Denver Broncos: 2018 Free Agent Options at Running Back
Despite CJ Anderson’s 1,000-yard season for the Denver Broncos, the team will possibly have two new additions at the running back position.
It will be very hard to cut ties with Denver Broncos running back CJ Anderson. Achieving 1,000+ yards in rushing seems like a rarity the past few seasons. More over, the Broncos faced its first losing season under President of Football Operations John Elway watch. The last time the Broncos were embarrassing the defense encountered massive turnover. This time it appears to be the offenses turn.
Anderson’s 1,000-yard season is a positive, but it seems he might be looking for a new team. Another in-house free agent Jamaal Charles is heading for a market elsewhere. There’s almost no reason to re-sign Charles unless there’s a plan to repair the damage done by staff and front office. Hence, Charles is not coming back.
The quarterback will be the primary focus for the Denver Broncos in the offseason. Yet, the running back position has surprising value all across the board. The group is headlined by Le’Veon Bell. Others fall after him, but I expect there to be interest in adding a running back in the offseason. However, it is more likely they add a back in the NFL Draft
That said here are the potential options that might interest the Broncos.
Le’Veon Bell
There’s a massive if in this scenario of adding Le’Veon Bell to the Denver Broncos. Bell is the most dynamic running back in the NFL. He is effective in between the tackles and as a receiver. The defensive game plan changes when Bell is on the offense. However, Bell has this telepathic nature to stop and see a hole develop better than anyway.
Another reason to target Bell is he also alleviates issues with the offensive line. The talent to jump cut and let offensive line to create small creases is enough for Bell to make it work in Denver. Unfortunately with the best player in the position group comes the money.
Bell will command wide receiver money on the market and he might have a case given his versatility. Due to the Broncos bigger need at quarterback adding Bell is a huge long shot. Also he is nearing 500 touches which is unprecedented for a running back. That amount of touches can affect a possible wear and tear on a back’s legs.
Odds: 5 percent