Webster, Thomas Get First Crack At First-String

Middle linebacker Nate Webster and defensive tackle Marcus Thomas were mild surprises as the Denver Broncos released their first depth chart of training camp on Monday. "We have to start somewhere," coach Mike Shanahan said about Webster getting the nod over free agent Niko Koutouvides. "Nate earned the chance to start just by what he's done here in these first eight days." During goal line drills in the morning session, Webster beat his blocker several times to stop running backs dead in their tracks and keep them out of the end zone. Webster, who played strongside linebacker a year ago while the Broncos made an unsuccessful attempt at making D.J. Williams their middle linebacker, made an impression for his work ethic during the offseason training sessions. Naming Webster to the first unit was a bit surprising considering... [read full story]