Prediction: Devontae Booker
The Denver Broncos’ battle for starting running back will be a fun thing to watch during training camp. The release of C.J. Anderson created a problem for the Broncos. Who will take the spot as the top guy Case Keenum will be handing the ball to?
Devontae Booker: In my opinion, the Broncos will go with the guy that has been with the team the longest: Devontae Booker. Last season, Booker was second on the team in attempts (79) and yards (299). Those numbers are not even close to what former starter C.J. Anderson produced, but the next closest to Booker was Jamaal Charles, who is no longer on the team.
De’Angelo Henderson: Directly behind Booker on the depth chart at number two, I think the Broncos realize that they mishandled De’Angelo Henderson as a rookie. He rushed the ball just seven times for 13 yards during a very poor season by the team as a whole. I expect Henderson will be used more efficiently during his second season.
Royce Freeman is the third man up. I think Freeman starts training camp third on the depth chart because he is a rookie and will need to take advantage of the limited reps he will be given to prove himself to the Broncos’ coaches. I believe that he will be successful in his attempt to climb the depth chart sometime during the season, but for right now, he needs to work his tail off.
Phillip Lindsay is a popular name among Colorado natives. Signed as a college free agent, Lindsay has the support of nearly everybody. In his final two seasons at Colorado, Lindsay rushed for over 1,200 and 1,400 yards, respectively. His ability to catch the football could also benefit him in his journey of making the Denver Broncos’ roster.
I believe that David Williams will have an uphill battle in his attempt to make the roster. With Booker, Henderson, and Freeman at the top, it is between Williams and Lindsay in a battle for the final running back spot. Yes, Williams was a draft pick by the Broncos in 2018, while Lindsay was undrafted. It just feels like the Broncos are high on Lindsay.
– Predominantly Orange staff writer Graham Tiedtke