Brandon Stokley knew he had more in him.
Since his last stint with the Broncos, he spent time with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010 and New York Giants in 2011, playing in just two games last season before suffering an injury.
But the 14th-year veteran didn’t contemplate retirement.
“I wasn’t really ready to be done — I still feel like I can play,” he said. “For me, it was just all about trying to get that opportunity somewhere.”
The Broncos provided that opportunity, and it’s one Stokley won’t take for granted.
Not only does he get a chance to prove he still has it, but his return to the Broncos means a reunion with a former teammate — quarterback Peyton Manning.
“I didn’t ever think I would have another chance to play with him,” Stokley said. “When you’re there (in Indianapolis), I was there with him for four years. I don’t want to say you kind of take him for granted, but then you move on and you kind of realize what you had. You kind of always hope that you’ll get that chance again. For me, it’s been great. To me, I think he’s the best to ever play the position. So to have another chance to play with somebody like that is pretty special.”
Stokley and Manning were together in Indianapolis from 2003 to 2006 before the receiver headed to Denver in 2007.
Stokley said he doesn’t see much difference in the way Manning is delivering the ball now than when he was in Indianapolis — something that he believes will benefit everyone on the team, but Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas in particular.
“The last time I saw them, they were both rookies, young pups,” Stokley said. “Now you can definitely tell that they’ve both grown up and have taken on the leadership role. It is their receiver group, it’s their chance to do something special. They’re playing with a guy that can get them the ball. I’ve seen him help a lot of people’s careers. I think he can do that for both of those guys.”
Stokley said he is healthy and feels “100 percent.” Now he’s focused on being a Bronco again.
“It’s great,” he said. “I’m having a blast, just enjoying the moment. I’m glad to have a chance to play football again.”
-Gray Caldwell
Tags: Brandon Stokley
Stokley is a beast
He deffinatly should make the team even if he is a back up. Just my opinion!
So I’m skeptical of Bleacher Report, but I like reading this:
“The pre-draft buzz included the names of defensive tackles Jerel Worthy and Devon Still, yet as a senior, Wolfe out sacked and out tackled both Worthy and Still combined.
Wolfe plays instinctively as a very cerebral player which will be a welcomed addition. He is a swarming and productive talent that has a nose and knack for the ball.”
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1165917-denver-broncos-how-each-draft-pick-fits-into-the-broncos-plan-in-2012/page/2
As stunning and unexpected as Seau’s trafic death was, the reality was that there was nothing anybody could have done to prevent it. My wife’s father commited suicide so I speak from “been there, done that”. The three “C”s of children of alhoholics are 1) Didn’t cause it 2) Can’t cure it 3) Can’t change it. It is, sadly, no different for the family andf friends of someone who commits suicide. The hardest thing to realize is that you’ll never know why and you’ll never be able to change the events that led to such a tragic and sad act of total desperation.
My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends and wish them the peace that only time will bring to such a sad day.
oldsouth the 3 c’s are very true for both. I have known a few who have commited suicide and have a recovering alcoholic father. Always gotta remember those 3 things. I always thought it but eventually reality woke me up. As harsh as this may be its because of them. Their choices and whats going on in their life.
Its very tragic to see him go. Seau was very loved in all of football and very popular among fans. He was a great player. RIP Seau.
I disagree with 2 out of 3 of your ‘C’s. There are cures for both the children as well as the alcoholics. The change can be real. It is true that if someone refuses help – there is none. I could give names and places from the most severe cases but I don’t have time. It is sad. I wouldn’t want to place blame – family especially is prone to guilt – shouldn’t go there at all…but there are those that can and do help. It happens all the time.
Manning to Stokley (even if he is a backup) which he may not be,should be good for at least 40-50 receptions this year!
Great post Gray!!!!
Stokley was a huge addition to our team,even if it’s just to catch a few passes and help the young WRs to learn Manning’s Offense,here’s a great big”MILE HIGH SALUTE” to the slot machine!!!!!!!!
B.F.E.
I’ve quit drinking 3 times in my life,once for 6 years,and I use to get drunk like 4-5 times a week,I know some people need help to quit,but I always suffered it out myself…nothing to kill myself for!
R.I.P Junior Seau!
Brandon, I am extremely happy to have you back on the team!
I love how they ask him about the play book in the interview and he’s like… Whoa! I can’t talk about that! Lol! I have always loved this guy!
I allways felt that Jr Seau was and outstanding representation of what a football player should be, I allways wanted him to be a Bronco instead of a Bolt….To bad one of the brightest candles just went out…..WE ARE ALL DEMINISHED WITHOUT YOU JR. you can not be replaced..my prayers are with your whole family..
I’m “Stoked” to have this cat back on the squad! A true professional. Caldwell and Hill are our oldest WR’s on the roster at only 27, so having a guy who’s been there, done that is gonna be great for our young ones! Btw, I’d say Willis is the oldest at 28, but he won’t make the team this year…
I was excited to hear that Stokley had signed with the Broncos……..gives Peyton another and familar weapon.. always thought the Colts were wrong for allowing him to go to free agency after they won the Super Bowl…….just another on a long list of mistakes!