The Denver Broncos boast a great history of running backs. But there is more to playing the position than just racking up yards on the ground.
Running backs can also be effective in the passing game by protecting the quarterback and catching the ball out of the backfield. For many teams, those two items are a must if that player wants to see the field.
The Broncos have had some great pass-catching running backs across their history. A great pass-catcher out of the backfield can be a weapon that teams can really take advantage of, and the players on this list certainly helped their quarterbacks and their team be better.
When you think of great receiving backs that have worn the orange and blue, which players come to mind? This list features the four best receiving running backs in Broncos history.
Glyn Milburn
Glyn Milburn is not remembered for much during his short stint with the Broncos, but he was one of the better utility players the team has had. Not only was he a great return man, but he was a factor as a receiver out of the backfield.
Though Milburn played just three seasons with the Broncos, he caught 137 passes during that time. Known for his quickness and elusiveness, he could also do some damage once the ball was in his hands.
In today’s game, he would be referred to as a player that you like to get the ball to “in space”.
In 1994, Milburn caught 77 passes, which is still the most by a running back in a single season in team history. He also had six career receiving touchdowns with the team.
On December 10, 1995, in a game against the Seattle Seahawks, Milburn put his name in the NFL record book, where it still stands. On that day, he recorded 404 all-purpose yards, still the most by one player in a game in NFL history.
But that would be one of his last games in Denver.
That offseason, with sixth-round pick Terrell Davis beginning to emerge, the Broncos traded Milburn to the Detroit Lions for second and seventh-round picks in the 1996 draft.