The Denver Broncos secondary has been the top passing defense the last two seasons, despite that, they continue to face skepticism in the media.
The Denver Broncos secondary has been crowned the top passing defense over the last two seasons. Despite the achievement, they still face skepticism from members of the media.
In the NFL there are many critics who share their ‘bold’ takes, but it is blatantly disrespectful to attempt to discredit the No Fly Zone. Following Day One of Training Camp yesterday, Bradley Roby, Aqib Talib, and TJ Ward all spoke to the media.
Bradley Roby
Roby met with the media yesterday and talked about what it’s like playing alongside Chris Harris Jr. and Aqib Talib.
"“It’s great playing with those guys because they’re All-Pros, the best of the best. To play with them, to compare myself to them, and to compete with them is really the best situation for me.” – Bradley Roby on playing alongside CHJR and Talib (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
Bradley Roby has been a tremendous player for Denver and many forget he could start for 31 other NFL teams. What makes the Broncos secondary stand out is that they have depth at every position.
Roby hides behind the spotlight of the Broncos elite cornerbacks, but he is optimistic that they could be a top three trio.
"“I think we could be a top three. I don’t know why they act like there’ only two corners out there now. I can see back in the day with two corners but now there are three corners a lot of the time, so they need to change that conversation. We’re already the top trio so there’s no debate on that” – Bradley Roby on being a contributor to the best CB duo (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
For Roby it means that he will continue to play with a chip on his shoulder. He acknowledged playing alongside two future Hall of Famers in his mind in Talib and Harris Jr. makes him better.
Aqib Talib
Entering his 10th season, Aqib Talib feels more optimistic about Training Camp this year over last year. Last year Talib said he felt the team was lackadaisical.
"It’s regular. Last year it wasn’t regular. We came back lackadaisical. This year, it’s regular. It’s that anticipating the first game of the year. Like you said, there are a lot of expectations of ourselves. A lot of guys are hungry. That’s what every team in the league is right now, except for the Super Bowl Champions. Well, maybe the Super Bowl Champions are. It’s regular to us, last year that wasn’t regular. We’re getting back to where we want to be.” – Aqib Talib on Training Camp last year compared to this year (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
Talib hasn’t been too focused on the skepticism of members in the media. “All we can do is go out and play. People are entitled to their own opinions, right? We have our opinions; they have their own opinions. I guess we’ll see” Talib said.
The noise from critics doesn’t both Talib too much, but what I do know is that he is hungry to get back to the Super Bowl. He brings to the table a leadership style that demands the best from those around him.
Often outspoken, Talib walks the walk and has been elite for the Broncos since signing in 2014.
I’m excited to see what Talib will do this season.
TJ Ward
Broncos safety TJ Ward enters training camp with a refreshed body and mind. He doesn’t care for the media’s skepticism, but he said that it’s only fuel to the fire.
Like most Broncos players this year, Ward also indicated the tempo at practice in camp is better than last years. “I definitely feel we came out with a better spark this year for sure. You can definitely tell that this team is on a mission” Ward said.
Next: Broncos Training Camp: Day One Observations
Approaching yet another season, Ward believes he can continue to get better as long as he is striving to grow.
"If I’m playing this game, I’m playing to be the best. If I’m not playing, then it’s time to retire. i’m always looking to be the best in my field and play to the best of my ability while I’m still able to perform. Until then, i’m striving.” – TJ Ward on how he matches up against other safeties (Via Denver Broncos PR)"
At 30 years old, Ward doesn’t feel like he is slowing down. “I feel like I’m at my peak right now. I’m 30 years old, I feel the best shape of my life. I’m as smart as I’ve ever been. I feel great” said Ward.
What are your thoughts Broncos Country?
Quotes obtained by Denver Broncos PR.