Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
The future of the Denver Broncos is Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall. Period.
Denver is coming off a 7-9 season, just its second losing season in 13 years under Mike Shanahan. The team is in a time of transition. The defense is shaky. The immediate future may not be bright. But in Cutler and Marshall, Denver has real hope down the line. Both are entering their third seasons. Both have a chance to be among the best quarterbacks and receivers, respectively, in the NFL soon.
But there are major question marks surrounding both players in light of the news that Cutler is suffering from Type 1 diabetes, the most serious form of the disease. Cutler will rely on insulin the rest of his life.
Marshall has nerve damage in his right forearm as a result of a fall through a glass entertainment center while horse playing with family members in March.
Yes, the future of the Denver Broncos is uncertain, indeed.
The Broncos are confident, through treatment, Cutler will be able to excel on the field. Other professional athletes have done fine while managing the same form of diabetes. Still, Cutler, who turned 25 this week, will have to adjust to his new life.
There is also concern about Marshall. The team won't know for sure until shortly before training camp if Marshall will have recovered. The team thinks and hopes he'll be fine, but when there is nerve damage, there are no guarantees.
It looks like Cutler and Marshall will be fine and will be able to continue their promising careers. But there are question marks attached to both players. And, thus, the future of the Denver Broncos.
