AFC West Notes: Broncos, Chargers, Raiders

Broncos

Broncos DE Shane Ray said he is not focusing on his expiring contract with the team and is still committed to Denver.

“It’s a business; I can’t blame John,” said Ray, via Ryan O’Halloran. “I can’t focus on that. That’s not something I’m going to allow to mess up my focus or commitment to the team. I’m going to play as hard as I can and do what I was brought here to do.”

Broncos HC Vance Joseph said Ray “controls his own destiny” since he is a pass rusher and could potentially earn more than the $9.32 million he would earn on the fifth-year option if he plays well.

“He’s a pass rusher; he controls his own destiny,” said Joseph. “If he has a great year, he can make a lot more than the option. That’s my message to him. I’m proud of how Shane has handled himself.”

• Ian Rapoport reports that the Broncos attempted to trade for Tyrod Taylor before they signed QB Case Keenum in free agency.
• Broncos C Matt Paradis said Wednesday that he and the team have not begun negotiations on a contract extension, but he definitely would like to and is hoping to stay in Denver long-term. (Nicki Jhabvala)

Chargers

• According to Neil Stratton, Chargers senior executive Randy Mueller has mutually parted ways with the team.
• Chargers GM Tom Telesco didn’t rule out the possibility of bringing back TE Antonio Gates following the loss of Hunter Henry. (NFLTR)

Raiders

Raiders first-round OT Kolton Miller said he is “happy to compete” for a starting spot and is ready to line up at wherever he is needed.

“I’m happy to compete wherever they put me. Of course, having the last games at left (tackle), I feel a little bit more comfortable, but wherever they plug me in at, I’m ready to compete,” said Miller, via Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.

Raiders HC Jon Gruden believes Miller is a prototype left tackle, while third-round OT Brandon Parker will start on the right side.

“We like (Miller) at left tackle,” Gruden said. “We think he’s a prototype left tackle. He can bend, he’s got the length that you’re looking for and he’s a sharp kid. He’s still young, though. And then Brandon Parker, at the beginning, we’ll start on the right side. That doesn’t mean that’s where they’re going to end up, though.”

Raiders DE Bruce Irvin said that he has not spoken to DE Khalil Mack this offseason.

“No, I haven’t talked to my man,” Irvin said, via Gutierrez. “I miss him, though. That situation, I’ll never speak on another man’s situation. That’s him. I wish him nothing but the best but I have to get these guys who are here ready. Arden Key, Maurice Hurst, P.J. (Hall), those guys. Those guys are going to be important for us. Khalil’s situation will take care of itself, but for me, it’s my job to get these guys ready for the Los Angeles Rams.”