New York Post writer Bart Hubbuch didn’t mince words when describing Broncos owner Pat Bowlen’s appearance at the owners meetings.  Here is Hubbuch’s Sunday night tweet:

This isn’t the first report or suggestion concerning Bowlen’s rumored health problems.  The Broncos have denied for months Bowlen is ill.   The team has previously said Bowlen’s reduced public role should not be taken as an indication something is wrong.

Broncos schedule another private workout?

National Football Post reports the Broncos have scheduled a private workout with Temple safety Jaiquawn Jarrett.

Jarrett already has workouts planned with both New York teams and St. Louis.  Denver and New England are rumored to also be on that list.

Jarrett was a three-year starter at Temple and played in January’s Senior Bowl.  Draft analysts project Jarrett going in the third to fifth round.

For more information on Jarrett, Aerys Sports’ Philly Sports Muse has two stories on the safety.  Read those here and here.

Denver’s heavy hitters have joined top team personnel from around the league in New Orleans for the annual owners meetings, and there’s a dark cloud hanging overhead; this is day 10 of the NFL Lockout.

The Broncos’ contingent not only includes owner Pat Bowlen, but team president Joe Ellis, general manager Brian Xanders, coach John Fox, and John Elway. 

Commissioner Roger Goodell, the recent and ongoing subject of harsh criticism from players, is taking a break from the PR battle to meet with owners, general managers, and coaches in attendance.  Given labor uncertainty and litigation, expect some changes at this year’s conference.

Two announcements usually made at the owners meetings won’t be revealed this year.  The league’s 2011 preseason schedule and Week 1 schedule will not be released.  There is currently no timetable when that may happen – a sensible decision since we’re unsure there will even be a season.  Unlike years past, don’t expect any announcement today on compensatory draft picks.  That will also be unveiled at a later time.

Later today, NFL general counsel Jeff Pash will address the media.  We’ll also hear from the competition committee about proposed rule changes.  The two possible considerations generating the most buzz:

• To reduce kickoff return injuries, the committee suggests moving the kickoff line from the 30 to the 35-yard line.  This would also impact where players line up on the field for kickoffs.  A touchback would now place the ball on the 25-yard line – not the 20.
• The committee recommends a two-pronged change to instant replay.  The third challenge would be eliminated and the onus to review a scoring play would be up to the official and not the coach.

The competition committee will also discuss changes to player fines and a clearer definition of defenseless players.

The owners meetings conclude tomorrow.

Kickoffs, like this one at Soldier Field, may move if a proposed rule change happens. (Courtesy: Joon Han)