Broncos Face Former Teammate in Eric Decker

Jun 17, 2014; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker talks to media during minicamp at Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Decker was one of the wide outs who helped the Denver Broncos set numerous offensive records in 2013. Now both sides must prepare to face each other on opposite sides of the field.

The Broncos will see Eric Decker for the first time since he became a free agent back in March and signed with the New York Jets, the Broncos’ opponent on Sunday. Two weeks ago, Steve Smith Sr. and the Carolina Panthers had their first meeting since he became a free agent and signed with the Baltimore Ravens. There was bitterness in that game, at least in Steve Smith’s eyes. But the Broncos and Eric Decker have talked all week to the media and have mentioned that there is no bitterness or that Eric Decker is out for revenge against the Broncos.

The reason because there was no bitterness between the two sides was due to the fact that both sides knew that the chances of having Eric Decker return to the team was slim to none at best. Eric Decker even knew that they were perhaps going in another direction during the offseason. Most of the Broncos were upset to see him leave. Peyton Manning is no exception to that as he enjoyed playing with Eric Decker and wanted him to stay.

Since joining the New York Jets, Eric Decker’s production has been less than impressive. However, he has had to learn under a new system, dealing with a quarterback controversy, and is the new leader of a young group of receivers. It will take some time for him to gel with the quarterback and to become a mentor to the receivers.

There is no doubt on what a playmaker Eric Decker was for the Broncos during his time there. He accumulated over 3,000 yards and 33 touchdowns during his time in Denver. He also was a favorite among Broncos’ fans. It was sad to see him go, but unfortunately that is how the business aspect of the league goes. With Demaryius Thomas, Julius Thomas, and Wes Welker in contract years in 2014 the team just could not afford to keep Eric Decker.

I don’t see this game being a battle for revenge for Eric Decker. Both sides have no hard feelings for each other and while the Jets are heading in an opposite direction than the Broncos, I think Eric Decker will look to give his best against his former team.