Broncos' first-round pick agrees to deal

ENGLEWOOD - The Denver Broncos agreed to contract terms with first- round draft pick D.J. Williams late Tuesday, but Williams' agent said the linebacker will miss the first practice of training camp because he'll be traveling to Denver.

Second-round pick Tatum Bell remains unsigned and could also miss this morning's practice session.

Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist said Williams, who played college football at Miami, had agreed to a sixyear deal that has a voidable sixth year.

Williams' agent, Tony Fleming, said his client was in Miami and his flight to Denver wouldn't arrive until 10 a.m. today -- 90 minutes after the first practice begins. Williams is expected to take part in the afternoon practice.

"That's the plan," Fleming said.

The Broncos continued negotiations with Bell, a running back from Oklahoma State, without reaching agreement on a contract.

Sundquist said the talks would resume early today and that he did not think Bell would miss practice.

"His agents fully understand the importance of getting into camp and getting him started," Sundquist said.

Jeff Griffin, Bell's agent, was hopeful Bell would be signed before this morning's practice.

"I hope he's there," Griffin said. "But I don't know what the chances are until we start talking in the morning."

Williams and Bell were the final two unsigned draft picks for the Broncos.

Early Tuesday, the Broncos announced the signings of seven of their 10 draft picks. Receiver Triandos Luke, a sixth-round pick, signed in June.

Weighty issues

Many players who reported to camp Tuesday underwent a body transformation in the offseason.

Mike Anderson, vying for the starting tailback job, said he weighed 227 pounds, down from last year's playing weight of between 232 and 235.

Tight end Byron Chamberlain said he is at 245 pounds, three pounds under his target weight.

Dwayne Carswell, making the transition from tight end to tackle, said he's up to 290 pounds.

Defensive end Trevor Pryce said he weighs 290 pounds, six more than last season, and that he had gotten stronger in the offseason.

Jackson, two others cut

The Broncos released Jarious Jackson, who was attempting to make a transition from quarterback to safety, cornerback Reggie Stephens and wide receiver MarTay Jenkins.

Odds and ends

Defensive coordinator Larry Coyer said Donnie Spragan will enter training camp as the starting weakside linebacker ahead of Williams. Williams was demoted during the last practice of the June minicamp.... Coach Mike Shanahan said he didn't anticipate any player missing the morning practice because of a lingering injury. Defensive end Raylee Johnson, who battled a foot injury much of the offseason, said he feels good and will be at practice today.

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