NFL Notes: Broncos, Russell Okung, Buccaneers, & Seahawks

Broncos

Broncos LT Russell Okung, who elected to represent himself as a free agent, told reporters on Thursday that he believes he got the best deal from the best team.

“Yes, the best deal in the best place,’’ Okung said, via ESPN.com. “…I would definitely say that it was a decision I made on my own. I was fully aware of what was going to happen and especially the ramifications that I would kind of run into. A lot of it is perception from you guys, as well as a lot of click-bait assumptions. I think for me, I got the best deal I can. I’m so happy to be here and very grateful that the front office would believe in me enough as well as give me the opportunity.’’

Many criticized Okung’s deal after he got very little guaranteed money and a contract that is essentially just a one-year, $5 million deal with a four-year team option. However, Okung believes it’s a strong deal overall.

“I would say if I listened to the media, I wouldn’t be where I am today,’’ Okung said. “I definitely can’t really take into account a lot of publications that don’t necessarily look to understand all of the facts. I think if anybody wants to ask me a question or understand it better, understand the facts first. Real facts — not assumptions. All that information is available to people and for people to see.’’

Buccaneers

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a letter to the Buccaneers that the Tampa Bay region “will be in excellent position to contend for Super Bowls.”

“It is clear the Tampa Bay region will be in excellent position to contend for Super Bowls in the years to come,” Goodell said, via the Tampa Bay Times. “Thank you for your leadership and many contributions to the success of the league. Our office and the Super Bowl Advisory Committee will continue to support your efforts.”

“While the vote wasn’t in your favor this time,” Goodell continued, “I want to assure you — and the entire Tampa Bay community — that the bid was highly impressive to everyone at the meeting and had significant support from other owners. The result was in no way a reflection of your club or city’s leadership and vision.”

Tampa Bay was in contention to host one of the three Super Bowls that were recently awarded to Atlanta, Miami and Los Angeles.

Seahawks

The Seahawks had first-round OL Germain Ifedi working at right guard at Thursday’s OTA practice.

“He’s been really impressive and really sharp,” HC Pete Carroll said of Ifedi, via Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times. “Thrilled to see he’s picking stuff up so well and it makes sense to him and he communicates well and he’s a monster of a guy at the right guard spot. So he’s off to a good start.”