Denver Broncos training camp 2018 battle: Running Back

Prediction: Devontae Booker

The Denver Broncos enter the 2018 season with a “loaded” backfield, but there’s still the unknown looking at multiple running backs.

Due to the loss of CJ Anderson in free agency, the Broncos decided to turn their focus to unknown commodities. Devontae Booker has the most experience of any back on the roster while De’Angelo Henderson, Royce Freeman, David Williams, and Phillip Lindsay are newcomers.

Booker is a talented three-down back in the NFL. He displayed the ability to run east/west and north/south. However, Booker decided to carry the ball more north and south absorbing contact than evading defenders. In college, Booker was dynamic showing scouts glimpses of Arian Foster in his game. It’s gone missing since joining the NFL. That said, Booker’s proved his worth as a pass blocker and receiver out of the backfield to be a reliable option for Case Keenum.

Henderson is the next player with the most ‘experience’. Henderson proved his worth to be on the 53-man roster but saw playing time only at the end of the season. Once the year became lost, the Broncos should’ve turned to Henderson.

Henderson is a small, stocky back that provides exceptional quickness for a player his size. Initially, a role as a third-down back would be ideal this season.

Royce Freeman and Phillip Lindsay are the newcomers. This is where it gets interesting. Both Freeman and Lindsay are great stories first and foremost. Freeman has plenty of wear on the tires, but using a “pitch count” early can help unleash him later. Freeman is the type of back to assume a starting job in training camp, preseason or mid-season. He is the bell-cow of the group and best candidate to average 20 carries a game.

Lindsay’s like CJ Anderson. Anderson was one of many UDFA success stories and model for new free agents. Lindsay continues the mindset to prove every doubter wrong. Lindsay also is the Swiss Army Knife back.

He does everything you ask of him. He can return kicks, catch passes on third down, or start in a pinch. He can do it all.

– Predominantly Orange staff writer Cameron Parker