Vance Joseph’s Vision For The Team Reflects In Practice
By Cody Roark
When Vance Joseph became the Head Coach of the Broncos he spoke of his vision of competing. In practice, his vision is evident and visible on the field.
For Vance Joseph, focus is an important element for a first year head coach. During today’s training camp it was visually evident.
Midway through practice Zaire Anderson tackled Stevan Ridley near the sidelines. Shortly after, Ty Sambrailo didn’t appreciate the tackle and confronted Anderson.
The Broncos engaged in one of the first scuffles of training camp. Something that is common across the NFL during these practices.
As this one began it abruptly ended. Vance Joseph’s whistle blew and the team gathered with him at the center. Is this where a coach curses his players out? Not in this instance.
Calm, cool, and collected: Vance Joseph simply gathered his players and regained their focus.
"“The message was, ‘Stop the nonsense. Let’s finish practice.” – Vance Joseph on what the message was in the team huddle during practice (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
Furthermore, for Vance Joseph he is ahead of the pack when it comes to the nature of coaching. It’s easy to get caught up in the scuffles, media, and outside distractions, but Joseph has laser focus.
The NFL is a business that operates with or without you. Time cannot be wasted and Joseph has a firm understanding of that.
The most sought out question Joseph hears mostly about deals with the pending quarterback competition. “What are your thoughts on the Quarterback race?” “Who is ahead in your opinion?”
Joseph’s ability to field questions that require an articulate response without hesitation is revealing enough for me. If I were hiring somebody to be my PR specialist, Joseph would be my top candidate.
But Joseph is an NFL coach and that right there is pressure enough. After stating that he wasn’t happy with either QB’s performance on Sunday, Joseph came away from today’s practice more pleased with their follow up.
"“I was. They came out and they were sharp early on. It wasn’t perfect, but it was better than yesterday.” – Vance Joseph on whether he was more pleased with the quarterback play today (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
As the days change, so does the nature of the business. Joseph and his staff have had time to make some evaluations on a great portion of the roster. This time of the year is one of the most important for coaches and staff to know where they are at both philosophy wise and personnel.
Tomorrow the Broncos players have a well earned day off, but the work doesn’t end for Joseph or his staff. The Broncos brass will meet tomorrow to discuss philosophy and personnel.
"“We’re going to have a personnel meeting tomorrow morning with [President of Football Operations/General Manager] John [Elway] and his staff to go through the roster and talk about help. We’re also going to figure out our next plan as far as moving forward as far as practice. Our vision as a staff is to have an off day tomorrow and kind of bring it back tight on Wednesday.” – Vance Joseph on what the plans for staff are on the day off (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
Certainly, Joseph and Elway have their hands full in figuring out a game-plan for the pass rushing department with both Shane Ray(surgery, hand) and Shaq Barrett(surgery, hip) being out until Week 2 or 3 of the regular season.
This may be the first true test of decision making for Joseph in his early career as a Head Coach. I believe he will do just fine.
Next: Jamaal Charles Will See Increased Reps Wednesday
Vance Joseph’s Presence:
Upon the hiring of Vance Joseph, his presence and knowledge of the players in the building have blown me away. He provides me with the thought that he is a true player’s coach. Resembling characteristics of Pete Carroll, Jim Harbaugh, and Mike Tomlin all in one.
He is honest in his analysis and responses to members of the media. His genuine nature in and of itself is that of a leader of men. When we look at Coaches we look for those who can lead a group into battle, and Joseph is that man.