"The end is here for one longtime Broncos great.

And the beginnings for two potential franchise cornerstones remain temporarily on hold.

A news conference is scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday as an official send-off for Rod Smith, who'll go from the reserve list to retired.

Expect no future Brett Favre-type drama in this particular case.

Left hip issues and two subsequent surgeries have sapped Smith of the physical gifts that made him the Broncos' all-time leader in most receiving categories, a sure entrant to the Ring of Fame and a contender for enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

While Smith's heart remains in the game, his 38-year-old body simply won't allow it. He finishes his career with more receptions (849), yards (11,389) and receiving touchdowns (68) than any other undrafted player in NFL history.

His popularity with fans and teammates during 14 years in Denver was best summed up by Broncos safety John Lynch, who said, "If Rod was a politician, he'd get the red states and the blue states." Smith likely will be honored at halftime of a Broncos home game this season.

"Rod came to work," former Broncos tight end Shannon Sharpe said. "I'm proud to have played the years I played with him. For a guy to come out undrafted and play, what, 13 years, and become the franchise's all-time leading receiver.

"Three Pro Bowls, two Super Bowls, it all speaks for itself. He got every ounce of everything from his career."

Smith's send-off will occur just a couple hours before the initial team meeting of training camp, where items such as guaranteed money and contract structure could keep Denver's first two draft picks - offensive tackle Ryan Clady and receiver Eddie Royal - away.

But late Wednesday, there were strong indications the Royal deal was nearing completion and could be finalized this morning.

Royal, the 42nd pick, is expected to eventually sign a four-year deal with about $2.3 million to $2.5 million in guarantees."