Broncos player series: Juwan Thompson fits offense
By Aric Manthey
Dec 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Juwan Thompson (40) runs the ball against Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus (99) in the third quarter. The Broncos defeated the Bills 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
As we get ready for training camp to begin later this month, now would be the appropriate time to take an in-depth look at all of the players on our roster. Although some players have been getting the lion’s share of attention lately, it’s important to analyze the entire roster and identify players that could possibly become big time contributors this year. Like the long standing record of rookie free agents making the 53 man roster, it seems like there’s always one little known player that emerges in training camp and ends up making a big impact on the team that season.
Last season, CJ Anderson and Brandon Marshall forged their way into the limelight with their consistent and powerful play on the field. Although he made some plays worthy of making a highlight reel last year, I think 2015 will be the year where this player takes the next step and cements himself as a “brick” player in our offense. That player, is Juwan Thompson.
A 2nd year back out of Duke, Juwan Thompson continued the tradition of a rookie free agent making the 53 man roster last year. Making the most of his few opportunities, he averaged five yards a carry and rumbled for three TD’s in back up duty. A back with a thick build (5’ll, 225 lbs) and adequate athleticism, Thompson’s no-nonsense running style is what may ultimately set him apart in the crowded Broncos backfield.
With Kubiak’s return comes a new (old) blocking style, reminiscent of the style that helped pave the way to two Super Bowl championships. With this blocking scheme, it becomes paramount that all running backs don’t “dance in the backfield” but rather get up field ASAP. The “one cut and go” running style has suddenly come back en vogue in Denver and Juwan Thompson will be the likeliest beneficiary of the change.
Although he may be lacking top end speed and ability to change direction quickly, Juwan Thompson is the ideal combination of strength, size and running style that is well suited for the new offense. He may not outrun you, but as we saw the in the preseason game against the 49ers last year, Juwan Thompson has the power to run over defenders and keep churning for positive yardage.
Last but certainly not least, Thompson’s knowledge of the offense is what may ultimately give him a prominent role on offense. A protégé of David Cutcliffe’s offense, Juwan Thompson quickly showed his strong mental aptitude towards the offense and was able to understand the assignments that Manning would give him with relative ease.
If we’ve learned anything in Manning’s tenure here in Denver, it’s that no matter how talented you may be, you won’t see the field if you’re not fluent in the terminology of the offense.
Despite his low draft stock and pedestrian college stats, Thompson provided the Broncos with an intelligent back that is capable of handling all the necessary duties in any offense. With his combination of size, strength, running style, intelligence, blocking ability and little to no injury history to speak of, Juwan Thompson is in prime shape to have a great camp and take the next step this year.
Despite CJ Anderson and Montee Ball beginning training camp as the top two backs, Thompson’s no-nonsense playing style will make everyone take notice. Even though he has the versatility to play fullback and excel on special teams, Thompson’s playing style and intelligence will cement his role in the Broncos backfield for the foreseeable future.