The Denver Broncos made some tectonic changes to their running back corps since the 2021 calendar year began.
Lindsay signed a one-year deal with the Houston Texans, which positioned Melvin Gordon as the unquestioned, understood running back No.
In perhaps not the wisest decision, Gordon opted to skip the Broncos’ voluntary OTAs, giving rise to Williams, who, despite the presence of the more-than-competent Boone, had more of a lion’s share of the reps than he would have otherwise had.
Only time will tell whether Gordon’s sabbatical indeed opened the door for Williams, even by a crack, which the rookie could have used to get his foot in and kick it wide open.
Head coach Vic Fangio took to the virtual podium following the Broncos’ second practice of mandatory minicamp, which featured Gordon the day prior, too, and dished on how the running backs are distinguishing themselves thus far.
“Well, I think there’s enough work to be had for everybody if everybody proves they’re worthy,” Fangio said.
Meanwhile, Fangio acknowledged the regard the Broncos have for their rookie second-rounder but didn’t want to omit Boone from the conversation.
As much as Williams garnered the praise of media since the offseason practices were opened to the media, Gordon shined in Tuesday and Wednesday’s practice sessions, especially as a receiver out of the backfield.
But what about Boone? We might rightly say that Freeman is the forgotten man in the Broncos’ backfield, but Boone, being the newcomer, should not be overlooked or slept on.
“He’s quick’ he’s decisive; he can run,” Fangio said of Boone.
“I’m very confident, man,” Gordon said following Tuesday’s practice.
“I’m going to go out here and give my everything to this team because that’s what this team deserves,” Gordon said.
“At some point in time, we’re going to need him, we’re going to need Royce and we’re going to need Boone.