Jason Elam to visit Atlanta

[HMFFL]

After a series of contract proposals were exchanged this week, the Broncos and kicker Jason Elam have decided to at least temporarily part ways

Elam will visit the Atlanta Falcons next week. There's a good chance Elam will know Thursday night where he will be employed in 2008.

"I am going to be taking a trip to Atlanta," Elam said.

Although the Broncos and Elam have been unable to close a $1 million-plus gap in guaranteed money for the 2008 season, talks have been amicable. The Broncos want Elam back but they need money for other possible moves and the upcoming draft.

Elam understands.

If the Broncos don't budge, the Falcons would be Elam's next choice because he grew up in the Atlanta suburbs. Other teams have also expressed serious interest in Elam.

Elam has been the Broncos' kicker since 1993. His 395 career field goals rank fifth on the NFL's all-time list and his 1,786 points are sixth. He has previously stated a goal of 2,000 career points, which would require at least two more seasons.

So who would kick for the Broncos if Elam leaves? Matt Prater handled kickoffs in the final two games, but the Broncos will bring in competition.

The pickings, however, may be slim. Olindo Mare, 35, is the most recognizable remaining free agent and there doesn't appear to be another Mason Crosby in this year's draft, although the Broncos could use a late-round pick on the likes of Wisconsin's Taylor Mehloff, Louisville's Art Carmody or St. Xavier's Shane Longest.

Elam is thankful to be in this position. He was with a Holy Land tour group in Jerusalem last week when, a mile away, an Arab terrorist murdered eight students at a school.

"We could hear the pop," Elam said. "It frightens you a little bit, but every single time I've been over there, something has happened. Peace just doesn't exist there."

AJC

[KillaCro$$over]

this sucks who the hell will be kicking our
field goals next season???