NFL Notes: Broncos, Chiefs, Falcons, & Raiders

Broncos

• Jeff Legwold writes that the Broncos are prepared to franchise WR Demaryius Thomas, but would still like to work out a long-term contract at some point.
• According to Legwold, Denver has had the framework of a five-year contract on the table for Thomas at times over the last year.

Chiefs

Chiefs backup QB Chase Daniel says he’s confident that he’ll be back with the team next season, even though they could use cap space and releasing him would free up $3.8 million.

“I’m looking forward to this offseason program starting April 20, and we’ll go from there,” Daniels said, via the Kansas City Star.

Falcons

• D. Orlando Ledbetter offers his take  on who should “stay” or “go” in his latest article.
• Some of the notable players who should “go,” according to Ledbetter include: RB Jacquizz Rodgers, RB Steven Jackson, OT Gabe Carimi, DE Kroy Biermann, DL Tyson Jackson, and S Dezmen Southward.

Raiders

Earlier in the week, new Raiders HC Jack Del Rio mentioned that they still need to find out of veteran RB Maurice Jones-Drew can still play at a high level.

“That’s something we need to find out,” Del Rio told reporters on Thursday, via Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union. “The first thing would be that he keeps the weight where it needs to be so he can be explosive again.’’

“I loved the time we had together in Jacksonville,’’ Del Rio said. “He was one of the true warriors I had on the football field. He gave everything he had to the football team, and I expect the same kind of commitment from all of our players here in Oakland.’’