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There were a lot of running backs in the NFL Draft that could be looked at as potential starters this season. The one name that I waited for was Montee Ball, and he was taken in the second round by the Denver Broncos. I think Ball is going to be the steal of the draft going forward while playing in an offense led by Peyton Manning.
It is understandable that Willis McGahee or Knowshon Moreno could be the team’s starter in September, but I feel that Ball might be the best choice. There is going to be an extra emphasis on passing this season with the Broncos, especially after bringing in Wes Welker. It is the perfect chance to let a rookie running back take over the position and let him grow there. You can’t expect him to go and run for 1,500 yards this season because he wouldn’t get enough chances to make that happen.
There is going to be a lot of conversation between now and the beginning of training camp on who the starter will be for the Broncos. Ball was obviously a very strong college running back who rushed for over 5,000 yards during his career. Is it possible that he does that for the Broncos right away? It’s unlikely that’s going to happen, but I see a possibility of it occurring. Denver could easily run away with the AFC West and see the emergence of a new starting running back for years to come. John Elway has already said that Ball reminds him of Terrell Davis. That’s enough for me.
Andy Schmidt is a columnist/writer for RantSports. Follow him on Twitter @ASchmidtSports, like his Facebook page or add him to your network on Google.
