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Broncos fire GM Sundquist after 16 years with team
By PFW staff
March 13, 2008
The Broncos fired GM Ted Sundquist on Wednesday in the midst of an offseason retooling project. Denver has missed the playoffs the past two seasons, and Sundquist's dismissal had been rumored months ago. Still, Sundquist, who spent the past 16 years with the club, was shocked by the move, according to the Denver Post. Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan issued a brief statement Wednesday, saying it was time for the team to move forward. Shanahan called Sundquist into his office around 8 p.m. EDT Wednesday to tell him he was being let go, according to reports.
Sundquist, 45, worked as the team's general manager for the past six years and served as a college scout during the 10 years prior to his promotion.
The PFW spin
Although Sundquist's firing shakes up the Broncos' front-office hierarchy, its effect might not translate into much of a change in philosophy for the squad. According to most reports, Shanahan is the one who makes the personnel decisions in Denver and it has been that way for some time. The coach has been the de facto general manager, with Sundquist serving mostly as an advisor while sharing some of the blame for recent moves that have led to the team's struggles.
The Broncos went 7-9 last season and followed up the disappointing campaign with the resignation of defensive coordinator Jim Bates and the release of WR Javon Walker. Since he became general manager in 2002, Sundquist oversaw the trade that sent RB Clinton Portis to the Redskins for CB Champ Bailey and a No. 2 draft pick, along with numerous free-agent acquisitions, including S John Lynch and RB Travis Henry.
The timing of the breakup has been perceived as a signal that the relationship between Shanahan and Sundquist had turned poisonous, since major staff shuffles are usually executed immediately after the season ends or following the draft.
To fill the void left by Sundquist, members of the team's front office will take on increased roles. Jim Goodman, director of player personnel, and assistant general manager Jeff Goodman are expected to receive added responsibilities.
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