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Broncos Lose Captain LynchBy CFI Staff  
John Lynch, the 9-time pro bowler, hasn’t decided to entirely call it quits just yet, but one thing is certain—he won’t be in a Bronco uniform come the start of the 2008 season. Unsatisfied with his role Lynch felt it best to just part ways. He wasn’t being utilized in many of the Broncos’ defensive schemes that he could be a factor in. Lynch has been replaced in nickel packages at training camp so far which meant a huge blow to his playing time. Lynch, who will turn 37 on Sept. 25, asked for his release from head coach Mike Shanahan. Of course it was granted.
The Scoop on Lynch While Lynch was a very formidable leader on the field and in the locker room, his actual play shouldn’t be missed too much. He’s had a very productive career but has slowed in recent years. Nonetheless, he made the Pro Bowl all four years he was with the Broncos. He’s always been a popular player known for his ability to tackle in the open field a lay some punishing blows. Lynch considered retirement after the 2007 season due to injuries and other salary factors. He decided to come back but things never really seemed right. It only got worse as his role was diminished during camp. "It's been a real tough last 48 hours coming to this decision in my heart," Lynch told reporters on Thursday while leaving the Broncos' training camp at Englewood, Colo. "I'm going to explore all my options. (Coach) Mike (Shanahan) has allowed me to do that. What are those options? Those options are to continue playing someplace else. I still have a great passion for the game (and) I feel like I'm in great shape." It’ll now come down to whether a team wants to give up a full-time spot in their defense to make room for Lynch. He’s an aging, yet still valuable, safety with unparalleled leadership (at least for most teams’ defenses). At this point, a lot of teams already have their defenses in place, so it’ll be interesting to see what comes of this. It’s hard not to wish the best for one of the game’s best safeties. It’s been a fun ride watching him throw his shoulder into receivers and running backs. By the Numbers 490 tackeles photo by: Hector Acevedo |
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