Denver Broncos Five Rising, Five Falling
Aug 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Juwan Thompson (40) rushes in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Seahawks 21-16. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
On the Rise
Kapri Bibbs: Bibbs wasn’t rising in training camp. In fact, I called him a training camp no-show who would need to step up when the games count or get left behind. Needless to say, he came out and played hard. His vision and burst was on display when he touched the ball. There was one concern when he fumbled the ball away, thankfully he had crossed the goal-line beforehand.
Juwan Thompson: The most impressive running back on display was Juwan Thompson. He put his ability on the field displaying speed, burst and power, a combination that not many RBs have nowadays. When C.J. Anderson left with a concussion, Thompson got even more of an opportunity, which he obviously took and ran with it. Get it? Anyways, not only did Thompson shine as a runner, but also as a blocker. He made a few key blocks to give the QB just enough time.
Kenny Anunike: The defensive line was on display all game. They were relentless and very rarely did they make a mistake. When Kenny Anunike got his chance he looked quick. There was one play where he got tangled up with the offensive linemen and managed to get free to chase the QB. His speed to gain ground was refreshing to see. He also did a swell job setting the edge in the run game to force the RB back inside.
Jordan Norwood: Returning and receiving Norwood looked great. He is now my favorite to make the 53-man roster over Isaiah Burse, IF the Broncos keep six. Practice squad isn’t an option for Norwood so he has to leave it all on the field. He must show that he is worth keeping around and last night he made his case as a returner and as a receiver. If he keeps it up, he will either be on the Broncos 53-man roster or will find a job around the NFL easily.
Marvin Austin: This was a little unfair. The Broncos put Superman on the field in the form of Marvin Austin and there was no kryptonite for the Seahawks. Austin made the offensive line look like a doormat. He was always in the backfield causing a disruption. His ability to penetrate and blow up the play was huge. As long as he keeps it up, he is going to have a major impact this season.