DB Dawkins picked as one of Broncos' team captains

[adamslin01]

Brian Dawkins' favorite superhero is Wolverine, the member of the X-Men known for his stamina, agility, superior athleticism and high pain threshold.

You can see why after the 35-year-old safety didn't take long to win over teammates and become a leader for the Denver Broncos. All they have to do is watch him play.

He brings a menacing presence to a Denver defense that has sorely lacked one since linebacker Al Wilson's retirement nearly three years ago.

"He'll talk the talk, and he'll walk the walk," cornerback Champ Bailey said. "I don't like guys who come in and like to talk a lot and don't do everything. He's the opposite of that."

A year ago, Bailey complained that his nasty attitude wasn't rubbing off on his defensive teammates.

Dawkins has been the answer to Bailey's pleas. Now, the Pro Bowl corner has the perfect partner to help him infuse a tenacious disposition.

Dawkins provides a giant dose of toughness and leadership, precisely why the Broncos courted the 14-year veteran to s**** up a defense that's been dismal the last two years.

"He makes me want to meet his level of play," defensive back Andre' Goodman said. "If this guy can play like this at his age, why wouldn't you want to follow him?"

Dawkins has become a collector of all things Wolverine, photos and action figures taking up an entire locker stall next to his.

And just like the superhero, Dawkins is an intimidating figure.

"He's been better than I ever expected. He's a true leader," Bailey said.

That's why the team recently anointed him captain, along with Casey Wiegmann, Kyle Orton, Daniel Graham, Wesley Woodyard, Mario Haggan and Bailey.

Dawkins' leadership skills are renown. In Philadelphia, he was the heart and soul of the defense. The Broncos are now hoping that he's the bedrock - even at his age - of their rebuilding efforts as they digest defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's 3-4 scheme.

His fiery attitude has quickly rubbed off - just like Bailey had hoped. If practice loses some of its zest, Dawkins tries to elevate the tempo.

"Every practice is a game day for him," Goodman said.

Not quite.

Game days are special. Game days are when he becomes even more animated, transforming from a mild-mannered family man into a crazed ball of energy when he walks through the tunnel.

Dawkins' pre-game rants fire up a team, his bone-jarring hits during a contest inspire a squad.

That's just his style.

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