Dove Valley, CO. 44 catches, 612 yards, 8 TD’s. Pretty good stats for a wide receiver playing a full season in a college style, running oriented, option offense, right? Or in this case an NFL offense led by Tim Tebow where nobody, including the wide receivers, knew where the ball was heading. Those statistics I mentioned belong to Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker last year, who is about to begin his third season in the NFL. There is absolutely nothing not to like about his game, as Broncos fans better be ready for a breakout year from this budding star.
Four years ago, I recall flipping on the TV and it just happened to be an early Saturday morning game, Minnesota vs Indiana. I had no rooting interest whatsoever, and was probably just downing my first cup of coffee. I soon noticed that this wide receiver for the Golden Gophers was catching pass after pass, and looked like he was better than anyone else on the field. His name was Eric Decker, and he was a Junior at the time. That name went into my memory bank, and when the Broncos selected him in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft, I had a hunch Denver got a guy who would stick on their roster for years to come.
The third year for an NFL wide receiver tends to be the year that they “get it” and everything clicks. Well, Decker is heading into his third year and voila, Denver just happened to sign the Sheriff, Peyton Manning. During his time at the University of Minnesota, Eric caught 227 balls for 3,119 yards and 24 TD’s. Being so productive there, why did he last until the 3rd round? He wasn’t overly fast, and is not a huge guy either. But the thing he has shown in his 2 years in Denver is that he has very sure hands, and has sneaky speed. Decker also seems to have a great work ethic, and wants to do what it takes to get better.
This upcoming season is going to be one of the most anticipated in Denver Broncos history. That guy, #18, is kinda why don’t ya think? Peyton Manning will undoubtedly make everyone better, like he always has. Eric Decker is primed to be Peyton’s favorite target, and a huge year is on the horizon for this soon-to-be Pro Bowl wide receiver. It’s bold prediction time….in 2012, Decker will burst onto the NFL scene with 90 catches, 1150 yards, and 12 TD’s. #87 Decker jerseys will also finally outnumber #87 McCaffrey jerseys at Sports Authority Field….and for those of you who play Fantasy Football, I would try grabbing Decker (4th-6th round) as your #2 receiver. You won’t be sorry.
Denver Sports by J Simp
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