FOOTBALL: Diaz-Infante says Broncos could challenge Chargers

Former Denver Broncos player and current broadcaster David Diaz-Infante said the team could challenge the San Diego Chargers for the AFC West title in 2007.

“I think they’ve got a good chance to win the West,” Diaz-Infante said Monday after finishing his round at the Gary Morris Celebrity Invitational golf tournament at the Eisenhower Golf Club at the Air Force Academy.

Morris is a singer and the tournament was part of three-day fundraiser for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). The organization provides peer support, comfort, information and resources for those who lost spouses and friends in the Armed Forces.

“It’s a great service for people who gave everything for their country,” Diaz-Infante said. “I just want to help find a way to raise funds.”

The Broncos, who begin training camp in late July, missed the playoffs in 2006. Quarterback Jake Plummer and middle linebacker Al Wilson departed.

“I think they’re going to be good,” Diaz-Infante said. “The question is if they’re going to be great.”

Diaz-Infante played on both of the Broncos’ Super Bowl-winning teams. He has broadcast Broncos games on KOA-AM for three years. He said a key for the team is whether young players, who got some experience in 2006, can excel.

“They’ve played a lot of young guys and I think they’re going to reap those benefits,” he said.

But questions remain.

“They’ve got to create more pressure on the defense,” Diaz-Infante said. “I think (Jay Cutler) has what it takes. They have a lot of talent around him.”

Diaz-Infante, whose father fought in World War II, said he participates in several organizations but felt TAPS was something he should get involved in.

“I’ve always felt an obligation to give back,” he said.