Denver Broncos' quarterback Kyle Orton, last year's starter for the team, is happy to have a vote of confidence from Coach Josh McDaniels.  Sports Illustrated reports that, "Right after pulling off the trade (for Brady Quinn), McDaniels called Orton and told him that while he was bringing in some better competition, he wasn't going to throw the job up for grabs like he did last year when Orton beat out Chris Sims."

Those are obviously just words, and could be quickly changed, but Orton having a year under is belt in McDaniels complicated offense is definitely an advantage.  He may, however, have to play this season without two incredible players in Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler.  Both were very productive last season, but are restricted free agents this offseason, and have yet to participate in any offseason meetings, workouts or running.  Both players seem to be doing everything in their power to find another team to play for next season.

Orton, on the other hand, has been an active participant in this season offseason program, solidifying his status as a leader, even though, he too, is a restricted free agent that has yet to sign the tender offered to him.  This has got to show a great deal of commitment to the rest of his teammates, and will further put him on track to be the starter.