Christmas in July

After 136 days, the NFL lockout is over. What a excruciating and mind-numbing experience that whole ordeal was. At the end of the day, the NFL was able to get a 10 year labor deal that looks like a win-win for each side. They were also able to avoid missing any preseason or regular season games, except for the Hall of Fame Game. Thank God the NFL is back and now we head into what will be a wild week in the NFL. Rookie draft picks, undrafted rookies, and free agents all need to be signed. Trades can take place, and teams start reporting for training camp in a matter of days. It is going to be fun, and I look forward to chronicling all the major moves the Broncos make as we head into the 2011 season. With that said and the lockout put to bed, here is my annual "Broncos Things to Look For" Training Camp Preview:

What needs to the Broncos have now that free agency will start?

Denver addressed their linebacker and secondary in the draft, but they still need help on the defensive line. The Broncos need to add at least two more defensive tackles, and they could start by resigning Marcus Thomas and/or Justin Bannan. I don't expect Denver to go after a big name DT, but look for them to get a few mid-level rotational guys. After DL, the Broncos must address the cornerback position. After seeing the disturbing details in the Perrish Cox case, I am concerned about their depth at corner. A guy like Richard Marshall from Carolina looks like a nice fit. On offense the Broncos should add a running back to compliment Knowshon Moreno. A lot of people have Deangelo Williams going to Denver, but I don't see them adding him for a huge price. I wouldn't mind seeing Denver go after a bigger back or a bruiser like Marion Barber, especially at a cheaper price than Williams.

What happens with Kyle Orton?

If there was no lockout, then Orton would have been gone before the NFL Draft in April. I've said it before, and I will say it again: It is time to start the Tim Tebow Era. That means that Denver can't hold onto Orton as a backup at his salary. I think Denver will hold onto Orton until they get a good deal. A good deal would be a 3rd round pick and possibly a player as well. I think Orton gets dealt, but not until the middle or end of training camp.

Who else could be cut or traded?

It was reported that Correll Buckhalter might be one of the first cuts the Broncos make. Also, Renaldo Hill could get the ax as well. It looks like Brian Dawkins will stay, but at a reduced price. Perrish Cox could be let go after the details in his rape case were released last week.

Any other moves to our defense?

The Broncos should add a DT and DE in free agency. Also, a cornerback should definitely be on the priority list, but remember Elvis Dumervil is coming back from injury. Just by adding Doom back, the Broncos defense should be better than last year. Plus, if Denver gets anything from 1st round pick Von Miller, then the Broncos defense could be a lot better in 2011.

Any other moves on offense?

Again RB will be a priority, but I hope Denver doesn't overspend on that position. I think the Broncos will take a look at some TEs that get released and cut by other teams. I think WR and the OL are pretty much set for now.

Are we behind other teams because we have a new head coach and there was a lockout for 136 days of the offseason?

I don't think the Broncos are totally screwed by not having a normal offseason and having a new HC. I'm sure it would have helped to have John Fox around his new team, but he is a solid NFL head coach, and I expect Fox to adjust and adapt very well with this situation. Remember, the Broncos are coming off a 4-12 season, and there are still plenty of talent deficiencies on the roster, but Fox is the real deal, and I think he will get the Broncos ready to go in time for the season opener at home vs. Oakland.

Does Tim Tebow win the QB job?

My heart says yes, and my mind is starting to say yes. I really hope Tebow is given the chance to win this job, and I hope he takes advantage of it. I can see how Kyle Orton could still be on the team, and the coaching staff naming him the starter for Week 1, but the right move is to give Tebow the job. After learning the lockout is over, Tebow tweeted "Game On" on his Twitter account. You obviously know he is ready to go, and I think the Broncos pull the trigger with him and not Orton.