Elway's Thursday Phone Call To Ramirez: 'One Of The Hardest'
DENVER (CBS4) - Many Broncos remember one thing about Manny Ramirez.
A snap that went too high, flying over Peyton Manning's head on the first play from scrimmage of Super Bowl XLVIII.
But Ramirez has been so much more than that throughout his time in Denver. He has been a positive force on the offensive line for years, filling when needed and starting a large amount of games, too.
That's why letting the veteran offensive lineman as part of Thursday's big Round 1 draft-day deal wasn't an easy move for Broncos executive John Elway.
"He's been a tremendous football player for us. That was one of the hardest phone calls that I've ever had to make," Elway said in a press conference Thursday night.
Ramirez was sent to Detroit along with the Broncos No. 28 pick and other draft picks in a deal that allowed the Broncos to take the Lions' first round pick and draft Shane Ray.
Ramirez played with the Lions for his first four seasons in the NFL.
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Elway said he knew before the draft started that he might wind up dealing Ramirez.
"I will say this: He is going to a home (where) they really wanted Manny. It's where Manny started. We've had conversations on and off the last couple weeks, and they centered around Manny. They were very interested in Manny. He's going to a good home where he is very much wanted," Elway said.
Elway also praised Ramirez for the work he's done in the community.