marshall-brandon1Today marks a big day for Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who will appear in an Atlanta court to face battery charges. The Denver Post calls today’s proceedings “The Trial of Star Receiver’s Career,” noting that Marshall’s future will be impacted no matter what.

If he wins, his long line of scrapes with the law will be behind him, and the Broncos may consider discussing a new contract, which is the main reason Marshall asked to be traded earlier this year. If he loses, he faces criminal punishment and a long suspension from the NFL, and his chances of a big payday go up in smoke.

Brandon Stokley, a fellow wide receiver, has seen his role increase vastly in Marshall’s absence. While Marshall was avoiding voluntary practices earlier this year, Stokley was nurturing a relationship with new quarterback Kyle Orton. Stokley tells The Associated Press that the extra effort between he and Orton put them a step ahead of everyone else.

The AP also chronicles the sad story of running back Ryan Torain, an oft-injured player who won’t be developing a relationship with anyone on the team after straining a knee ligament in practice this week, and then getting cut from the roster as a result. Rookie head coach Josh McDaniels wanted to give Torain a shot, but the injuries have proved too much.

Besides, McDaniels isn’t known for having a soft side so far. He’s regarded more for his confidence, discipline, and strict attention to detail, according to a recent training camp profile by ESPN.