How do you like Michael Pittman now?

When Michael Pittman signed with the Broncos last week, I wonder if he knew then what we know now: That Denver planned on releasing starting running back Travis Henry.

That's the latest out of Denver, where Pittman could shoot to the top of the depth chart after the Broncos decided to part ways with Henry today, less than a year after his well-publicized battle with the NFL over a disputed failed drug test.

Pittman got no love with the Bucs after he made it clear at the outset of free agency he would attempt to find work elsewhere in part because he was dissatisfied with his role in Tampa Bay. He looked to be set to be a backup in Denver when he inked his deal last week, but this move changes everything.

All Pittman will have to do now is beat out Selvin Young and former USF star Andre Hall and he'll be at the top of the depth chart.  Pittman's no All-Pro, but if he can assimilate to the Broncos' unique blocking schemes, perhaps he can have a great deal of success in Denver like so many backs over the years.

And don't forget: the Bucs play at Denver on Oct. 5.

Comments

[tampa will]

good riddance. dude's a loser. maybe he commit crimes and fumble balls in denver now.

[Tom]

I've always felt that Pit is very underrated. He does so many things well. He's a devastating blocker, an excellent receiver that runs great routes and likes contact. However, he is indecisive when running with ball. Plus, he's a very good team player.

We'll miss him here in Tampa. And I'll miss seeing his wife at the games!

[Tom]

The dude's a loser? HMMM... He is a multimillionaire, has a super bowl ring in which he was a huge contributor, could be starting for the Broncos, has an extremely hot wife and could squash your puny head like a grape with his biceps. Who's the loser Tampa Will?

[Valrico Rick]

I was very unhappy with Pittman’s off the field issues when he first came to Tampa, but he seemed to pull himself together. He was a major contributor for the Bucs and gave a solid performance in the Super Bowl. For that I am respectful and grateful. Overall I never thought he was that good of a runner. He generally would go down easy, and whenever he was in the open field all the defender had to do was stand and wait and Pittman would put on a couple of moves and then run right into his waiting arms. He made some big plays catching the ball out of the backfield, usually on wheel routes, which I just love to call in Madden ’08, but his overall value was his work ethic and willingness to contribute, and when he stopped being willing to be a role player it was time for him to move on. Welcome back Mr. Dunn, can’t wait to see what you can do!

[Brandon]

Pittman was the quintesential team player. He just wanted to get out on the field and now that he is with the Broncos, after all these years he may finally get a chance to star (albeit a short chance). with good speed, good size, great hands and fantastic route running, he is a complete back. In Denver's blocking schemes he may make his first Pro Bowl.

[Skylar]

Good for him; good for the Bucs. Looks like a win-win situation for all parties. He had his best years here.

[Duane]

Although I appreciated all that Michael gave to the Bucs, I'm not sure his running style fits the Broncos blocking schemes which calls for the back to make "one" cut and then run downhill.

[DR]

Stephen, the Broncos apparently cut ties with Henry over his drug and legal problems, do you think the Bucs will pick him up by next week?
(Before you guys start crying like little babies, I am being sarcastic.)

[Tuck]

Most people who attempt vehicular homicide on 3 victims are locked up for years. Pittman is in the NFL, can afford a great lawyer, and got off easy. Way to take advantage of a break Pittman! Maybe someday he'll figure out how not to trip over his own feet in the open field.

TRAVIS HENRY MAY SHOW UP...SERIOUSLY.

[STIXX]

That was me.

[Montana Tom]

After Pitt stayed "clean" with his personal issues in Tampa I was a big fan. I wish him the best and will root for him whenever he isn't playing the BUCS. I think he does an outstanding job and always seemed to me to give everything to help the team.

[JR]

i still like pittman now, holder stop fishing for hateful comments. it just business that the bucs and pittman parted ways, there were no hard feelings. his contract was up and our backfield got crowded. pittman played his eyeballs out for us and was an asset to this team, i wish him luck in denver.

[aaron]

is mike bell still on the Broncos? where is he on the depth chart?

[shane]

the man attempts triple homicide with a vehicle and all of you get over it but another man "allegedly" rapes a girl 8 years ago probably at some college party and we're calling for his head. There is something wrong with us buccaneer fans