Crickets.
The silence articulated the change on the Broncos' defensive line over the past year. Months passed during the season with no contract talks with defensive tackle Terrance Knighton. Knighton wanted to return, but not at a steep bargain. Days passed after the season, Knighton growing impatient with the Broncos' unwillingness to change their stance. Money wasn't the issue. With new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips in place, the Broncos were ready to move in a different direction.
With $2.5 million in guaranteed money, the Broncos added free agents Vance Walker and Antonio Smith, $450,000 less than Washington guaranteed Knighton, affectionately known as "Pot Roast.