Lynched!

Yesterday, John Lynch asked to be released from the Broncos in order to play for another team (or retire). He exited before the Broncos had the chance to Lynch him from the team. A graceful bow- out? Absolutely. After skipping Tuesday night’s meeting and being excused from Wednesday morning’s practice, Lynch saw that the door was wide open at Dove Valley. He was with the team for 4 years after completing an 11 year stint in Tampa Bay. Lynch was concerned about his playing time being cut because the Broncos added Marlon McCree and Marquand Manuel (both starting safeties) in the off-season. Lynch was not satisfied with only a role as “mentor.” In fact, Hamza Abdullah, who soaked in every word Lynch offered, looks to be Lynch’s replacement in the eight-man box.

Abdullah said this about Lynch: “He’s the best safety I’ve ever played with, but he’s also going down as one of the best safeties in league history. When I came off the field, he’s always the first one to talk to me. ‘Hamza, you did this right, you did this wrong.’ He grades me hard. His standards for me are almost as high as I put on myself. For a guy to invest that much in me, I love that about John.”

Lynch was the heart and soul of this defense and he was selected to the Pro Bowl 9 times, but his character off the field reflects more than anything. He was a true humanitarian developing community programs to build leadership skills in young kids, providing financial assistance to student-athletes, and making Christmas wishes come true for underprivileged children. The list goes on and on as does the number of service awards that he has been honored with.  

I don’t know if another team wants a 37 year-old safety in their starting lineup even if it is John Lynch. Regardless, P.O. wishes him the best for the future.