Denver Broncos training camp preview: Running backs

Denver Broncos training camp 2017: Previewing the running back position, where Jamaal Charles joins C.J. Anderson and Devontae Booker…

The Denver Broncos’ running game has been a weakness over the past couple of seasons, even as the team scratched and clawed its way to a Super Bowl title in the 2015-16 season.

As training camp approaches, the running game has taken on a completely new look and for the first time since 2014, will not be primarily a zone scheme.

There will still be some zone concepts with Mike McCoy running the offense, but the Broncos will go back to a more power-oriented system, one that should suit the personnel not only on the offensive line, but the guys in the backfield as well.

Running Backs coach: Eric Studesville (Asst. Head Coach)

Eric Studesville is in his seventh season (already) with the Broncos after being hired in January, 2010. Now in his 17th year coaching in the league, Studesville has been with the Broncos for some very fruitful production at the running back position, and some major struggles.

I suppose that will happen in the span of seven seasons…

After serving as the interim head coach when Josh McDaniels was fired in 2010, Studesville became one of the most respected coaches in Denver and has stayed on now through three different head coaching regimes (John Fox, Gary Kubiak, Vance Joseph).

His promotion this offseason is the first in his coaching career to that specific position, the details of which are unknown at this point. The added responsibility, whatever it is, will suit a great leader like Studesville.

The Broncos have not had a 1,000 yard rusher since 2013 (Knowshon Moreno) and three different players have led the team in rushing since Moreno’s departure:

2014: C.J. Anderson
2015: Ronnie Hillman
2016: Devontae Booker

There’s not much really to that, except for the fact that the Broncos’ ground game has been struggling a bit over the past three seasons.

Let’s take a look at the Broncos’ running back stable in 2017, and what each guy brings to the table…