Denver makes progress on signing draft picks

The Denver Broncos made some progress Monday in getting their rookie class signed before the beginning of training camp Wednesday, although some key players remain unsigned.

Running back Brandon Miree, a seventh-round draft pick, agreed to a three-year deal according to his agent, Richard Katz. Cornerback Jeff Shoate, a fifth-round pick, agreed to a three-year deal according to his agent, David Caravantes, and quarterback Matt Mauck, a seventh-round pick, agreed to a three-year deal, according to a source.

Center Josh Sewell, a sixthround selection, was close to agreeing to a contract and his agent, Craig Domann, said he expected Sewell to sign today.

The Broncos drafted 10 players in April, all but one of whom remained unsigned before Monday. Wide receiver Triandos Luke, a sixth- round pick, signed a three-year contract in early June.

First-round pick D.J. Williams tops the players who haven't agreed to terms.

Williams' agent, Tony Fleming, said he has exchanged contract proposals with the Broncos and hopes to get something done soon.

"Not so much that there's any major hang-ups (in negotiations), we're just trying to set up some parameters," Fleming said. "I wouldn't say (I'm) worried (about a holdout). It's kind of just hour- to-hour."

Todd France, the agent for receiver Darius Watts, a second-round selection, said he expects a deal to be completed today.

Meanwhile, Jeff Griffin, the agent for running back Tatum Bell, also a second-round choice, said he hadn't spoken to the Broncos since Friday. Griffin said he didn't think negotiations were contentious and he thought Bell would be in camp on time.

"We've had good conversations before Friday, and like in any negotiations, there are some things we don't agree on," Griffin said. "I don't think it'll be a holdout. We want Tatum Bell to be in camp on time and I'm sure the Broncos feel the same way."

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