This week the newest recruits to the Denver Broncos organization arrived at Dove Valley nervous and eager to display their talents. Their embarkation signaled the transition from collegiate student life to NFL professionalism. There is no bigger leap in sports than that from college football to the pros, and this week’s rookie camp is just a start in getting these young men acclimated to their new surroundings.
Broncos Rookies Head to Dove Valley
The early part of the week mainly consists of introductions and tours. Once the players get fitted for their gear and choose their numbers, it all becomes a little more real. The excitement begins to increase as the dream of putting on an NFL uniform gets closer. Finally, Paxton Lynch, Justin Simmons and the rest of this year’s rookies get suited up– just the jersey and a ball cap for now–and make their way from the locker room onto the Broncos practice field for the very first time.
Time to get to work!
Coaches run the young men through different drills, stressing footwork and fundamentals. For most of these novices, it is their first time back on a field since last fall. As the rust wears off, you can see a sense of ease and comfort begin to adorn the faces of these starstruck youngsters. That calmness is what this week is all about, getting these future stars accustomed to being a professional. They’ll be glad they had these few days because reality becomes more eye-opening when the veterans—who in this case are Super Bowl champions–join them in battle. Their adjustment will determine how successful they will be in this league. They need to find those experienced, quality leaders and lean on them, learn from them, and be better than them.
Main Photo:
