along with the halfback...
Peyton HillisPeyton HillisHillis was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft.-2008 Season:At the start of the 2008 season, Hillis was listed as the Broncos' starting fullback...
, a 20112011 NFL DraftThe 2011 NFL Draft was the 76th installment of the annual NFL Draft, where the franchises of the National Football League select newly eligible football players...
sixth-round draft pick and a 20122012 NFL DraftThe 2012 NFL Draft will be the 77th annual meeting of National Football League franchises to select newly eligible football players.-Trades:...
conditional draft pick to the Cleveland BrownsCleveland BrownsThe Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
for quarterbackQuarterbackQuarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line...
Brady QuinnBrady QuinnBrayden Tyler "Brady" Quinn is an American football quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. Quinn was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Notre Dame.-Early Years:Brayden Tyler "Brady" Quinn was born on...
. - On April 14, wide receiverWide receiverA wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible...
Brandon MarshallBrandon Marshall-2006:Before the regular season even began, Marshall suffered a slight tear to his PCL in a pre-season game against the Detroit Lions. Although the injury sidelined him for a couple of weeks, he was able to return and play 15 games during the regular season. Marshall had a total of 20 catches, 309...
was traded to the Miami DolphinsMiami DolphinsThe Miami Dolphins are a Professional football team based in the Miami metropolitan area in Florida. The team is part of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
for a 20102010 NFL DraftThe 2010 NFL Draft was the 75th annual meeting of National Football League franchises to select newly eligible football players. Unlike previous years, the 2010 draft took place over three days, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, with the first round on Thursday, April 22, 2010, at 7:30 pm...
second-round draft pick (later traded to the Baltimore RavensBaltimore RavensThe Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
– see draft note 5 below) and a possible 2011 second-round draft pick. - On April 19, the Broncos were involved in a three-team trade with the Detroit LionsDetroit LionsThe Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League , and play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.Originally based in Portsmouth, Ohio and...
and Philadelphia EaglesPhiladelphia EaglesThe Philadelphia Eagles are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They are members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
, with the team sending tight endTight endThe tight end is a position in American football on the offense. The tight end is often seen as a hybrid position with the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Like offensive linemen, they are usually lined up on the offensive line and are large enough to be...
Tony SchefflerTony Scheffler-Denver Broncos:Scheffler was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. After seeing limited playing time early in the season, Scheffler saw increased playing time and production after Jay Cutler was inserted as the Broncos starting quarterback on December 3, 2006,...
to the Lions – see draft note 9 below. - On July 30, running backRunning backA running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
J.J. ArringtonJ.J. ArringtonJohnathan Jerone "J. J." Arrington is an American football running back for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, who was signed to a contract in March after spending the entire 2009 season on the Injured Reserve, was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for linebackerLinebackerA linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen...
Joe MaysJoe Mays (American football)Joseph Lamont "Joe" Mays is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at North Dakota State.-Early years:Joe attended Hyde Park High School...
. However, since Arrington was released by the Eagles prior to the start of the season, the Eagles will receive the Broncos' sixth-round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.
2010 draft class
| Round | Selection | Player | Position | College | Signed | Cut | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 22 | Demaryius Thomas Demaryius Thomas Demaryius Antwon Thomas is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Thomas led the team in receiving in all 3 of his seasons at Tech, 2007, 2008,... |
WR Wide receiver A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible... |
Georgia Tech Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football team represents the Georgia Institute of Technology in collegiate level football. While the team is officially designated as the Yellow Jackets, it is also referred to as the Ramblin' Wreck. The Yellow Jackets are a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference... |
July 31 | – | |
| 25 | Tim Tebow Tim Tebow Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft... |
QB Quarterback Quarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line... |
Florida Florida Gators football The Florida Gators football team represents the University of Florida in the sport of American football. The Florida Gators compete in the Football Bowl Subdivision of the National Collegiate Athletics Association and the Eastern Division of the Southeastern Conference... |
July 29 | – | ||
| 2 | 45 | Zane Beadles Zane Beadles -External links:**... |
T | Utah Utah Utes football The Utah Utes football program is a college football team that currently competes in the Pacific-12 Conference of the Football Bowl Subdivision of NCAA Division I and represents the University of Utah. The Utah college football program began in 1892 and has played home games at Rice–Eccles... |
July 27 | – | |
| 3 | 80 | J.D. Walton | C Center (American football) Center is a position in American football and Canadian football . The center is the innermost lineman of the offensive line on a football team's offense... |
Baylor Baylor Bears football The Baylor Bears football team represents Baylor University in Division I FBS college football. They are a member of the Big 12 Conference. The team plays its home games at Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, Texas.-History:... |
June 17 | – | |
| 87 | Eric Decker Eric Decker Eric Decker is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft... |
WR | Minnesota Minnesota Golden Gophers football The University of Minnesota Golden Gophers are one of the oldest programs in college football history. They compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the Big Ten Conference. The Golden Gophers have claimed six national championships and have an all time record of 646–481–44 as... |
July 27 | – | ||
| 4 | None | ||||||
| 5 | 137 | Perrish Cox Perrish Cox -Off the field troubles:In August 2009, Cox was arrested in for driving with a suspended license.He was also suspended from the Cotton Bowl in his senior season by head coach Mike Gundy for violating the team curfew rule.... |
CB Cornerback A cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position... |
Oklahoma State Oklahoma State Cowboys football The Oklahoma State Cowboys football program represents Oklahoma State University–Stillwater in college football. The team is a member of the Big 12 Conference and completes at the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision level. The Cowboys are led by Mike Gundy, who is in his seventh year as... |
June 9 | – | |
| 6 | 183 | Eric Olsen Eric Olsen Eric Olsen was the founder, editor-in-chief, and publisher of broad-based online critical magazine Blogcritics and author of local Cleveland blog Cleve-blog. He is also a widely read and influential blogger... |
C | Notre Dame Notre Dame Fighting Irish football Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team is the football team of the University of Notre Dame. The team is currently coached by Brian Kelly.Notre Dame competes as an Independent at the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision level, and is a founding member of the Bowl Championship Series coalition. It is an... |
July 24 | – | |
| 7 | 225 | Syd'Quan Thompson Syd'Quan Thompson Syd'Quan Thompson is an American football cornerback for the Denver Broncos. Thompson was drafted by the Broncos as the 225th overall selection in the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at California.-Early life:... |
CB | California California Golden Bears football The California Golden Bears football team is the college football team of the University of California. The team plays its home games at California Memorial Stadium, however the team played at San Francisco's AT&T Park in 2011 while Memorial Stadium was being renovated, the team will return to... |
May 21 | – | |
| 232 | Jammie Kirlew Jammie Kirlew Jammie Kirlew is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at Indiana.... |
DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... |
Indiana Indiana Hoosiers football The Indiana Hoosiers football program represents Indiana University Bloomington in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision college football and in the Big Ten Conference.-Bowl games:... |
May 25 | September 3 | ||
Undrafted free agents
- All undrafted free agents were signed on April 26, unless noted otherwise.
| Position | Player | College | Notes and references |
|---|---|---|---|
| LB Linebacker A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen... /DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... |
Kevin Alexander Kevin Alexander (linebacker) Kevin Alexander is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Clemson.-Early years:... |
Clemson Clemson Tigers football The Clemson Tigers football team is an American football team from Clemson University in South Carolina. It competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the Atlantic Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference... |
released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 5, promoted to active roster October 16, released December 20 |
| WR Wide receiver A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible... |
Alric Arnett | West Virginia West Virginia Mountaineers football The West Virginia Mountaineers football team represents West Virginia University in the NCAA FBS division of college football. Dana Holgorsen is the team's 33rd head coach. He has held the position since he was promoted in June 2011 after the resignation of Bill Stewart. The Mountaineers play their... |
waived September 3 |
| RB Running back A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running... |
Toney Baker | North Carolina State NC State Wolfpack football The NC State Wolfpack football team represents North Carolina State University in NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision competition. The Wolfpack currently compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference.... |
waived August 23 |
| NT/DE | Jaron Baston | Missouri Missouri Tigers football The Missouri Tigers football team represents the University of Missouri in NCAA Division I FBS college football. The team has competed in the North Division of the Big 12 Conference since the conference's inception in 1996... |
released June 17 |
| LB | Devin Bishop | California California Golden Bears football The California Golden Bears football team is the college football team of the University of California. The team plays its home games at California Memorial Stadium, however the team played at San Francisco's AT&T Park in 2011 while Memorial Stadium was being renovated, the team will return to... |
released August 20 |
| LB/DT | Korey Bosworth | UCLA UCLA Bruins Football The UCLA Bruins football program represents the University of California, Los Angeles in college football as members of the Pacific-12 Conference at the NCAA Division I FBS level. The Bruins have enjoyed several periods of success in their history, having been ranked in the top ten of the AP Poll... |
released June 15 |
| S | Marcellus Bowman Marcellus Bowman Marcellus Bowman , nicknamed the Boomakat, is a professional Canadian football linebacker for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League. He was signed by the Blue Bombers as a free agent in the spring of 2010... |
Boston College Boston College Eagles football The Boston College Eagles football team is the collegiate football program of Boston College. The team is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference, a Division I Bowl Subdivision league governed by the NCAA. Within the ACC, the Eagles are one of six teams in the Atlantic Division... |
released May 6 |
| RB | Chris Brown Chris Brown (running back b. 1987) Chris Brown is an American football running back. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Denver Broncos in 2010. He played in college for the Oklahoma Sooners.-Early years:... |
Oklahoma Oklahoma Sooners football The Oklahoma Sooners football program is a college football team that represents the University of Oklahoma . The team is currently a member of the Big 12 Conference, which is a Division I Bowl Subdivision of the National Collegiate Athletic Association... |
released May 3 |
| T | Paul Duncan | Notre Dame Notre Dame Fighting Irish football Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team is the football team of the University of Notre Dame. The team is currently coached by Brian Kelly.Notre Dame competes as an Independent at the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision level, and is a founding member of the Bowl Championship Series coalition. It is an... |
waived September 3 |
| DE | Ben Garland | Air Force Air Force Falcons football The Air Force Falcons are a college football team from the United States Air Force Academy, located just outside of Colorado Springs, Colorado. The team competes in the Football Bowl Subdivision of the NCAA Division I and the Mountain West Conference.-Style:... |
placed on the reserve/military list |
| TE Tight end The tight end is a position in American football on the offense. The tight end is often seen as a hybrid position with the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Like offensive linemen, they are usually lined up on the offensive line and are large enough to be... |
Riar Geer | Colorado Colorado Buffaloes football The Colorado Buffaloes football program represents the University of Colorado at Boulder in college football at the NCAA Division I FBS level. The team is currently a member of the Pacific-12 Conference, having previously been a charter member of the Big 12 Conference. Before joining the Big 12,... |
released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 5 |
| WR | Patrick Honeycutt | Middle Tennessee State Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders football The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders football team represents Middle Tennessee State University in NCAA Division I FBS football competition. The Blue Raiders, a member of the Sun Belt Conference, play their home games at Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.Rick Stockstill has... |
waived August 5 |
| WR | Dicky Lyons, Jr. | Kentucky Kentucky Wildcats football The Kentucky Wildcats football team is a college football program that competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the East Division of the Southeastern Conference.-History:Paul "Bear" Bryant Era... |
signed May 3, waived July 6 |
| T | Chris Marinelli Chris Marinelli Chris Marinelli is a free agent American football offensive tackle who last played for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Denver Broncos in 2010... |
Stanford Stanford Cardinal football The Stanford Cardinal football program represents Stanford University in college football at the NCAA Division I FBS level and is a member of the Pac-12 Conference's North Division. Stanford, the top-ranked academic institution with an FBS program, has a highly successful football tradition. The... |
waived July 27 |
| S | Kyle McCarthy Kyle McCarthy Kyle Justin McCarthy is an American football safety for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Notre Dame.... |
Notre Dame | released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 5, promoted to active roster October 16, placed on Injured reserve December 13 |
| TE | Nathan Overbay | Eastern Washington Eastern Washington University Eastern Washington University is an American public, coeducational university located in Cheney, Washington.Founded in 1882, the university is academically divided into four colleges: Arts and Letters; Business and Public Administration; Science, Health and Engineering; and Social & Behavioral... |
waived September 3 |
| G Guard (American football) In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team.... |
Michael Shumard | Texas A&M Texas A&M Aggies football The Texas A&M Aggies football team represents Texas A&M University in college football. The Aggies have competed in the Big 12 Conference since the conference's inception in 1996. They will join the Southeastern Conference in July 2012. Texas A&M football has earned one national title and 18... |
released May 6 |
| NT | Jeff Stehle | Wisconsin Wisconsin Badgers football The Wisconsin Badgers are a college football program that represents the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision and the Big Ten Conference. They play their home games at Camp Randall Stadium, the fourth-oldest stadium in college football... |
released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 14, released October 13 |
| CB Cornerback A cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position... |
Cassius Vaughn Cassius Vaughn Cassius M. Vaughn is an American football cornerback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League... |
Mississippi Ole Miss Rebels football The football history of the University of Mississippi , includes the formation of the first football team in the state and is 26th on the list of college football's all-time winning programs... |
on final roster |
| WR | Landis Williams | Maine | waived July 6 |
Schedule
The Broncos preseason schedule was announced on March 31, 2010.| Week | | Date | | Kickoff | | Opponent | | Results | | Game site | | TV | | NFL.com recap |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final score | Team record | |||||||
| 1 | August 15 | 5:00 pm MDT Mountain Time Zone The Mountain Time Zone of North America keeps time by subtracting seven hours from Coordinated Universal Time, also known as Greenwich Mean Time, during the shortest days of autumn and winter , and by subtracting six hours during daylight saving time in the spring, summer, and early autumn... |
at Cincinnati Bengals 2010 Cincinnati Bengals season The 2010 Cincinnati Bengals season was the 41st season for the team in the National Football League , and their 43rd overall. The Bengals looked to improve on their 10–6 record in 2009, during which they swept the AFC North for the first time in team history and made the playoffs as division... |
L 24–33 | 0–1 | Paul Brown Stadium Paul Brown Stadium Paul Brown Stadium is an American sports stadium located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is the home venue of the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. It opened on August 19, 2000. The stadium was named after Bengals' founder Paul Brown. The stadium is located on approximately of land and... |
KCNC KCNC-TV KCNC-TV, virtual channel 4, is a CBS owned-and-operated station television station in Denver, Colorado, owned by CBS Television Stations, Inc. KCNC broadcasts on UHF channel 35 from Lookout Mountain near Golden, Colorado.- Digital programming :... |
Recap |
| 2 | August 21 | 7:00 pm MDT | Detroit Lions 2010 Detroit Lions season The 2010 Detroit Lions season was the franchise's 81st season in the NFL. It was Jim Schwartz's second season as head coach. The Lions spent most of the season at the bottom of their division, but with more division wins than the Vikings , the Lions ended up at 3rd place on the final day of the... |
L 20–25 | 0–2 | INVESCO Field at Mile High INVESCO Field at Mile High Sports Authority Field at Mile High, previously known as Invesco Field at Mile High, and commonly known as Mile High, is a multi-purpose stadium, in Denver, Colorado. It replaced the identically sized, but commercially obsolete Mile High Stadium in 2001... |
KCNC | Recap |
| 3 | August 29 | 6:00 pm MDT | Pittsburgh Steelers 2010 Pittsburgh Steelers season The 2010 Pittsburgh Steelers season was the team's 78th season as a professional sports franchise and as a member of the National Football League and the eleventh season under the leadership of general manager Kevin Colbert and the fourth under head coach Mike Tomlin... |
W 34–17 | 1–2 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | Fox NFL on FOX NFL on Fox is the brand name of the Fox Broadcasting Company's coverage of the National Football League's National Football Conference games, produced by Fox Sports... |
Recap |
| 4 | September 2 | 6:00 pm MDT | at Minnesota Vikings 2010 Minnesota Vikings season The 2010 Minnesota Vikings season was the franchise's 50th season in the National Football League, and the fifth under head coach Brad Childress until November 22, when he was fired and Leslie Frazier was named interim head coach... |
L 24–31 | 1–3 | Mall of America Field at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, commonly called the Metrodome, is a domed sports stadium in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Opened in 1982, it replaced Metropolitan Stadium, which was on the current site of the Mall of America in Bloomington and Memorial Stadium on the University... |
KCNC | Recap |
Opening training camp roster
| Denver Broncos 2010 opening training camp roster | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
|
Offensive Linemen
Kirk Barton Kirk Barton is a free agent American football offensive tackle. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft of the National Football League. He played college football at Ohio State.... T D'Anthony Batiste D'Anthony Batiste is an American football offensive tackle for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. He was signed by the Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings in 2006... T Zane Beadles -External links:**... G R Stanley Daniels (American football) Stanley E. Daniels, II is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2007... G Dustin Fry Dustin W. Fry is an American football center who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft... C Ryan Harris (American football) Ryan Emerson Wilcox Harris is an American football offensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Notre Dame.... T Russ Hochstein Russ Hochstein is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2001 NFL Draft... G/C Chris Kuper Chris Kuper is an American football offensive guard for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League. He is currently the Broncos starting right guard.... G Seth Olsen Seth Olsen is an American football guard for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. He played college football at Iowa... G Tyler Polumbus Tyler Polumbus is an American football offensive tackle who is currently on the Washington Redskins. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2008... T J. D. Walton -Denver Broncos:Walton was selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He was the second center to be picked in the draft, after first rounder Maurkice Pouncey. Walton signed a four-year contract on June 17, 2010.... C R Defensive Linemen
|
Linebackers
Kevin Alexander (linebacker) Kevin Alexander is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Clemson.-Early years:... OLB/DE UR Baraka Atkins Baraka Atkins is an American football linebacker in the National Football League who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft... OLB/DE Robert Ayers -Denver Broncos:Ayers was drafted by the Denver Broncos as the second one of their two first round picks at 18th overall of the 2009 NFL Draft. On August 4, 2009, Ayers signed a five-year contract with $9.7 million guaranteed. In his rookie season he recorded 19 tackles and no sacks... OLB/DE Akin Ayodele Akinola James "Akin" Ayodele is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2002 NFL Draft... ILB Elvis Dumervil -Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end.... OLB/DE Nick Greisen Nick A. Greisen is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New York Giants in the fifth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Wisconsin.... ILB Mario Haggan Mario Marcell Haggan is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Mississippi State.-Early years:Haggan grew up in a poverty-stricken area of... ILB Jammie Kirlew Jammie Kirlew is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at Indiana.... OLB/DE R Joe Mays (American football) Joseph Lamont "Joe" Mays is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at North Dakota State.-Early years:Joe attended Hyde Park High School... ILB Jarvis Moss Jarvis Jaray Moss is an American football defensive end for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League . Moss was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football for the Florida Gators.-High school career:Moss was born in Denton, Texas... OLB/DE Wesley Woodyard Wesley Woodyard is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played collegiately for the University of Kentucky, where he helped lead the team to a victory in Music City Bowl over Clemson in 2006.-High school career:Woodyard was born in LaGrange,... ILB Defensive Backs
Special Teams
|
Reserve Lists
Ryan Clady -Denver Broncos:Following Week 12 of the 2008 NFL season, Peter King of Sports Illustrated said Clady was the third-best rookie overall. On December 12, 2008, Clady won the Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week award, after his game against the Kansas City Chiefs... OT (Active/NF-Inj.)  Kyle Eckel Kyle Eckel is an American football fullback in the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2005... FB (IR) Braxton Kelley Braxton Kelley is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Kentucky.-External links:*... ILB (IR) Darrell Reid Darrell Reid is an American football linebacker who is currenrly a free agent of the National Football League. He was signed by the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2005... OLB/DE (Active/PUP) Jamal Williams Jamal Williams is an American football nose tackle who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 1998 Supplemental Draft... NT (Active/PUP) Notations
|
|||||
Notable injuries
- On August 4, shortly after the start of training camp, the Broncos suffered a devastating blow to their defense, when outside linebacker/defensive endDefensive endDefensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years...
Elvis DumervilElvis Dumervil-Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end....
suffered a torn pectoral muscle in practice. Though there was speculation that Dumervil would be able to return as early as November, he was placed on Injured Reserve on September 3, and missed the entire 2010 season. - On September 2, during the team's last preseason game at the Minnesota Vikings2010 Minnesota Vikings seasonThe 2010 Minnesota Vikings season was the franchise's 50th season in the National Football League, and the fifth under head coach Brad Childress until November 22, when he was fired and Leslie Frazier was named interim head coach...
, running backRunning backA running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
LenDale WhiteLenDale WhiteLenDale Anthony White is an American football running back. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Southern California....
suffered a ruptured Achilles tendonAchilles tendonThe Achilles tendon , also known as the calcaneal tendon or the tendo calcaneus, is a tendon of the posterior leg. It serves to attach the plantaris, gastrocnemius and soleus muscles to the calcaneus bone.- Anatomy :The Achilles is the tendonous extension of 3 muscles in the lower leg:...
, and missed the 2010 season. White, a DenverDenver, ColoradoThe City and County of Denver is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Denver is a consolidated city-county, located in the South Platte River Valley on the western edge of the High Plains just east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains...
native, was signed to a free agent contract on August 4, after he was released by the Seattle Seahawks2010 Seattle Seahawks seasonThe 2010 Seattle Seahawks season was the 35th season for the team in the National Football League. Jim Mora was fired on January 8, 2010, leading the Seahawks to come to an agreement with Pete Carroll, instating him as head coach the following day. This marks the 9th season that the Seahawks will...
in May, and spending his first four seasons with the Tennessee TitansTennessee TitansThe Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter...
.
Signings
| Position | Player | 2009 team | Date signed | Notes and references | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RB Running back A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running... |
Andre Brown Andre Brown (American football) Andre Brown is an American football running back who is currently with the New York Giants on the practice squad in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Giants in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft... |
WVR | New York Giants New York Giants The New York Giants are a professional American football team based in East Rutherford, New Jersey, representing the New York City metropolitan area. The Giants are currently members of the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... |
September 5 | released September 15, assigned to practice squad September 17, moved to active roster September 21, released October 16 |
| WR Wide receiver A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible... |
Patrick Carter Patrick Carter (American football) Patrick Richard Carter is an American football wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League. He was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Louisville.... |
UFA | Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... |
August 5 | waived August 23 |
| T | Chris Clark Chris Clark (American football) Chris Clark is an American football offensive tackle for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Southern Mississippi... |
WVR | Minnesota Vikings Minnesota Vikings The Minnesota Vikings are a professional American football team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings joined the National Football League as an expansion team in 1960... |
September 5 | on final roster |
| WR | Britt Davis Britt Davis Britt Davis is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Northern Illinois.-Early years:Davis attended public schools in North Riverside, Illinois... |
UFA | New York Jets New York Jets The New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
August 5 | released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 5, moved to active roster December 13 |
| RB | Justin Fargas Justin Fargas Justin Fargas is an American football running back who is a Free Agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Oakland Raiders Oakland Raiders The Oakland Raiders are a professional American football team based in Oakland, California. They currently play in the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
August 11 | released August 30 |
| DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... /LB Linebacker A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen... |
Jason Hunter | UFA | Detroit Lions Detroit Lions The Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League , and play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.Originally based in Portsmouth, Ohio and... |
August 19 | on final roster |
| TE Tight end The tight end is a position in American football on the offense. The tight end is often seen as a hybrid position with the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Like offensive linemen, they are usually lined up on the offensive line and are large enough to be... |
Kory Sperry Kory Sperry Kory Kalani Kahaunaele Sperry is an American football tight end for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Colorado State.-Miami Dolphins:In Week 10 of the 2009 NFL season,... |
UFA | Miami Dolphins Miami Dolphins The Miami Dolphins are a Professional football team based in the Miami metropolitan area in Florida. The team is part of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... |
August 24 | waived September 3 |
| DT | Kevin Vickerson Kevin Vickerson Kevin Darnell Vickerson is an American football defensive tackle for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft... |
UFA | Tennessee Titans Tennessee Titans The Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter... |
September 7 | on final roster |
| RB | LenDale White LenDale White LenDale Anthony White is an American football running back. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Southern California.... |
UFA | Tennessee Titans | August 4 | placed on Injured Reserve September 3 |
| LB | Johnny Williams | UFA | Pittsburgh Steelers Pittsburgh Steelers The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC... |
August 12 | waived September 3 |
| LB | Worrell Williams Worrell Williams Worrell Williams is an American football linebacker for the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the United Football League. He was signed by the Redwoods as an undrafted free agent in 2009... |
UFA | Sacramento Mountain Lions (UFL) | August 20 | released September 4, assigned to practice squad September 5, released September 14 |
Roster cuts
During a one-week span from August 23–30, the Broncos began trimming their roster from 80 to 75 players, with the releases of running backRunning back
A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
Toney Baker, offensive tackles Kirk Barton
Kirk Barton
Kirk Barton is a free agent American football offensive tackle. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft of the National Football League. He played college football at Ohio State....
and Tyler Polumbus
Tyler Polumbus
Tyler Polumbus is an American football offensive tackle who is currently on the Washington Redskins. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
, linebacker
Linebacker
A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen...
Akin Ayodele
Akin Ayodele
Akinola James "Akin" Ayodele is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
and wide receiver
Wide receiver
A wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible...
Patrick Carter.
The next round of roster cuts occurred on September 3, as the team prepared to trim their roster to 53 players before the September 4 deadline. Nose tackle Chris Baker, tight end
Tight end
The tight end is a position in American football on the offense. The tight end is often seen as a hybrid position with the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Like offensive linemen, they are usually lined up on the offensive line and are large enough to be...
s Kory Sperry
Kory Sperry
Kory Kalani Kahaunaele Sperry is an American football tight end for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Colorado State.-Miami Dolphins:In Week 10 of the 2009 NFL season,...
and Nathan Overbay, offensive tackle Paul Duncan, wide receiver Alric Arnett, linebacker Johnny Williams and one of the team's seventh-round draft picks, defensive end
Defensive end
Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years...
Jammie Kirlew
Jammie Kirlew
Jammie Kirlew is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at Indiana....
, were all released.
On September 4, linebacker Darrell Reid
Darrell Reid
Darrell Reid is an American football linebacker who is currenrly a free agent of the National Football League. He was signed by the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2005...
, defensive end Jarvis Green
Jarvis Green
Jarvis Green is an American football defensive end who is currently a free agent of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
, tight end Marquez Branson
Marquez Branson
Marquez Branson is an American football tight end for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Central Arkansas....
, center
Center (American football)
Center is a position in American football and Canadian football . The center is the innermost lineman of the offensive line on a football team's offense...
Seth Olsen
Seth Olsen
Seth Olsen is an American football guard for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. He played college football at Iowa...
, wide receiver Britt Davis
Britt Davis
Britt Davis is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Northern Illinois.-Early years:Davis attended public schools in North Riverside, Illinois...
, tight end Riar Geer, linebackers Kevin Alexander
Kevin Alexander (linebacker)
Kevin Alexander is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Clemson.-Early years:...
and Worrell Williams
Worrell Williams
Worrell Williams is an American football linebacker for the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the United Football League. He was signed by the Redwoods as an undrafted free agent in 2009...
, safety Kyle McCarthy
Kyle McCarthy
Kyle Justin McCarthy is an American football safety for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Notre Dame....
and nose tackle Jeff Stehle were released, with the latter five players assigned to the practice squad the following day. Other notable transactions that occurred on September 4 involved the team placing defensive end/linebacker Elvis Dumervil
Elvis Dumervil
-Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end....
and wide receiver Brandon Stokley
Brandon Stokley
Brandon Stokley is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft...
on the Injured Reserve, trading cornerback
Cornerback
A cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position...
Alphonso Smith
Alphonso Smith
Alphonso Smith, Jr. is a professional football cornerback for the Detroit Lions. Smith played college football at Wake Forest...
to the Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League , and play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.Originally based in Portsmouth, Ohio and...
for tight end Dan Gronkowski
Dan Gronkowski
Dan Gronkowski is an American football tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft...
, as well as placing undrafted defensive end Ben Garland on the Military reserve
Military reserve
A military reserve, tactical reserve, or strategic reserve is a group of military personnel or units which are initially not committed to a battle by their commander so that they are available to address unforeseen situations or exploit suddenly developing...
list.
On September 7, defensive end Le Kevin Smith
Le Kevin Smith
Le Kevin Smith is an American football defensive lineman of the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft...
was released.
Schedule
On January 15, 2010, the NFL announced that the Broncos will play the San Francisco 49ersSan Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and...
in the International Series
NFL International Series
Beginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
at Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007...
in London, England. The game occurred during Week 8 on Sunday, October 31, at 11:00 am MDT (5:00 pm GMT
Greenwich Mean Time
Greenwich Mean Time is a term originally referring to mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London. It is arguably the same as Coordinated Universal Time and when this is viewed as a time zone the name Greenwich Mean Time is especially used by bodies connected with the United...
), and was aired by CBS
NFL on CBS
The NFL on CBS is the brand name of the CBS television network's coverage of the National Football League's American Football Conference games, produced by CBS Sports.-Market coverage and television policies:...
in the United States. The 49ers were the designated home team for this game.
The remainder of the Broncos' schedule was announced on April 20, 2010.
| Week | | Date | | Kickoff | | Opponent | | Results | | Game site | | TV | | NFL.com recap |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final score | Team record | |||||||
| 1 | September 12 | 11:00 am MDT Mountain Time Zone The Mountain Time Zone of North America keeps time by subtracting seven hours from Coordinated Universal Time, also known as Greenwich Mean Time, during the shortest days of autumn and winter , and by subtracting six hours during daylight saving time in the spring, summer, and early autumn... |
at Jacksonville Jaguars 2010 Jacksonville Jaguars season The 2010 Jacksonville Jaguars season was the 16th season for the team in the National Football League. The Jaguars, who are in their second year of "rebuilding" under general manager Gene Smith, improved upon their 7–9 record from 2009, but narrowly missed the playoffs with an 8–8 record... |
L 17–24 | 0–1 | EverBank Field | CBS NFL on CBS The NFL on CBS is the brand name of the CBS television network's coverage of the National Football League's American Football Conference games, produced by CBS Sports.-Market coverage and television policies:... |
Recap |
| 2 | September 19 | 2:05 pm MDT | Seattle Seahawks 2010 Seattle Seahawks season The 2010 Seattle Seahawks season was the 35th season for the team in the National Football League. Jim Mora was fired on January 8, 2010, leading the Seahawks to come to an agreement with Pete Carroll, instating him as head coach the following day. This marks the 9th season that the Seahawks will... |
W 31–14 | 1–1 | INVESCO Field at Mile High INVESCO Field at Mile High Sports Authority Field at Mile High, previously known as Invesco Field at Mile High, and commonly known as Mile High, is a multi-purpose stadium, in Denver, Colorado. It replaced the identically sized, but commercially obsolete Mile High Stadium in 2001... |
Fox NFL on FOX NFL on Fox is the brand name of the Fox Broadcasting Company's coverage of the National Football League's National Football Conference games, produced by Fox Sports... |
Recap |
| 3 | September 26 | 2:15 pm MDT | Indianapolis Colts 2010 Indianapolis Colts season The 2010 Indianapolis Colts season was the 58th season for the team in the National Football League, the 27th in Indianapolis, and the second under head coach Jim Caldwell... |
L 13–27 | 1–2 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
| 4 | October 3 | 11:00 am MDT | at Tennessee Titans 2010 Tennessee Titans season The 2010 Tennessee Titans season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League, their 51st overall and their 14th season in Tennessee... |
W 26–20 | 2–2 | LP Field LP Field LP Field is a football stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, United States, owned by the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County.... |
CBS | Recap |
| 5 | October 10 | 11:00 am MDT | at Baltimore Ravens 2010 Baltimore Ravens season The 2010 Baltimore Ravens season was the 15th for the team in the National Football League and city of Baltimore, Maryland, and the 13th to host home games at M&T Bank Stadium. They played in the NFL's American Football Conference North Division... |
L 17–31 | 2–3 | M&T Bank Stadium M&T Bank Stadium M&T Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the home of the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles. Served by the Hamburg Street station of... |
CBS | Recap |
| 6 | October 17 | 2:05 pm MDT | New York Jets 2010 New York Jets season The 2010 New York Jets season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st season overall and the team's first season at New Meadowlands Stadium. The team improved on their 9–7 record from 2009 and reached the playoffs again. The Jets played their first pre-season game... |
L 20–24 | 2–4 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
| 7 | October 24 | 2:15 pm MDT | Oakland Raiders 2010 Oakland Raiders season The 2010 Oakland Raiders season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League and their 51st overall. It also marked the last full season under the ownership of Al Davis, who died in October 2011. The Raiders had improved from a five-win season, their first since 2002, and achieved... |
L 14–59 | 2–5 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
| 8 | October 31 | 11:00 am MDT ^ | vs. San Francisco 49ers 2010 San Francisco 49ers season The 2010 San Francisco 49ers season was the franchise's 65th season, and the second full year with Mike Singletary as the head coach. The 49ers were looking to build upon their 8–8 season in 2009 that ended their streak of seven consecutive losing seasons and to get into the postseason for the... |
L 16–24 | 2–6 | Wembley Stadium Wembley Stadium The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007... (London, England) |
CBS | Recap |
| 9 | Bye Bye (sports) A bye, in sports and other competitive activities, most commonly refers to the practice of allowing a player or team to advance to the next round of a playoff tournament without playing... |
|||||||
| 10 | November 14 | 2:05 pm MST | Kansas City Chiefs 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season The 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st overall and the second under the head coach/general manager tandem of Todd Haley and Scott Pioli. The team improved on its 4–12 record from 2009, and won their first AFC West division title... |
W 49–29 | 3–6 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
| 11 | November 22 | 6:30 pm MST | at San Diego Chargers 2010 San Diego Chargers season The 2010 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, and their 51st overall. After a 13–3 record dissolved into a disappointing loss to the New York Jets in the divisional round of the 2009-10 NFL Playoffs, the Chargers had high hopes of winning their... |
L 14–35 | 3–7 | Qualcomm Stadium Qualcomm Stadium Qualcomm Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium, in San Diego, California, in the Mission Valley area.... |
ESPN Monday Night Football Monday Night Football is a live broadcast of the National Football League on ESPN. From to it aired on ABC. Monday Night Football was, along with Hallmark Hall of Fame, and the Walt Disney anthology television series, one of the longest running prime time commercial network television series... |
Recap |
| 12 | November 28 | 2:15 pm MST | St. Louis Rams 2010 St. Louis Rams season -Schedule:-Week 1: vs. Arizona Cardinals:The St. Louis Rams began their season at home for an NFC West match against the Arizona Cardinals. The Rams trailed in the 2nd quarter with Cardinals kicker Jay Feely nailing a 22-yard field goal, which was replied when Rams kicker Josh Brown made a 46-yard... |
L 33–36 | 3–8 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | Fox | Recap |
| 13 | December 5 | 11:00 am MST | at Kansas City Chiefs 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season The 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st overall and the second under the head coach/general manager tandem of Todd Haley and Scott Pioli. The team improved on its 4–12 record from 2009, and won their first AFC West division title... |
L 6–10 | 3–9 | Arrowhead Stadium Arrowhead Stadium Arrowhead Stadium is a stadium located in Kansas City, Missouri and home to the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs.... |
CBS | Recap |
| 14 | December 12 | 2:15 pm MST | at Arizona Cardinals 2010 Arizona Cardinals season The 2010 Arizona Cardinals season is the 91st season for the team in the National Football League, and their 23rd season in Arizona. The Cardinals failed to improve on their 10–6 record from 2009, and were eliminated from postseason contention in Week 15.... |
L 13–43 | 3–10 | University of Phoenix Stadium University of Phoenix Stadium University of Phoenix Stadium, opened August 1, 2006, is a multipurpose football stadium located in Glendale, Arizona. It is the home of the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League and the annual Fiesta Bowl... |
CBS | Recap |
| 15 | December 19 | 2:15 pm MST | at Oakland Raiders 2010 Oakland Raiders season The 2010 Oakland Raiders season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League and their 51st overall. It also marked the last full season under the ownership of Al Davis, who died in October 2011. The Raiders had improved from a five-win season, their first since 2002, and achieved... |
L 23–39 | 3–11 | Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum | CBS | Recap |
| 16 | December 26 | 2:05 pm MST | Houston Texans 2010 Houston Texans season The 2010 Houston Texans season was the team's 9th season in the National Football League. The Texans claimed their first winning season in franchise history, with a 9–7 record in 2009, but narrowly missed the playoffs. The Texans selected Kareem Jackson CB from Alabama, with the 20th overall all... |
W 24–23 | 4–11 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
| 17 | January 2, 2011 | 2:15 pm MST | San Diego Chargers 2010 San Diego Chargers season The 2010 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, and their 51st overall. After a 13–3 record dissolved into a disappointing loss to the New York Jets in the divisional round of the 2009-10 NFL Playoffs, the Chargers had high hopes of winning their... |
L 28–33 | 4–12 | INVESCO Field at Mile High | CBS | Recap |
LEGEND:
- The game was simulcast locally on KTVDKTVDKTVD, virtual channel 20 is a MyNetworkTV-affiliated television station based in Denver, Colorado, and is owned by the Gannett Company. The station is a sister to KUSA, Denver's NBC affiliate and is housed and operated out of KUSA's high definition studios...
. - The Broncos wore their alternate orange jerseys.
- Blue/Red indicates the International Series game in London.
Week 1 roster
| Denver Broncos 2010 Week 1 roster | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
|
Offensive Linemen
D'Anthony Batiste D'Anthony Batiste is an American football offensive tackle for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. He was signed by the Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings in 2006... T Zane Beadles -External links:**... G R Ryan Clady -Denver Broncos:Following Week 12 of the 2008 NFL season, Peter King of Sports Illustrated said Clady was the third-best rookie overall. On December 12, 2008, Clady won the Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week award, after his game against the Kansas City Chiefs... T Chris Clark (American football) Chris Clark is an American football offensive tackle for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Southern Mississippi... T Stanley Daniels (American football) Stanley E. Daniels, II is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2007... G Ryan Harris (American football) Ryan Emerson Wilcox Harris is an American football offensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Notre Dame.... T Russ Hochstein Russ Hochstein is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2001 NFL Draft... G/C Chris Kuper Chris Kuper is an American football offensive guard for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League. He is currently the Broncos starting right guard.... G J. D. Walton -Denver Broncos:Walton was selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He was the second center to be picked in the draft, after first rounder Maurkice Pouncey. Walton signed a four-year contract on June 17, 2010.... C R Defensive Linemen
|
Linebackers
Robert Ayers -Denver Broncos:Ayers was drafted by the Denver Broncos as the second one of their two first round picks at 18th overall of the 2009 NFL Draft. On August 4, 2009, Ayers signed a five-year contract with $9.7 million guaranteed. In his rookie season he recorded 19 tackles and no sacks... OLB/DE Mario Haggan Mario Marcell Haggan is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Mississippi State.-Early years:Haggan grew up in a poverty-stricken area of... ILB Joe Mays (American football) Joseph Lamont "Joe" Mays is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at North Dakota State.-Early years:Joe attended Hyde Park High School... ILB Jarvis Moss Jarvis Jaray Moss is an American football defensive end for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League . Moss was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football for the Florida Gators.-High school career:Moss was born in Denton, Texas... OLB/DE Wesley Woodyard Wesley Woodyard is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played collegiately for the University of Kentucky, where he helped lead the team to a victory in Music City Bowl over Clemson in 2006.-High school career:Woodyard was born in LaGrange,... ILB Defensive Backs
Special Teams
|
Reserve Lists
Elvis Dumervil -Denver Broncos:Dumervil was drafted in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan stated that he planned to keep Dumervil at defensive end.... OLB/DE (IR) Kyle Eckel Kyle Eckel is an American football fullback in the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2005... FB (IR) Braxton Kelley Braxton Kelley is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Kentucky.-External links:*... ILB (IR) Kenny McKinley Kendrick L. McKinley was an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Broncos in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Born in Mableton, Georgia, he graduated from South... WR (IR) Brandon Stokley Brandon Stokley is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft... WR (IR) LenDale White LenDale Anthony White is an American football running back. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Southern California.... RB (IR) Practice Squad
Notations
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Roster changes
- On September 14, the Broncos acquired running backRunning backA running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
Laurence MaroneyLaurence MaroneyLaurence Maroney is an American football running back who is currently a free agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 21st overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Minnesota.-Early years:Maroney attended Normandy Senior High School in St...
and a 20112011 NFL DraftThe 2011 NFL Draft was the 76th installment of the annual NFL Draft, where the franchises of the National Football League select newly eligible football players...
sixth-round draft pick from the New England PatriotsNew England PatriotsThe New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
for a 2011 fourth-round draft pick. That same day, wide receiverWide receiverA wide receiver is an offensive position in American and Canadian football, and is the key player in most of the passing plays. Only players in the backfield or the ends on the line are eligible to catch a forward pass. The two players who begin play at the ends of the offensive line are eligible...
Brandon StokleyBrandon StokleyBrandon Stokley is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft...
, who was placed on Injured Reserve during the team's final roster cut-down to 53 players ten days earlier (September 4), was released after reaching an injury settlement. Stokley later signed with the Seattle SeahawksSeattle SeahawksThe Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team...
on September 28. - On September 20, tragedy struck the Broncos' organization, when wide receiver Kenny McKinleyKenny McKinleyKendrick L. McKinley was an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Broncos in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Born in Mableton, Georgia, he graduated from South...
was found dead in his Centennial, ColoradoCentennial, ColoradoThe city of Centennial is a Home Rule City located in Arapahoe County, Colorado, United States, and part of the Denver-Aurora metropolitan area. The city was to have a total population of 100,377 in 2010 census. Centennial is the tenth-most populous municipality in the state of Colorado and its...
home of an apparent suicide, at the age of 23. The Denver PostThe Denver Post-Ownership:The Post is the flagship newspaper of MediaNews Group Inc., founded in 1983 by William Dean Singleton and Richard Scudder. MediaNews is today one of the nation's largest newspaper chains, publisher of 61 daily newspapers and more than 120 non-daily publications in 13 states. MediaNews...
later reported in December that McKinley had accumulated a large gambling debt prior to his death. McKinley was the team's 5th-round selection in the 2009 NFL Draft2009 NFL DraftThe 2009 NFL Draft was the seventy-fourth annual meeting of National Football League franchises to select newly eligible football players. The draft took place at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on April 25 and 26, 2009. The draft consisted of two rounds on the first day starting at 4:00...
. - On September 21, running back Andre BrownAndre Brown (American football)Andre Brown is an American football running back who is currently with the New York Giants on the practice squad in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Giants in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft...
was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster. - On October 16, the following roster moves were made: LinebackerLinebackerA linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen...
/defensive endDefensive endDefensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years...
Kevin AlexanderKevin Alexander (linebacker)Kevin Alexander is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Clemson.-Early years:...
and safety Kyle McCarthyKyle McCarthyKyle Justin McCarthy is an American football safety for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Notre Dame....
, both undrafted rookies, were moved from the practice squad to the active roster. Running back Andre Brown and offensive tackle D'Anthony BatisteD'Anthony BatisteD'Anthony Batiste is an American football offensive tackle for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. He was signed by the Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings in 2006...
were released. - On October 18, wide receiver Matthew Willis was placed on the season-ending Injured Reserve, after suffering a broken foot during the team's 24–20 loss to the New York JetsNew York JetsThe New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
the previous day. His roster spot was filled on October 19, with the promotion of linebacker Diyral BriggsDiyral BriggsDiyral Briggs is an American football linebacker for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Bowling Green....
from the practice squad to the active roster. Briggs was waived just six days later (October 25). - On October 26, defensive end Le Kevin SmithLe Kevin SmithLe Kevin Smith is an American football defensive lineman of the National Football League, who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft...
, who was released prior to the start of the season during the final roster cut-down to 53 players, was re-signed. Two weeks later, on November 9, Smith was once again released. - On November 9, the team signed former Cincinnati BengalsCincinnati BengalsThe Cincinnati Bengals are a professional football team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the AFC's North Division in the National Football League . The Bengals began play in 1968 as an expansion team in the American Football League , and joined the NFL in 1970 in the AFL-NFL...
' tight endTight endThe tight end is a position in American football on the offense. The tight end is often seen as a hybrid position with the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Like offensive linemen, they are usually lined up on the offensive line and are large enough to be...
Daniel CoatsDaniel Coats (American football)Daniel Coats is an American football Fullback who is currently a Free Agent. He was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2007...
. He was released the following day, when running back Lance BallLance BallLance Ball is an American football running back who is a member of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
was moved from the practice squad to the active roster. - On November 17, linebacker Jarvis MossJarvis MossJarvis Jaray Moss is an American football defensive end for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League . Moss was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football for the Florida Gators.-High school career:Moss was born in Denton, Texas...
was waived. His roster spot was filled when the team signed former Cleveland BrownsCleveland BrownsThe Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
' linebacker David VeikuneDavid Veikune-Cleveland Browns:Veikune was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft. The pick was acquired from the New York Jets in an earlier trade that allowed the Jets to draft quarterback Mark Sanchez....
. - On December 6, tight end Dan GronkowskiDan GronkowskiDan Gronkowski is an American football tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft...
and linebacker Joe MaysJoe Mays (American football)Joseph Lamont "Joe" Mays is an American football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at North Dakota State.-Early years:Joe attended Hyde Park High School...
were placed on Injured Reserve. Their roster spots were filled the following day (December 7), when the team re-signed tight end Daniel Coats and moved linebacker Lee RobinsonLee Robinson (American football)Lee Robinson is an Canadian football linebacker who is currently playing for the Edmonton Eskimos. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2009...
from the practice squad to the active roster. - On December 11, the Broncos signed placekickerPlacekickerPlacekicker, or simply kicker , is the title of the player in American and Canadian football who is responsible for the kicking duties of field goals, extra points...
Steven HauschkaSteven HauschkaSteven Hauschka is an American football placekicker for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
, due to a groin injury to incumbent placekicker Matt PraterMatt PraterMatt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. To make room for Hauschka, the team waived guardGuard (American football)In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team....
Stanley DanielsStanley Daniels (American football)Stanley E. Daniels, II is an American football guard for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2007...
. - On December 13, safety Kyle McCarthy was placed on Injured Reserve. His roster spot was filled, when wide receiver Britt DavisBritt DavisBritt Davis is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Northern Illinois.-Early years:Davis attended public schools in North Riverside, Illinois...
was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster. - On December 20, the Broncos waived linebacker Kevin Alexander. His roster spot was filled, when the team claimed cornerbackCornerbackA cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position...
Chevis JacksonChevis JacksonChevis Dauro Jackson is an American football cornerback he is currently a free agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
off waivers from the New England Patriots. - On December 22, fullback Spencer LarsenSpencer LarsenSpencer Larsen is an American football fullback and linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Broncos in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
was placed on Injured Reserve. His roster spot was filled, when guard Stanley Daniels, previously waived on December 11, was moved from the practice squad to the active roster. - On December 23, placekicker Matt Prater was placed on Injured Reserve. His roster spot was filled, when undrafted rookie guardGuard (American football)In American and Canadian football, a guard is a player that lines up between the center and the tackles on the offensive line of a football team....
Jeff ByersJeff ByersAfter going undrafted in the 2010 NFL Draft, Byers signed a free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks.-External links:*...
was moved from the practice squad to active roster. - On December 27, linebacker Lee Robinson was placed on Injured Reserve. His roster spot was filled, when the team signed defensive end/nose tackle Louis LeonardLouis LeonardLouis Leonard is an American football defensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2007. He played college football at Fresno State....
.
Week 1: at Jacksonville Jaguars
The Broncos began their 2010 season at EverBank Field against the Jacksonville Jaguars2010 Jacksonville Jaguars season
The 2010 Jacksonville Jaguars season was the 16th season for the team in the National Football League. The Jaguars, who are in their second year of "rebuilding" under general manager Gene Smith, improved upon their 7–9 record from 2009, but narrowly missed the playoffs with an 8–8 record...
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Broncos trailed late in the second quarter, as Jaguars' quarterback David Garrard
David Garrard
David Douglas Garrard is an American football quarterback who is currently a free agent.Garrard played college football at East Carolina. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft, and served as the team's starting quarterback from 2007 to 2010...
completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to tight end Marcedes Lewis
Marcedes Lewis
Marcedes Alexis Lewis is an American football tight end for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League. He was drafted from UCLA as the 28th pick in the 2006 NFL Draft...
. The Broncos would answer prior to halftime, as quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
found wide receiver Jabar Gaffney
Jabar Gaffney
Derrick Jabar Gaffney is an American football wide receiver for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
on an 8-yard touchdown pass. Jacksonville would re-claim the lead in the third quarter, as Garrard hooked up with Lewis again on a 10-yard touchdown pass. The Broncos would respond, with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
. However, Jacksonville grabbed the lead again, with a 45-yard field goal by placekicker Josh Scobee
Josh Scobee
Joshua Taylor Scobee is an American football placekicker, who currently plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League . He began his college football career as kicker for the Louisiana Tech University Bulldogs, setting several school records...
. The Broncos would catch up in the fourth quarter, with a 54-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. However, Jacksonville got the last laugh, as Garrard completed a 24-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kassim Osgood
Kassim Osgood
Kassim A. Osgood is an American football wide receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2003...
.
With the loss, the Broncos began its season at 0–1.
Week 2: vs. Seattle Seahawks
Hoping to rebound from their season-opening loss to the Jaguars, the Broncos played on home ground for an interconference duel with the Seattle Seahawks2010 Seattle Seahawks season
The 2010 Seattle Seahawks season was the 35th season for the team in the National Football League. Jim Mora was fired on January 8, 2010, leading the Seahawks to come to an agreement with Pete Carroll, instating him as head coach the following day. This marks the 9th season that the Seahawks will...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos took the early lead, as quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
completed a 13-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eddie Royal
Eddie Royal
William Edward "Eddie" Royal is an American football wide receiver and return specialist for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League...
, followed in the second quarter by a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Nebraska....
and a 20-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. Seattle got on the board in the third quarter, when quarterback Matt Hasselbeck
Matt Hasselbeck
Matthew Michael Hasselbeck is a National Football League quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft, and traded to Seattle in 2001. After becoming the starter in 2003, Hasselbeck led Seattle to six playoff appearances and...
completed an 11-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ben Obomanu
Ben Obomanu
Benjamin Ebenezer Obomanu is an American football wide receiver who was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 7th round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Obomanu played college football for the Auburn Tigers.-High School years:...
, but the Broncos replied with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
. The Broncos increased their lead in the fourth quarter, when Orton threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Antwon Thomas is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Thomas led the team in receiving in all 3 of his seasons at Tech, 2007, 2008,...
. Seattle replied, with Hasselbeck scrambling 20 yards for a touchdown, but the Broncos' lead was too much for Seattle to overcome.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 1–1.
Week 3: vs. Indianapolis Colts
Coming off their win over the Seahawks, the Broncos played on home ground for an AFC duel with the Indianapolis Colts2010 Indianapolis Colts season
The 2010 Indianapolis Colts season was the 58th season for the team in the National Football League, the 27th in Indianapolis, and the second under head coach Jim Caldwell...
. Prior to the game, a moment of silence was held for wide receiver Kenny McKinley
Kenny McKinley
Kendrick L. McKinley was an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Broncos in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Born in Mableton, Georgia, he graduated from South...
, who passed away on September 20, with the team paying tribute to him by placing a number 11 decal on their helmets in his honor. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early when Colts' placekicker Adam Vinatieri
Adam Vinatieri
Adam Matthew Vinatieri is an American football placekicker currently playing for the Indianapolis Colts. He has played in six Super Bowls, four with the New England Patriots and two with the Colts, winning four. Vinatieri won a Super Bowl in 2006 with Indianapolis and won Super Bowls in 2001,...
nailed field goals from 38 and 33 yards. This was followed in the second quarter by quarterback Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning
Peyton Williams Manning is an American football quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League . Manning holds the record for most NFL MVP awards with four. He was drafted by the Colts as the first overall pick in 1998 after a standout college football career with the...
throwing a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Austin Collie
Austin Collie
Austin Kirk Collie is a Canadian-American football wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Colts in the fourth round in the 2009 NFL Draft...
. The Broncos got on the board, with placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
nailing a 25-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Broncos cut the lead, when quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
completed a 48-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
, but Indianapolis replied, with Manning throwing a 9-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Blair White
Blair White
Blair White is an American football wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts. He was signed by the Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at Michigan State.-Early years:...
. The Broncos responded, with Prater hitting a 34-yard field goal, but they trailed further in the fourth quarter, when Manning found Collie on a 23-yard touchdown pass, sealing the win for Indianapolis.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 1–2.
Week 4: at Tennessee Titans
Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Colts, the Broncos flew to LP FieldLP Field
LP Field is a football stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, United States, owned by the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County....
for an AFC duel with the Tennessee Titans
2010 Tennessee Titans season
The 2010 Tennessee Titans season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League, their 51st overall and their 14th season in Tennessee...
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Broncos took the lead in the second quarter, as quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Eddie Royal
Eddie Royal
William Edward "Eddie" Royal is an American football wide receiver and return specialist for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League...
. Tennessee responded, with quarterback Vince Young
Vince Young
Vincent Paul Young, Jr. , nicknamed "VY", is an American football quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League . He spent the first five seasons of his career with the Tennessee Titans. Young was the third overall draft pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college...
throwing an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kenny Britt
Kenny Britt
-Tennessee Titans:Kenny Britt was drafted in the 1st round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He was Rutgers' first ever first-round pick. This was a surprising pick because many thought that he would be selected by the New York Giants with the pick immediately before the Titans picked...
. The Broncos would retake the lead, with a 36-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
, but Tennessee replied, when placekicker Rob Bironas
Rob Bironas
James Robert Douglas "Rob" Bironas is an American football placekicker for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He was signed by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2002. He played college football at Auburn University and Georgia Southern.Bironas was an All-Pro...
nailed an incredible 55-yard field goal just before halftime. In the third quarter, the Broncos took the lead again, with another 36-yard field goal by Prater, but Titans' wide receiver Marc Mariani
Marc Mariani
Marc Steven Mariani is an American football wide receiver for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He played college football for the Montana Grizzlies. He was drafted in the 7th round of the 2010 NFL Draft....
returned the ensuing kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown, putting Tennessee ahead 17–13. Tennessee's lead was narrowed, with a 35-yard field goal by Prater, but was increased again with a 46-yard field goal by Bironas. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos pulled ahead, when Orton completed a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Nebraska....
. After Tennessee fumbled the ensuing kickoff, the Broncos increased their lead with 28 seconds remaining, with a 36-yard field goal by Prater. The Broncos' defense thwarted Tennessee's final desperation drive of the game.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 2–2.
Week 5: at Baltimore Ravens
Coming off their win at Tennessee, the Broncos flew to M&T Bank StadiumM&T Bank Stadium
M&T Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the home of the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles. Served by the Hamburg Street station of...
for an AFC duel with the Baltimore Ravens
2010 Baltimore Ravens season
The 2010 Baltimore Ravens season was the 15th for the team in the National Football League and city of Baltimore, Maryland, and the 13th to host home games at M&T Bank Stadium. They played in the NFL's American Football Conference North Division...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, with Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco
Flacco was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens 18th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft, becoming the highest drafted player ever from the University of Delaware...
scrambling for a 1-yard touchdown, followed in the second quarter by a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Ray Rice
Ray Rice
Raymell Maurice Rice is an American football running back for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Ravens in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Rutgers. He is currently ranked as the Baltimore Ravens third all-time rusher in...
, and a 37-yard field goal by placekicker Billy Cundiff
Billy Cundiff
William A. "Billy" Cundiff is an American football placekicker for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
. The Broncos got on the board, when quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 42-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
. After a scoreless third quarter, the Broncos fell further behind in the fourth quarter, with another 1-yard touchdown run by Rice. The Broncos replied, with a 38-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
, but a 30-yard touchdown run by running back Willis McGahee
Willis McGahee
Willis Andrew McGahee III is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
put the Ravens' up 31–10. The Broncos responded, with Orton finding Lloyd again on a 44-yard touchdown pass, but Baltimore's lead was too much to overcome.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 2–3.
Week 6: vs. New York Jets
Hoping to rebound from their loss at Baltimore, the Broncos donned their alternate orange jerseys and returned home for an AFC duel with the New York Jets2010 New York Jets season
The 2010 New York Jets season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st season overall and the team's first season at New Meadowlands Stadium. The team improved on their 9–7 record from 2009 and reached the playoffs again. The Jets played their first pre-season game...
. After a scoreless first quarter, the Jets grabbed the lead in the second quarter, as quarterback Mark Sanchez
Mark Sanchez
Mark Travis John Sanchez is an American football quarterback for the New York Jets of the National Football League . He was drafted in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft as the fifth overall selection by the Jets and the second quarterback taken overall...
threw a 32-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Braylon Edwards
Braylon Edwards
-Cleveland Browns:-2005:Edwards began his rookie season as Cleveland's third wide receiver – he would have started higher, but a hold-out caused him to miss the beginning of training camp. Early in the season Edwards revealed that he had a staph infection, and missed a few weeks as a result of it....
. The Broncos responded, with quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
scrambling for a 5-yard touchdown run. The Broncos grabbed the lead just before halftime, with a 59-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. In the third quarter, the Jets responded, with a 56-yard field goal by placekicker Nick Folk
Nick Folk
Nicholas "Nick" Alexander Folk is an American football kicker who currently plays for the New York Jets of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
. The Broncos took the lead, when quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Antwon Thomas is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Thomas led the team in receiving in all 3 of his seasons at Tech, 2007, 2008,...
. The Jets responded midway through the fourth quarter, after running back LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tramayne Tomlinson is an American football running back for the New York Jets of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers fifth overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas Christian.Tomlinson, often referred to by his initials, L...
ran for a 20-yard touchdown. The Broncos grabbed the lead again, with a 48-yard field goal by Prater. However, following a pass-interference penalty on Broncos' cornerback Renaldo Hill
Renaldo Hill
Renaldo Hill is an American football safety who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan State....
near the goal line, the Jets pulled ahead, with a Tomlinson 2-yard touchdown run. The Jets' defense thwarted the Broncos' last drive of the game.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 2–4.
Week 7: vs. Oakland Raiders
Hoping to rebound from their heartbreaking loss to the Jets, the Broncos played on home ground for an AFC WestAFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
rivalry match against the Oakland Raiders
2010 Oakland Raiders season
The 2010 Oakland Raiders season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League and their 51st overall. It also marked the last full season under the ownership of Al Davis, who died in October 2011. The Raiders had improved from a five-win season, their first since 2002, and achieved...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, as Raiders' quarterback Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell is an American football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
completed a 43-yard touchdown pass to tight end Zach Miller
Zach Miller
Zachary Joseph Miller is an American football tight end for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was drafted in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders. He played college football at Arizona State.-Early years:Miller Attended Desert Vista High School in...
. Oakland scored again, after cornerback Chris Johnson
Chris Johnson (cornerback)
Christopher Mario Johnson is an American football cornerback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Louisville. Johnson previously played for the St...
returned an interception by quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
30 yards for a touchdown. This was followed by a 4-yard touchdown run by running back Darren McFadden
Darren McFadden
Darren McFadden is an American football running back who currently plays for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League . He played college football for the University of Arkansas from 2005 to 2007...
and a 31-yard field goal by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski
Sebastian Janikowski
Sebastian Janikowski is a left-footed Polish placekicker who plays for the National Football League's Oakland Raiders. He is nicknamed The Polish Cannon because he is considered to have one of the strongest kicking legs in the league, and leads the NFL in kickoffs for touchbacks. He lives in...
. Things got much worse for the Broncos in the second quarter, as Campbell threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to McFadden, followed by a McFadden 4-yard touchdown run that put Oakland up 38–0 midway through the second quarter. The Broncos would finally get on the board, with Orton finding running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
on a 7-yard touchdown pass, followed in the third quarter by a 27-yard touchdown pass from Orton to Moreno. Oakland struck back, with a 1-yard touchdown run by fullback Marcel Reece
Marcel Reece
Marcel Reece is the starting American football fullback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He played college football at Washington. He played his first game for the Raiders during week 16 of the 2009 season against the Cleveland Browns in which he caught one pass for 9 yards...
, followed by a 57-yard touchdown run by McFadden and a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Michael Bush
Michael Bush
Michael Bush is an American football running back for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
. Both teams were held scoreless in the fourth quarter.
The Broncos not only fell to 2–5, but suffered their worst defeat since a 55–10 loss to the San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and...
in Super Bowl XXIV
Super Bowl XXIV
Super Bowl XXIV was an American football game played on January 28, 1990 at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana to decide the National Football League champion following the 1989 regular season...
. The loss also tied the highest point total that the Broncos have allowed in a single game, since a 59–7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a...
in .
Week 8: at San Francisco 49ers
International SeriesNFL International Series
Beginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
Following their disastrous home loss to the Raiders, the Broncos flew to London, England, for an International Series
NFL International Series
Beginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
contest with the San Francisco 49ers
2010 San Francisco 49ers season
The 2010 San Francisco 49ers season was the franchise's 65th season, and the second full year with Mike Singletary as the head coach. The 49ers were looking to build upon their 8–8 season in 2009 that ended their streak of seven consecutive losing seasons and to get into the postseason for the...
at Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, with a 34-yard field goal by 49ers' placekicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
. After a scoreless second quarter, the Broncos grabbed the lead in the third quarter, when quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
scrambled for a 1-yard touchdown run, followed in the fourth quarter by a 32-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. However, the Broncos suddenly fell behind, with 49ers' quarterback Troy Smith
Troy Smith
Troy James Smith is an American football quarterback for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens of the NFL in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Ohio State.Smith has also played for the San Francisco 49ers. He...
scrambling for a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by his 28-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Michael Crabtree
Michael Crabtree
Michael Alex Crabtree is an American football wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the 49ers with the 10th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football for Texas Tech, where he received recognition as one of the nation's...
, and a 3-yard touchdown run by running back Frank Gore
Frank Gore
Franklin Gore is an American football running back who plays for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He played college football at the University of Miami. NFL Network analysts have nicknamed Gore "The Inconvenient Truth".-High school career:Gore attended Coral Gables High...
. The Broncos tried to rally when quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
(with a blocked extra-point attempt), but San Francisco's defense stood their ground.
With the loss, the Broncos went into their bye
Bye (sports)
A bye, in sports and other competitive activities, most commonly refers to the practice of allowing a player or team to advance to the next round of a playoff tournament without playing...
week at 2–6.
Less than a month later, the Broncos were subjected to a videotaping scandal involving the team's director of video operations that occurred during a 49ers' walkthrough practice, one day before the game.
Week 10: vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Coming off their overseas trip to London and subsequent bye week, the Broncos donned their alternate orange jerseys and returned home for an AFC WestAFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
duel against the Kansas City Chiefs
2010 Kansas City Chiefs season
The 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st overall and the second under the head coach/general manager tandem of Todd Haley and Scott Pioli. The team improved on its 4–12 record from 2009, and won their first AFC West division title...
, hoping to snap a 4-game losing streak. In the first quarter, quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, playing on his 28th birthday, threw three touchdown passes: a 17-yarder to running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
, a 6-yarder to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
and a 40-yarder to wide receiver Jabar Gaffney
Jabar Gaffney
Derrick Jabar Gaffney is an American football wide receiver for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
. In the second quarter, quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
ran for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by linebacker Jason Hunter returning a fumble 75 yards for a touchdown, giving the Broncos a commanding 35–0 lead before the two-minute warning. Kansas City got on the board, with a 5-yard touchdown run from running back Jamaal Charles
Jamaal Charles
Jamaal RaShaad Jones Charles is an American football running back for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
, followed by a 40-yard field goal by placekicker Ryan Succop
Ryan Succop
Ryan Barrow Succop is an American football placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He is the 2009 Mr. Irrelevant after being selected by the Chiefs with the final pick of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Succop attended...
just before halftime. In the third quarter, Tim Tebow threw his first touchdown pass – a 3-yarder to fullback Spencer Larsen
Spencer Larsen
Spencer Larsen is an American football fullback and linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Broncos in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
, but Kansas City responded, with quarterback Matt Cassel
Matt Cassel
Matthew Brennan "Matt" Cassel is a quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
throwing a 15-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Dwayne Bowe
Dwayne Bowe
-2007:On August 5, 2007, Bowe signed a five-year contract with the Chiefs, after holding out the first week of practice at training camp.Bowe scored his first NFL touchdown on a pass from Damon Huard in the first half of the Chiefs' game against the Chicago Bears on September 16, 2007.In his rookie...
. In the fourth quarter, Orton threw his fourth touchdown pass of the game – a 15-yarder to Lloyd. Kansas City responded, with Cassel throwing a pair of touchdown passes – an 11-yarder to wide receiver Chris Chambers
Chris Chambers
Christopher J. "Chris" Chambers is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft...
, followed by a 22-yarder to Bowe (both with failed two-point conversion attempts), but the outcome had already been decided in the Broncos' favor.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 3–6.
Week 11: at San Diego Chargers
Coming off their dominating win over the Chiefs, the Broncos flew to Qualcomm StadiumQualcomm Stadium
Qualcomm Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium, in San Diego, California, in the Mission Valley area....
for an AFC West
AFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
duel with the San Diego Chargers
2010 San Diego Chargers season
The 2010 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, and their 51st overall. After a 13–3 record dissolved into a disappointing loss to the New York Jets in the divisional round of the 2009-10 NFL Playoffs, the Chargers had high hopes of winning their...
on Monday Night Football
Monday Night Football
Monday Night Football is a live broadcast of the National Football League on ESPN. From to it aired on ABC. Monday Night Football was, along with Hallmark Hall of Fame, and the Walt Disney anthology television series, one of the longest running prime time commercial network television series...
. The Broncos delivered the opening strike in the first quarter, with a 4-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
. However, San Diego answered, with quarterback Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers is an American football quarterback for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League . He was one half of the Manning-Rivers draft trade which sent him to San Diego and the 1st overall pick, Ole Miss quarterback Eli Manning, to the New York Giants. Rivers played college...
completing a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Malcom Floyd
Malcom Floyd
Malcom Floyd is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He played college football at Wyoming...
. San Diego took the lead in the second quarter, as fullback Mike Tolbert
Mike Tolbert
Mike Tolbert is an American football Running Back for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
ran for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by Rivers completing a 40-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Patrick Crayton
Patrick Crayton
Patrick Jamel Crayton is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was a originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys...
. San Diego would add to their lead in the third quarter, as Rivers completed a 57-yard touchdown pass to running back Darren Sproles
Darren Sproles
Darren Lee Sproles is an American football running back of the NFL who plays for the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
. In the fourth quarter, San Diego continued their dominating night, with Rivers completing a 3-yard touchdown pass to fullback Jacob Hester
Jacob Hester
Jacob Troy Hester is a fullback for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Chargers in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
. The Broncos tried to rally, as quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
found wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
on a 13-yard touchdown pass, but San Diego's lead was too much to overcome.
With the loss, Denver fell to 3–7.
Week 12: vs. St. Louis Rams
Following their Monday NightMonday Night Football
Monday Night Football is a live broadcast of the National Football League on ESPN. From to it aired on ABC. Monday Night Football was, along with Hallmark Hall of Fame, and the Walt Disney anthology television series, one of the longest running prime time commercial network television series...
debacle in San Diego and subsequent videotaping scandal, the Broncos returned home for an interconference match against the St. Louis Rams
2010 St. Louis Rams season
-Schedule:-Week 1: vs. Arizona Cardinals:The St. Louis Rams began their season at home for an NFC West match against the Arizona Cardinals. The Rams trailed in the 2nd quarter with Cardinals kicker Jay Feely nailing a 22-yard field goal, which was replied when Rams kicker Josh Brown made a 46-yard...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos jumped out to a 10–0 lead, with a 4-yard touchdown run from running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
, followed by a 49-yard field goal by placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
. St. Louis responded, with quarterback Sam Bradford
Sam Bradford
Samuel Jacob "Sam" Bradford is an American football quarterback for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and played college football at Oklahoma. In 2008, as a redshirt sophomore, Bradford became the second sophomore to win a...
throwing a 36-yard touchdown pass to tight end Michael Hoomanawanui
Michael Hoomanawanui
-St. Louis Rams:He was drafted by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. On June 26, 2010 he signed a four-year, $2.4 million contract including a $215,000 signing bonus. He made the opening day roster.-External links:**...
. In the second quarter, The Broncos took a 13–7 lead, with a 40-yard field goal by Prater. However, St. Louis would reel off 26 unanswered points, starting off with a pair of touchdown passes from Bradford to tight end Billy Bajema
Billy Bajema
Billy Bajema is an American football tight end for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
– 2 and 26 yards – the latter with a missed extra point, followed by a pair of field goals from placekicker Josh Brown – 28 and 37 yards – before halftime. In the third quarter, St. Louis continued their offensive onslaught, with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Kenneth Darby
Kenneth Darby
Kenneth Darby is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Darby has also been a member of the Atlanta Falcons. He played college football at Alabama.-Early...
, giving St. Louis a 33–13 lead. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos snapped the Rams' streak of 26 unanswered points, with quarterback Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
throwing a 41-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
, but St. Louis responded with a 26-yard field goal from Brown. Trailing 36–20 with four minutes remaining, the Broncos tried to rally, with Orton throwing two touchdown passes – a 16-yarder to wide receiver Eddie Royal
Eddie Royal
William Edward "Eddie" Royal is an American football wide receiver and return specialist for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League...
(with a failed two-point conversion attempt), followed by a 5-yarder to Lloyd, but the Broncos' rally attempt was cut short by the Rams' defense.
With the loss, the Broncos dropped to 3–8, matching their loss total from the previous two seasons.
Week 13: at Kansas City Chiefs
Hoping to break a two-game losing streak, the Broncos flew to Arrowhead StadiumArrowhead Stadium
Arrowhead Stadium is a stadium located in Kansas City, Missouri and home to the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs....
for a AFC West rivalry rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs
2010 Kansas City Chiefs season
The 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st overall and the second under the head coach/general manager tandem of Todd Haley and Scott Pioli. The team improved on its 4–12 record from 2009, and won their first AFC West division title...
. The Broncos trailed in the first quarter, as Chiefs' quarterback Matt Cassel
Matt Cassel
Matthew Brennan "Matt" Cassel is a quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to tight end Leonard Pope
Leonard Pope
Leonard Pope is an American football tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia...
, in what would be the game's only touchdown. The Broncos responded in the second quarter, with placekicker Matt Prater
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is an American football placekicker who plays for the Denver Broncos. He was originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at the University of Central Florida, where he majored in psychology.-High school career:Prater attended...
nailing a 25-yard field goal, but Kansas City countered, with a 47-yard field goal by placekicker Ryan Succop
Ryan Succop
Ryan Barrow Succop is an American football placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He is the 2009 Mr. Irrelevant after being selected by the Chiefs with the final pick of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Succop attended...
just before halftime. After a scoreless third quarter, the Broncos cut into the lead with a 41-yard field goal by Prater, but Kansas City's defense prevented anything else from happening.
With the loss, the Broncos fell to 3–9, and were officially eliminated from postseason contention. One day later, head coach Josh McDaniels
Josh McDaniels
Josh McDaniels is the former head coach of the Denver Broncos and currently the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Rams. He previously served as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots...
was fired, and replaced by running backs coach Eric Studesville
Eric Studesville
Eric Studesville is an American football coach. In December 2010, Studesville became the interim head coach of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He replaced Josh McDaniels after 12 games in the 2010 NFL Season...
on an interim basis for the remainder of the season.
Week 14: at Arizona Cardinals
Hoping to snap a three-game losing streak, the Broncos flew to University of Phoenix StadiumUniversity of Phoenix Stadium
University of Phoenix Stadium, opened August 1, 2006, is a multipurpose football stadium located in Glendale, Arizona. It is the home of the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League and the annual Fiesta Bowl...
for an interconference duel with the Arizona Cardinals
2010 Arizona Cardinals season
The 2010 Arizona Cardinals season is the 91st season for the team in the National Football League, and their 23rd season in Arizona. The Cardinals failed to improve on their 10–6 record from 2009, and were eliminated from postseason contention in Week 15....
, whom the Broncos had never lost to in the teams' previous eight meetings. The Broncos took the early lead in the first quarter, with a 32-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka is an American football placekicker for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
. However, Arizona responded, as placekicker Jay Feely
Jay Feely
Thomas James "Jay" Feely is an American football placekicker for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. Jay played for the Temple Terrace Spirit Soccer team that won the National Championships when he was 16....
would account for 22 unanswered points – a 36-yard field goal in the first quarter, a 48-yard field goal, 5-yard touchdown run off a fake field goal and a 55-yard field goal in the second quarter, a 23-yard field goal in the third quarter, and a 49-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. A 30-yard field goal by Hauschka would cut the lead to 22–6, but Arizona would answer, with an 8-yard touchdown run by running back Tim Hightower
Tim Hightower
-Arizona Cardinals:Hightower scored 10 touchdowns during his rookie season, and another 3 in the post season while averaging a meager 2.8 yards per carry. He would rush for a total amount of 399 yards in 2008. Hightower would then become the only Cardinal rookie running back ever to have scored a...
. The Broncos would respond, with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Rockwell Moreno is an American football running back for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Broncos. He played college football at the University of Georgia.-Early years:Moreno grew up in Belford, a neighborhood in...
, but Arizona pulled away, with Hightower running for a 35-yard touchdown, followed by linebacker Daryl Washington
Daryl Washington
Daryl Washington is an American football linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals. He attended Texas Christian University. Washington was chosen by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2nd round of the 2010 NFL Draft.-High school career:...
returning an interception 40 yards (and defensive end Darnell Dockett
Darnell Dockett
Darnell Maurice Dockett is an American football defensive end who currently plays for the Arizona Cardinals of the NFL. Arizona picked him in the 3rd round of the 2004 NFL Draft...
recovering a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown).
With the loss, the Broncos not only dropped to 3–10, but also suffered their first-ever loss to the Cardinals. The loss also guarantees that the Broncos will finish in fourth-place in the AFC West
AFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
at the end of the season.
Week 15: at Oakland Raiders
Hoping to snap a four-game losing streak, the Broncos flew to the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, for an AFC WestAFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
divisional rematch with the Oakland Raiders
2010 Oakland Raiders season
The 2010 Oakland Raiders season was the team's 41st season in the National Football League and their 51st overall. It also marked the last full season under the ownership of Al Davis, who died in October 2011. The Raiders had improved from a five-win season, their first since 2002, and achieved...
. In the first quarter, Oakland grabbed the early lead, with a 71-yard touchdown run by wide receiver Jacoby Ford
Jacoby Ford
Jacoby Ford is an American football wide receiver for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He is also an accomplished track and field athlete. He played college football as a wide receiver and return specialist for the Clemson Tigers at Clemson University...
. The Broncos responded, when quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
, starting in place of an injured Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, scrambled for a 40-yard touchdown run. The Broncos grabbed the lead, when Tebow threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
, but Oakland responded, with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Michael Bush
Michael Bush
Michael Bush is an American football running back for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
. In the second quarter, the Broncos lead again, with a 46-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka is an American football placekicker for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
, but Oakland would tie the game, with a 49-yard field goal by placekicker Sebastian Janikowski
Sebastian Janikowski
Sebastian Janikowski is a left-footed Polish placekicker who plays for the National Football League's Oakland Raiders. He is nicknamed The Polish Cannon because he is considered to have one of the strongest kicking legs in the league, and leads the NFL in kickoffs for touchbacks. He lives in...
just before halftime. In the third quarter, Oakland grabbed the lead, with a 35-yard field goal by Janikowski. The Broncos responded, with a 35-yard field goal by Hauschka. Oakland lead again, with a 47-yard field goal by Janikowski. In the fourth quarter, Oakland widened their lead, when quarterback Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell is an American football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
threw a 73-yard touchdown pass to fullback Marcel Reece
Marcel Reece
Marcel Reece is the starting American football fullback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He played college football at Washington. He played his first game for the Raiders during week 16 of the 2009 season against the Cleveland Browns in which he caught one pass for 9 yards...
. The Broncos narrowed the lead, with a 45-yard field goal by Hauschka, but Oakland pulled away, when linebacker Quentin Groves
Quentin Groves
-Heart surgery:While undergoing medical tests at the NFL Combine, Groves was discovered to have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, which results in him having a rapid heartbeat because of electrical impulses in the heart taking extra pathways...
tackled running back Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Nebraska....
in the end zone for a safety, followed by a 1-yard touchdown by Bush.
With the loss, the Broncos not only dropped to 3–11, but also tied their franchise record for losses in a season.
Week 16: vs. Houston Texans
Hoping to snap a five-game losing streak, the Broncos returned home for a game against the Houston Texans2010 Houston Texans season
The 2010 Houston Texans season was the team's 9th season in the National Football League. The Texans claimed their first winning season in franchise history, with a 9–7 record in 2009, but narrowly missed the playoffs. The Texans selected Kareem Jackson CB from Alabama, with the 20th overall all...
. In the first quarter, the Broncos trailed early, after a 3-yard touchdown run by Texans' running back Arian Foster
Arian Foster
Arian Foster , is an American football running back for the Houston Texans. He was signed by the Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2009 and was added to their active roster from the practice squad on November 17, 2009. He played college football at Tennessee...
, followed in the second quarter by a 3-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matt Schaub
Matt Schaub
Matthew Rutledge Schaub is the starting quarterback for the Houston Texans. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at Virginia.-College career:...
to tight end Owen Daniels
Owen Daniels
Owen Daniels is an American football tight end and emergency backup quarterback for the Houston Texans of the National Football League...
, and a 34-yard field goal by placekicker Neil Rackers
Neil Rackers
Neil William Rackers is an American football placekicker for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft...
, giving Houston a 17–0 halftime lead. The Broncos got on the board in the third quarter, with a 6-yard touchdown run by running back Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter
Correll Buckhalter is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Nebraska....
, but Houston responded, with a 54-yard field goal by Rackers. The Broncos cut into the Texans' lead, with a 27-yard field goal by placekicker Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka
Steven Hauschka is an American football placekicker for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
, but Houston responded with a 57-yard field goal by Rackers, giving Houston a 23–10 lead. In the fourth quarter, the Broncos staged a rally, with a 23-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
to Buckhalter, followed by Tebow scrambling for a 6-yard touchdown run, giving the Broncos a 24–23 lead with three minutes remaining. The Broncos' defense thwarted Houston's final drive.
With the win, the Broncos improved to 4–11.
Week 17: vs. San Diego Chargers
The Broncos' final game of the 2010 season was an AFC WestAFC West
The AFC West is a division of the National Football League's American Football Conference, currently comprising the Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Oakland Raiders.-History:...
divisional rematch with the San Diego Chargers
2010 San Diego Chargers season
The 2010 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, and their 51st overall. After a 13–3 record dissolved into a disappointing loss to the New York Jets in the divisional round of the 2009-10 NFL Playoffs, the Chargers had high hopes of winning their...
. The Broncos took the lead in the first quarter, with a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow
Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
to wide receiver Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Lloyd
Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
. However, San Diego responded in the second quarter, with a 27-yard touchdown run by running back Ryan Mathews
Ryan Mathews (American football)
-San Diego Chargers:On August 1, 2010, Mathews signed a five-year, $26.65 million contract with the Chargers. The deal includes $15 million guaranteed....
, followed by field goals from 42, 45 and 47 yards by placekicker Nate Kaeding
Nate Kaeding
Nathaniel James Kaeding is an American football placekicker who plays for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Chargers in the 2004 NFL Draft in the 3rd round with a pick acquired from the Phillip Rivers-Eli Manning trade. He played college football at Iowa...
. San Diego added to their lead in the third quarter, with a 12-yard touchdown run by Mathews, followed by a 37-yard field goal by Kaeding. The Broncos narrowed San Diego's lead, with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Tebow to wide receiver Eric Decker
Eric Decker
Eric Decker is an American football wide receiver for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft...
, but was increased in the fourth quarter, with a 31-yard touchdown run by Mathews. Trailing 33–14 with 7:55 remaining in the game, the Broncos immediately responded, when kick returner Cassius Vaughn
Cassius Vaughn
Cassius M. Vaughn is an American football cornerback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League...
returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown, followed by a 6-yard touchdown scramble by Tebow with 26 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Following Tebow's touchdown run, the Broncos recovered the onside kick, but two desperation hail mary passes by Tebow were unsuccessful, sealing the win for San Diego.
With the loss, the Broncos finished the 2010 season at 4–12, setting a new franchise record for losses in a single season.
Videotaping scandal
On November 27, one day before the team's 36–33 loss to the St. Louis Rams2010 St. Louis Rams season
-Schedule:-Week 1: vs. Arizona Cardinals:The St. Louis Rams began their season at home for an NFC West match against the Arizona Cardinals. The Rams trailed in the 2nd quarter with Cardinals kicker Jay Feely nailing a 22-yard field goal, which was replied when Rams kicker Josh Brown made a 46-yard...
, media reports stated the Broncos had come under investigation from the NFL
National Football League
The National Football League is the highest level of professional American football in the United States, and is considered the top professional American football league in the world. It was formed by eleven teams in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, with the league changing...
, following a videotaping incident similar to the New England Patriots' videotaping controversy of 2007. The Denver Post
The Denver Post
-Ownership:The Post is the flagship newspaper of MediaNews Group Inc., founded in 1983 by William Dean Singleton and Richard Scudder. MediaNews is today one of the nation's largest newspaper chains, publisher of 61 daily newspapers and more than 120 non-daily publications in 13 states. MediaNews...
reported that Steve Scarnecchia, the team's director of video operations hired by then-head coach Josh McDaniels
Josh McDaniels
Josh McDaniels is the former head coach of the Denver Broncos and currently the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Rams. He previously served as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots...
in 2009, videotaped a San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and...
' walkthrough practice, prior to the teams' Week 8 game at Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007...
in London, England. Scarnecchia, the son of New England Patriots
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia
Dante Scarnecchia
Dante Scarnecchia is the American football offensive line coach and assistant head coach for the New England Patriots of the National Football League...
, worked in the Patriots' (2001–2004) and the New York Jets
New York Jets
The New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
' (2006–2007) video departments prior to joining the Broncos in 2009. The Denver Post reported he was placed on a leave of absence by the team after the allegation came to light.
The same day, the NFL fined the Broncos and McDaniels $50,000 each, and Scarnecchia was fired as a result of the incident. Scarnecchia told NFL investigators he acted alone and "knew it was wrong" to tape the walkthrough practice, after the rest of the Broncos' staff had left the stadium. Scarnecchia later presented McDaniels with the six-minute video, but McDaniels declined to view it, and it was not shown to any other Broncos staff member, and therefore the NFL determined the Broncos had not gained a competitive advantage from it.
However, the NFL fined McDaniels due to the fact that he did not immediately report the incident to the league office, as required by policy. Team executives learned of the incident on November 8 and informed the NFL on November 16. NFL Security then began its investigation, which included a forensic analysis of the computer from which the recording was later deleted by Scarnecchia. The recording was retained by the league; in the case of the Patriots' prior incident, the league had destroyed all tapes received from the Patriots. The NFL also fined the Broncos, as "clubs are ultimately accountable for the conduct of their employees."
Because of Scarnecchia's involvement with the Patriots' video department (2001–2004) during the period (2000–Sept. 2007) of their accused illegal taping, the NFL determined Scarnecchia is subject to a hearing, as a repeat offender of NFL policy, on whether he should be banned from employment in the league. "A significant number" of Broncos employees also certified in writing to the league that they were aware of no further incidents, but NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
Roger Goodell
Roger S. Goodell is the Commissioner of the National Football League , having been chosen to succeed the retiring Paul Tagliabue on August 8, 2006. He was chosen over four finalists for the position, winning a close vote on the fifth ballot before being unanimously approved by acclamation of the...
said that if any more accusations came to light, he would re-open the investigation.
Firing of Josh McDaniels
On December 6, head coach Josh McDanielsJosh McDaniels
Josh McDaniels is the former head coach of the Denver Broncos and currently the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Rams. He previously served as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots...
was fired, one day after the team's 10–6 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs
2010 Kansas City Chiefs season
The 2010 Kansas City Chiefs season was the franchise's 41st season in the National Football League, the 51st overall and the second under the head coach/general manager tandem of Todd Haley and Scott Pioli. The team improved on its 4–12 record from 2009, and won their first AFC West division title...
in Week 13. Under McDaniels, the Broncos went 5–17 following a 6–0 start to the 2009
2009 Denver Broncos season
The 2009 Denver Broncos season was their 40th season in the NFL and 50th season overall. The Broncos matched their 8–8 regular season record from 2008 but did not make the playoffs. The Broncos welcomed many new defensive players signed during free agency, including veteran Eagles safety Brian...
season. Running backs coach Eric Studesville
Eric Studesville
Eric Studesville is an American football coach. In December 2010, Studesville became the interim head coach of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He replaced Josh McDaniels after 12 games in the 2010 NFL Season...
was named interim coach that same day.
Staff
| Denver Broncos 2010 staff | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Front Office
Head Coaches
Offensive Coaches
|
Defensive Coaches
Special Teams Coaches
Strength and Conditioning
|
|||||
Final roster
Awards and honors
| Recipient | Award(s) |
|---|---|
| Champ Bailey Champ Bailey Roland "Champ" Bailey is an American football cornerback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. Bailey was drafted in the 1st round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He played college football at the University of Georgia.Bailey is 8th among Broncos in all-time... |
Named to the All Fundamentals Team by the NFL Players Association Named to the Pro Bowl roster for the tenth time in his career, setting a new NFL record for cornerbacks |
| Brandon Lloyd Brandon Lloyd Brandon Matthew Lloyd is an American football wide receiver for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft... |
Named to the AFC Pro Bowl Pro Bowl In professional American football, the Pro Bowl is the all-star game of the National Football League . Since the merger with the rival American Football League in 1970, it has been officially called the AFC–NFC Pro Bowl, matching the top players in the American Football Conference against those... team. Lloyd led the NFL with 1,448 receiving yards Voted to The Associated Press 2010 NFL All-Pro Team All-Pro All-Pro is a term mostly used in the NFL for the best players of each position during that season. It began as polls of sportswriters in the early 1920s... |
| Kyle Orton Kyle Orton Kyle Orton is an American football quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He played college football at Purdue, where he started four straight bowl games. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft... |
Week 4: FedEx Air Player of the Week FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week Every week during the NFL season, six finalists are chosen for the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week award, 3 nominated as the FedEx Air player and 3 nominated as the FedEx Ground player , online at... . Week 10: AFC Offensive Player of the Week |
| Tim Tebow Tim Tebow Timothy Richard "Tim" Tebow is an American football player who is currently the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Broncos as the 25th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft... |
Week 10: Pepsi Rookie of the Week Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week Every week during the NFL season, five finalists are chosen for the Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week award, and a winner is determined by fan voting online at . At the end of the season, total fan voting from the year is tabulated to determine the five finalists for the Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the... Week 16: Pepsi Rookie of the Week |