Denver Broncos training camp 2018 battle: Running Back

EUGENE, OR - SEPTEMBER 26: Running back Royce Freeman #21 of the Oregon Ducks runs the ball in for a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against the Utah Utes at Autzen Stadium on September 26, 2015 in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
EUGENE, OR - SEPTEMBER 26: Running back Royce Freeman #21 of the Oregon Ducks runs the ball in for a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against the Utah Utes at Autzen Stadium on September 26, 2015 in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
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Royce Freeman
EUGENE, OR – NOVEMBER 12: Running back Royce Freeman #21 of the Oregon Ducks runs with the ball during the first quarter of the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Autzen Stadium on November 12, 2016, in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)

Final Thoughts

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It seems like the staff mostly believes that the Broncos will at least open the season with Devontae Booker as the team’s starting running back, though there will be a couple of players nipping at his heels.

Specifically, it seems like most everyone is in agreement that rookie Royce Freeman, the team’s third-round pick out of Oregon, will be the one to take over the starting role if anyone is going to do so other than Booker.

If we were to make a consensus depth chart based on the staff’s thoughts, it seems like the Broncos’ running back chart would start with Booker and Freeman, followed by De’Angelo Henderson and Phillip Lindsay with Andy Janovich at fullback and seventh-round pick David Williams heading to the practice squad.

Right now, Williams is perhaps being the most underrated of all of the Broncos’ running backs, and maybe rightfully so. He’s got plenty to prove but those in attendance were impressed by what he showed at OTAs and he might be one of the team’s best pass protectors.

Next: Five reasons the Broncos are the NFL's sleeper team

The Broncos need someone to emerge as a dynamic playmaker at running back to help take pressure off the passing game and give Case Keenum and company the most favorable situations.

If more than one player can step up in that regard, even better.

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