TheDailyBlitz.com

One of the big stories surrounding the Matt Cassel (and Mike Vrabel) trade to Kansas City for a 2nd-round pick is how it almost involved Broncos QB Jay Cutler and his reaction to the information.

"I'm upset. I mean I'm really shocked at this point," he said. "I could see why they want Cassel. I don't know if they think I can't run the system or I don't have the skills for it. I just don't get it. Or if they don't think they can sign me with my next contract. I just don't know what it is. I've heard I'm still on the trading block."

Selected 11th overall in the 2006 NFL draft, Cutler has 3 years remaining on his 6-year contract. Although the Broncos assert that they were contacted by other teams including the Bucs regarding Cutler's availability in a trade, Cutler's relationship with new 32-year-old head coach Josh McDaniels is getting off to a rocky start.

"Anything can be mended," he said. "I'll always play with the guys we've got. I love playing for those guys. Obviously, Josh and I's relationship has taken a few steps backward. I don't play for the coaches anyway, I play for teammates..."

Overall, the Broncos are doing the Patriots thing this off-season. Bringing in a lot of players - not big names - to compete for spots.

They have brought in safety Brian Dawkins to provide heart and soul to a defense that was lackluster last year. They have signed Jabar Gaffney, Lonie Paxton, J.J. Arrington, Correll Buckhalter, Darrell Reid, Reynaldo Hill, Andra Davis and counting...

"We don't want to trade Jay," said McDaniels. " We never did. He's our quarterback. We're excited about this season. And excited about what we're doing here in free agency to improve our team."

Cutler finished 3rd in the NFL in passing yards (4526) and 7th in passing TDs (25). However, he also finished with the 2nd-most INTs (18) to league-leader Brett Favre.