Denver Broncos: The Value of Andy Janovich

There have been a number of interesting developments for the Denver Broncos in 2018, and Andy Janovich proves one truth remains for the franchise.

The traditional fullback is a dying breed in the NFL. Not many teams require fullbacks to be a valuable part of an offense. Denver Broncos fullback Andy proved since he was drafted his worth from day one.

Since his days with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Janovich has been clearing paths for running backs and is now doing so for Royce Freeman, Phillip Lindsay, and Devontae Booker.

During his rookie season, there were rumblings of helmets being shattered when defenders collided with him. This attributes to the physical and tone setting style Janovich brings to the running game.

While with the Cornhuskers, Janovich provided some much-needed versatility as a running back. It was there his receiving talent was showcased and the Broncos saw a multi-dimensional fullback.

Janovich at times is wide open on play-action rollouts because teams focus their attention on Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton, and of course tight ends. The shocking thing about Janovich is how fleet of foot he is and how solid his balance can be for his position.

We have now come to a point where Janovich might be one of the most valuable Broncos on the team.

For a moment let’s go back to the blocking of Janovich. The remarkable thing about Janovich is when it started. In 2016, Janovich and the Broncos played the Carolina Panthers in the home opener. One of the roles of a fullback is blocking the linebackers. Thomas Davis and Luke Kuechly are (or were at the time) among the best duos at the linebacker position in the league.

Janovich neutralized them nearly every opportunity given. In 2017, Janovich sustained a hand injury sidelining him for the entire season. A fullback needs grip from the hands and it obviously limited him. Janovich was not the same.

During an episode of LockedOn Broncos with fellow Predominantly Orange writer Cody Roark, he and I mentioned the possibility of using Janovich as an extra tight end or blocker. Janovich is stout in the run game and due to the lack of depth on the offensive line currently, he can be an asset.

The Denver Broncos lost Matt Paradis and Ronald Leary for the rest of the season. This leaves the Broncos with a few question marks. Janovich might be the solution to the puzzle.

For the most part, Janovich is healthy this season. Much deserved praise goes to Lindsay and Freeman for their work in running game, but same recognition must go to Janovich cleaning up the garage.

His presence in the rushing attack cannot be overstated. It is one reason Janovich (a team captain) is possibly the most underrated player on the Broncos.