Cheers/Jeers: A salute to Chris Harris Jr., the Broncos front office and you
Mar 20, 2020, 7:32 AM | Updated: 8:01 am
Do a little experiment for me. Sit back, close your eyes (Unless, of course, you’re walking or driving or something. Then, you know, just save this part for later.)
Imagine how much has changed in just more than a week. The coronavirus pandemic has caused an unimaginable disturbance in not just everyday life for you and me but for the entire planet.
But, it’s amazing what can happen when people take a breath, slow down for a minute and gain some perspective on what’s really important.
This week seems like a good time as ever to celebrate all of you — our listeners, the non-listeners, sports fans, Denverites, Coloradans and Coloradoans alike, so on and so forth.
Cheers to pro sports franchises stepping up to aid their employees. Cheers to those using this time to do good for others. Cheers to the creativity that seems to be on the precipice of blossoming.
It’s quite amazing what slowing down and taking in some perspective can do for the soul.
So, cheers to you.
As for the biggest sports-related story, at least as it concerns Broncos Country …
CHEERS | The Broncos front office
It’s been kind of a little while — probably as far back as the pre-Super Bowl 50 Peyton Manning era — where shrewd offseason moves have energized the Broncos fanbase.
Denver officially announced its previously reported trade for cornerback A.J. Bouye, who’s pegged to step right into the shoes of the outgoing Chris Harris Jr. (more on that later).
Also, John Elway and company, after being out-bid by the Cincinnati Bengals for nose tackle D.J. Reader, made a trade for a “top-flight defensive lineman” in Titans five-time Pro Bowler Jurrell Casey.
Said Elway:
What stands out with Jurrell is how hard he plays, providing a consistent interior pass rush and coupling that with a strong presence against the run. In addition to being a perennial Pro Bowler, Jurrell is a respected locker room and community presence who brings strong leadership qualities to the Broncos.
On the free agency front, Denver made a splash by signing offensive lineman Graham Glasgow — who’ll make a bookend partner with Dalton Risner at guard or a smart option at center — away from the Detroit Lions.
So, kudos to those whose offices reside on the second level down at UCHealth Training Center.
JEERS | Goodbye to CHJ
The writing on the wall for this one has been there for quite some time, but it still stings to see Chris Harris Jr. depart in free agency.
This week, the undrafted cornerback-turned-future Broncos Ring of Famer took his talents to Manhattan Beach to join up with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Harris brought a swagger and refreshing honesty to the table, and he’ll always be one of the best to Strap it on for the orange and blue.