20yardline

For the second time in three years, Mike Shanahan has pulled the trigger on a blockbuster trade for a top notch corner.  Three years ago, Shanahan traded Clinton Portis for Champ Bailey and a second round draft choice which he used to select RB Tatum Bell.  Now the coach has sent Bell, tackle George Foster, and a middle round draft choice to the Detroit Lions in exchange for two time Pro Bowl corner back Dre' Bly.

Tatum Bell had already lost favor in Denver with his fumbling problems and his lack of tough running.  Bell is a great home run threat when used sparingly.  Denver will miss the big plays he provided.  

Now the Denver Broncos enter free agency and the draft with their secondary looking a lot healthier.  Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly will form perhaps the best corner back tandem in the NFL with Foxworth a very good third corner in nickel situations.  The Broncos still need to address the running back position and could use some help on the offensive and defensive line.  The team could also use a defensive back who is a tweener, someone who can play safety, but also can cover the likes of Tony Gonzalez and Antonio Gates.

So far, Mike Shanahan once again looks like a genius after solidifying the corner back position after the tragic loss of Darrent Williams.  Stay tuned as more moves are coming. 

By A. Goodin, 20Yardline.com

March 2, 2007