Broncos Rookies Exhausted By High Altitude During Camp

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4)- Rookie camp is in full swing at Dove Valley, the Denver Broncos Headquarters and the players are getting a surprise when it comes to working out in high altitude.

Players typically spend a little bit of time on the field and a whole lot of time in meetings and learning the playbook.

Rookie Center Matt Paradise said he reads the playbook until he falls asleep at the hotel.

There is a lot to learn, the jump to the NFL is a big adjustment for the guys but coming to play for the Broncos is a little different than other teams.

That's because those who have never played in high altitude are learning that being in shape is one thing but being in shape to play one mile above sea level is a whole other thing.

"I'm tired as hell. Today I was running around a lot and I was gasping for air. You know, but that's good I'm going through this now because by the time camp comes around I'll be adapted to it and that's an advantage for us during the season that we're going to be more conditioned than everybody else," said Rookie Cornerback Bradley Roby.

"Oh, yeah, you can tell in practice, especially individual, we're going non-stop and when you're going non-stop at this altitude it's no joke, it gets to you. You start getting winded pretty quick," said Rookie Offensive Lineman Michael Schofield.