The Facts: During workouts this week it was clear that Royal could become the safety valve that Philip Rivers has missed since Darren Sproles left for New Orleans. "He's a real smooth receiver," Turner said. "He reminds me of Charlie Joiner, and reminds me of Henry Ellard, guys that I've been around. He's very deceptive. And sometimes he doesn't look like he's going that fast, and he's hauling."

Diehards Line:That's a rather heady comparison. But there's no denying that Royal was miscast last season in a Broncos offense that turned to power-running signal-caller Tim Tebow. Nor is there any denying the fact that Royal has proven to be an effective receiver when given the opportunities. Remember his 91-catch, 980-yard, five-TD rookie season? He's capable. As Profootballtalk.com noted, Vincent Jackson is gone and the team signed four veteran wide receivers this offseason. Roscoe Parrish and Micheal Spurlock will need to fight for snaps, but Robert Meachem will likely start. And Royal? It's starting to sound like he's ready to push for a signficant role.