Denver Broncos: Juwan Thompson ready to step up
Denver Broncos backup fullback Juwan Thompson is ready to step into a bigger role now with Andy Janovich out for the season…
Adding a more traditional fullback into the offense meant a numbers game for the Denver Broncos that didn’t originally include Juwan Thompson.
It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but the Broncos decided to keep four backs on the roster to start the season: C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker, Kapri Bibbs, and fullback Andy Janovich. Despite the fact that Juwan Thompson had made the team as an undrafted player in 2014 and made the roster again in 2015, the Broncos subjected him to waivers at final cuts.
Luckily for the Broncos, the league rules allow players with Thompson’s experience to have eligibility to be placed on the practice squad, and that’s exactly what they did. Thompson also chose the Broncos’ practice squad potentially over other opportunities around the league, and just had to wait patiently for his time.
After an injury to C.J. Anderson opened up a roster spot, the Broncos called on the former Mr. Everything from Duke and immediately plugged him into the gameplan.
He only has one carry so far this season, but it was effective. His one carry went for one yard and a touchdown in the Broncos’ home win over the San Diego Chargers.
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Thompson knows the shoes to be filled by Janovich are bigger than a lot of outsiders understand. Janovich has been a key piece of the Broncos’ offense, even though it has struggled mightily at times.
“I’m ready to step up. I know the offense very well. It’s going to be hard to replace Andy, but I’m going to do my best to do it.
This is the business that we’re in. Things happen day-to-day. You never know what is going to happen, but when you’re called up you have to make a play.”
Part of why the Broncos were so comfortable bringing Thompson up from the practice squad is his versatility. We’ve talked about it ever since he was signed as a UDFA in 2014, but Thompson has played running back, fullback, linebacker, special teams — you name it.
The versatility he brings to this team and his ability as a runner and receiver can be an asset to this offense. What he brings as a blocker?
That’s more a work in progress.
This is an exciting opportunity for Thompson, even though the circumstances aren’t ideal.