Denver Broncos: Mike Boone “not a guy to sleep on” at training camp
The Denver Broncos appear to have three or four running backs that could earn reps during the 2021 season. With Melvin Gordon penciled in as the starter and rookie second-round pick Javonte Williams potentially filling in at the number two role, we take a look at a new acquisition.
That player is Mike Boone, formerly of the Minnesota Vikings.
Boone arrived in the league as an undrafted free agent in 2018. The Broncos signed Boone this offseason and on Tuesday, head coach Vic Fangio pointed him out as a player to keep an eye on going forward.
"Mike’s a good running back. He’s got juice. He’s explosive. He’s not a guy to fall asleep on.”— Broncos head coach Vic Fangio (via Broncos PR)"
That spells trouble for 2018 third-round pick Royce Freeman unless the Broncos decide on keeping four running backs. Freeman has been rumored to be in trade discussions throughout the offseason and early stages of football activities and could be on the roster bubble.
It is still early in training camp, and somebody else might pull ahead, but right now, it feels like Boone could find himself as the team’s third or fourth-string running back behind Gordon, and Williams (and potentially Freeman).
The Broncos put heavy emphasis on the run game during Tuesday’s practice, and Boone obviously stood out. It’s during these times where players need to make a name for themselves and earn that roster spot. More of the talents of these players will be shown during the preseason, which begins in 11 days against the Minnesota Vikings. Prior to that game, the two teams will have joint practices against each other.
Boone will also play on special teams.
Boone and every roster bubble player that makes it through the next week or so will have at least one preseason game to show what they can do. If they’re lucky and good at their assignments, they’ll earn another week to show that they deserve a spot on the 53-man roster. It appears Boone might have already found his spot with the Denver Broncos.