Denver Broncos camp battles: Could an unsung RB make some noise?

Dec 5, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Denver Broncos running back Mike Boone (26) runs the ball against Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Denver Broncos running back Mike Boone (26) runs the ball against Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Broncos
Dec 12, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos tight end Albert Okwuegbunam (85) gestures to running back Damarea Crockett (28) after a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Denver Broncos current depth chart at the running back position

The team hasn’t released a depth chart at this point, but if we’re projecting:

  • Javonte Williams
  • Melvin Gordon
  • Mike Boone
  • Damarea Crockett
  • Tyreik McAllister

It’s a relatively small position group heading into training camp considering a lot of times you will see teams carry upwards of seven or eight guys going into the preseason.

The Broncos are obviously thinking quality over quantity here and only have three guys in competition behind Williams and Gordon, presumably for one spot.

The early leader in the clubhouse is probably Mike Boone, a free agent pickup in 2021 who was looking great in training camp before an injury sidelined him.

We only saw a glimpse of Boone last season but it was a very good glimpse against the Kansas City Chiefs. With his special teams ability, Boone should have a strong edge here.

Damarea Crockett also saw plenty of action on special teams last year with 182 snaps there, but barely did anything offensively.

He’s going to have to prove himself during camp and preseason games as a legitimate RB3 capable of playing a key role in regular season games in case injuries go down.

Tyreik McAllister is a fascinating rookie to keep tabs on. An undrafted free agent, McAllister is a small back with big-time speed and return ability.

The Broncos are obviously seeking help in the return game and while others are favored to win those jobs, McAllister has a shot.