Broncos linebacker Elvis Dumervil has been a dominant force for Denver’s defense all season long, racking up 14 sacks and forcing opposing offenses to double team him on most downs. Usually that would lead to a bit of bravado and chest thumping, as most players in the NFL take pride in their own abilities, but that’s not the case here.

Dumervil talked extensively about the role that late Chiefs (and Hall of Fame) LB Derrick Thomas played in pushing him towards the success he is enjoying today, giving credit to Thomas for setting the stage for young pass rushers to excel in this league (H/T to Arrowhead Pride)

“I thought he was kind of so-called undersized, playing the position that he was playing as a rusher at the time. He was very explosive. He made big plays. He changed the game, getting off, the forced fumbles, the what — seven sacks in one game? He was a trend setter and he will always be remembered.”

– Denver linebacker Elvis Dumervil

Headed into what will likely be an emotionally charged contest in Kansas City next week, with the Chiefs set to retire Thomas’ number 58 jersey permanently at half time, Dumervil’s comments are a refreshing change from the barbed words of contempt usually tossed back and forth before a game between bitter rivals. Paying respect for a player like Thomas who truly changed the way linebackers are looked at in the NFL shows a maturity in Dumervil that will make him a valuable commodity in the off-season if the Broncos fail to reach an extension with him or decide to trade him for picks after using their franchise tag on him.

Other posts you may enjoy:

1. End drawing near for Thomas in New England?
2. Thomas clears the air on being late to practice
3. Former Viking Thomas still fighting for his life
4. Discussion: Weis to lead KC offense next year?
5. Weis done at Notre Dame; on his way to the NFL?