Sun sets on Ted Sundquist
A few years ago, the Broncos elevated Ted Sundquist’s status within the organization, in a move to de-lever Mike Shanahan’s control on the organization. Shanahan, like many other coaches in the late 90s and early part of this decade, was able to become the de factor GM in addition to head coach. And like most of those coaches, it eventually became apparent that it’s probably not the ideal situation. Coaching an NFL team is a full-time job and then some. Successfully managing a team’s personnel needs including contract terms, free agency and draft preparation is, also, a full-time job many times over.
Enter Sundquist. Sundquist was the long-time director of player personnel and effectively answered to Shanahan. But in 2002, ownership promoted Sundquist to the role of General Manager which SUPPOSED to give him more power and autonomy.
Yet, those close to the Denver situation never really believed Shanahan lost ultimate say. Which is why today’s firing of Sundquist is an odd one. Yes, the Broncos haven’t been as competitive in the 2000s as they were in Shanahan’s early years. But, if Shanny never really lost control of personnel decisions, why must Sundquist go? Was it REALLY his fault?
At some point, Shanahan is going to run out of other people to blame for the Broncos recent return to mediocrity. But, at least for another season, it appears he’s found a scapegoat.
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