As the Denver Broncos approach training camp, one of their greatest assets remains on an expiring contract.
John Elway, the general manager and executive vice president, is still working on a new deal but told The Associated Press this week that he will hammer something out before Week 1.
"We're continuing to work at it," Elway said, via ESPN.com. "I don't see any problems with that. I look forward to being here with the Broncos for a long time."
He added: "I don't think there will be any doubt" a deal gets done before the season opener.
This is a strange situation because it's so easy to get placed on the backburner. Elway had a grind of an offseason, not only adding a new head coach but by trying to rebuild the team's woebegone offensive line.
According to The AP, the team first started approaching the NFL legend with extension proposals in October.
On one hand, Elway probably isn't going anywhere. He is synonymous with the Broncos and is just a season removed from the franchise's latest Super Bowl victory. On the other, he is an incredible asset for the franchise -- a lure for high-profile free agents capable of getting better players below the market value. The Broncos should be eager to meet whatever expectations he has in a new deal.
There are few game-changing executives in the NFL like Elway, who carries not only the ability to deftly handle a front office, but also the swagger of a Hall of Fame quarterback capable of going above and beyond your typical front office manager.
