ok so what RB do we draft...

[OrangeShadow]

i havent really looked into this years class yet so i was wondering...
since we ALWAYS take a back who would you like?REALISTICLY

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Michael Bush in the third round. Pure power back with good work ethic and pass receiving skills to take over for Anderson in a year or two.

[Broncoman13]

Good choice... you think he lasts to pick 95 or so though?

I'd say we have a pretty good shot at Joseph Adai (sp?) out of LSU. He has pretty good size at 6' and 215. At the height he can also put on a few pounds and not lose much. He has an injury history and hasn't played a whole lot in college...that should make him the obvious choice!!!

[Broncoman13]

Is Michael Bush coming out? Seems like he was a Sr. but perhaps he's only a Jr. and hasn't decided???

[meangene]

What about LenDale White late in round 1? I'm not really sold on any of our backs as anything but good role players. Assuming he comes out as expected.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

LenDale would be a good fit for the Broncs, but I can't see them using a first round choice on a RB with their needs elsewhere, but if he is the highest rated player on thier weighted board in April, who knows.

Hard to tell right now if M Bush will last into the 90s. The real evaluations have not started yet. Coaches and GMs are still concentrating on the season. Bet if you walked up to Shanahan right now he could not tell you the difference between Michael and Reggie Bush.

I do think RBs will be devalued in this draft due to the glut of good ones already in the league, the number of Fas and the number of good backs in this draft. There may be some bargains in rounds 3+.

[Broncoman13]

I know what you're getting at Big Guy, but there's no way in hell that Shanny doesn't know the difference between Reggie and Michael Bush. He may not be able to tell you anything about Michael, but he certainly knows who Reggie is... He's a football man and I'm possitive he knows who won the heisman. Do you think the players don't talk about him and say "coach, you've got to see this kid play...watch sportscenter tonight!"

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

I know what you're getting at Big Guy, but there's no way in hell that Shanny doesn't know the difference between Reggie and Michael Bush. He may not be able to tell you anything about Michael, but he certainly knows who Reggie is... He's a football man and I'm possitive he knows who won the heisman. Do you think the players don't talk about him and say "coach, you've got to see this kid play...watch sportscenter tonight!"

No I doubt Shanahan ever sees Sports Center - He is in the office looking at game film till midnight almost every night

[meangene]

I agree backs will be devalued in this draft with all the potential FAs and all the good backs already in the league. I like what I've seen of Bush. Great receiver and good instincts. I worry that he's another Rod Bernstein though at 6'3". Running tall and getting hurt. I could see us taking a back in Rd. 1 with two picks. We have a lot of picks in this draft and can fill needs later particularly at positions which don't have a lot of first round talent (i.e. WR).

While I'm sure Shanny has not been too into draft prep, the personnel people certainly have! At least I sure hope so!

[Ratboy]

I would **** my pants if Shanahan drafted a runningback in the first round. Depending on whom.. I might be happy with it.

[meangene]

I would **** my pants if Shanahan drafted a runningback in the first round. Depending on whom.. I might be happy with it.

Early in the year I would have agreed with you. But, who do you see as our running back of the future? Bell is really the only candidate but I'm not convinced he is a feature back. He's gotten more carries the last couple of weeks and not really done much. Don't forget, our offense is based on the run game first.

[Jens1893]

Early in the year I would have agreed with you. But, who do you see as our running back of the future? Bell is really the only candidate but I'm not convinced he is a feature back. He's gotten more carries the last couple of weeks and not really done much. Don't forget, our offense is based on the run game first.

Mikey is 32, but has less than 900 career carries. He only turned pro when he was 26 and still has alot of left. His legs are still there and I don´t see any reason why he can´t go on for another 2 years. Running back is the easiest position to fill on a football team, just look at the success Samkon Gado has had in Green Bay. Look at how many 1,000 yard rushers the NFL has seen in the past few years. A few years ago getting a 1,000 still was a good achievment, but to be considered elite 1,500 is the magic number nowadays.

[meangene]

Mikey is 32, but has less than 900 career carries. He only turned pro when he was 26 and still has alot of left. His legs are still there and I don´t see any reason why he can´t go on for another 2 years. Running back is the easiest position to fill on a football team, just look at the success Samkon Gado has had in Green Bay. Look at how many 1,000 yard rushers the NFL has seen in the past few years. A few years ago getting a 1,000 still was a good achievment, but to be considered elite 1,500 is the magic number nowadays.

I agree if you're satisfied with good backs. I think we need a great back to really make our offense elite. I think we need that 1500 yard rusher particularly since our offense, hell, our whole team, is built on our ability to run the ball.

[Jens1893]

I agree if you're satisfied with good backs. I think we need a great back to really make our offense elite. I think we need that 1500 yard rusher particularly since our offense, hell, our whole team, is built on our ability to run the ball.

The only 2 truly special backs we´ve had in recent years are TD and Clinton Portis. LenDale White, as you mentioned, above is a pick I wouldn´t mind at all. And while I´m not unhappy with Mike Anderson by any means, but I´ve only really liked him for a 3-4 game stretch this season. Any thoughts on Maroney?

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

The only 2 truly special backs we´ve had in recent years are TD and Clinton Portis. LenDale White, as you mentioned, above is a pick I wouldn´t mind at all. And while I´m not unhappy with Mike Anderson by any means, but I´ve only really liked him for a 3-4 game stretch this season. Any thoughts on Maroney?

Maroney has plenty of talent. Realy carried the load this year, which was a question if he could do it without Barber. Should be a solid pick for someone. He could drop down and be reunited with Barber at Dallas. Jones has been too fragile for Tuna.

[Elway 4 Life]

The only 2 truly special backs we´ve had in recent years are TD and Clinton Portis. LenDale White, as you mentioned, above is a pick I wouldn´t mind at all. And while I´m not unhappy with Mike Anderson by any means, but I´ve only really liked him for a 3-4 game stretch this season. Any thoughts on Maroney?

Not physical enough.

Laurence Malroney
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 205 | 40-Time: 4.50

Official Bio

Strengths:
A big play threat who can take it the distance from any point on the field...Has been extremely productive at the college level...Patient runner with excellent vision and instincts...Does a good job of following his blockers...Explosive with a strong lower body and the ability to break tackles...Has an extra gear and is much faster than his forty time would lead you to believe...Can also return kicks.

Weaknesses:
Doesn't have the size you would like to see in a feature back...Hands are questionable at best and he was not used much as a receiver in college...Isn't a physical runner and prefers to shy away from contact...Plays in a system that is conducive to running backs producing big numbers...Didn't carry the load until the '05 season after splitting time with Marion Barber III...Hails from a program known for great college runners who failed to make much of an impact in the pros.

Notes:
A prolific college running back who might not be quite the pro prospect his press clippings would lead you to believe...There is a lot to like about this guy, but when you factor in his size, receiving abilities and the system he plays in there are certainly some things that concern you as well...Let the buyer beware.


I like this guy.

Joseph Addai
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 214 | 40-Time: 4.41

Official Bio

Strengths:
Has excellent timed speed with quick feet and a burst...Outstanding receiver out of the backfield...Runs hard and with power...Strong and can slip tacklers...Patient runner with good balance...Hits the hole and runs north / south...Also a very good blocker...Was always productive and made the most of his chances...Hard worker and team leader with top intangibles...Still has a lot of upside and potential.

Weaknesses:
Has only average size...Never carried the load in college and always split time with others...Is not very imaginative as a runner and doesn't have a lot of moves or wiggle...Durability is a concern as he was sidelined with minor ailments throughout his career and a torn ACL in '01...Is he more Domanick Davis or Kevin Faulk?

Notes:
Interesting prospect who only got a chance to start as a senior due to injuries...Underrated and could end up being better in the pros than he was in college with additional opportunities...A player who does everything well and will find a role at the pro level whether it be as a starter or situational player.


This guy might be worth takin a look at. He is very physical.

Gerald Riggs Jr.
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 217 | 40-Time: 4.52

Official Bio

Strengths:
Has good size...Is a powerful and physical runner who craves contact...Always keeps his legs moving and will run over defenders...Strong and breaks a lot of tackles...Very athletic with great balance and a burst...Is a patient runner with good vision...Has been productive when given a chance...Still has a lot of upside.

Weaknesses:
Was never the Vols primary ball carrier for an extended period...Does not have amazing speed and isn't a breakaway threat...Doesn't have a lot of wiggle and is basically a north / south runner...Might have some character concerns...Is not a great receiver...A below average blocker...Missed a lot of time with ankle injuries.

Notes:
The son of former Pro Bowl NFL running back Gerald Riggs...A top recruit coming out of high school who never lived up to the hype at the college level due to a variety of factors including lack of opportunity and injuries...Could turn out to be a better pro than college player as he has yet to reach his full potential.


None of these guys are 1500 yard backs though IMO.

[Jens1893]

Maroney sounds a bit like Bell.

[meangene]

I don't think Maroney fits our style. Finesse type runner. I have seen him with a first round grade though. I've seen Riggs Jr a few times and have not been impressed. He's a real underacheiver. I saw Addai evaluated as a good third down type back - jack of all trades. The only backs I've seen that I've been impressed with and who will, or could, be available to us are White and Bush. But, TD was a sixth so you never know. Other than Clarret our staff seems to do well evaluating backs.

[Broncoman13]

Meangene... you've never watched a Gopher game w/Maroney if you think he doesn't fit our style. There isn't a RB out there that isn't more prepared to be a Bronco than Maroney! Minny runs the EXACT same scheme as the Broncos. Same exact style lineman, same cutback running game... Maroney was built and formed to be a Bronco... but he won't last. You put 10 lbs on Maroney and you're talking TDII. Saying he isn't physical isn't saying a whole lot. Is he gonna run over a LB like Jerome Bettis...NO, will be break a LB's tackle like TD...Yes. There are three RB's in this draft that I'd love to have... Bush, Williams, and Maroney. Of the three Maroney is the most prepared to play in Denver and could come in a not miss a beat.

[meangene]

Meangene... you've never watched a Gopher game w/Maroney if you think he doesn't fit our style. There isn't a RB out there that isn't more prepared to be a Bronco than Maroney! Minny runs the EXACT same scheme as the Broncos. Same exact style lineman, same cutback running game... Maroney was built and formed to be a Bronco... but he won't last. You put 10 lbs on Maroney and you're talking TDII. Saying he isn't physical isn't saying a whole lot. Is he gonna run over a LB like Jerome Bettis...NO, will be break a LB's tackle like TD...Yes. There are three RB's in this draft that I'd love to have... Bush, Williams, and Maroney. Of the three Maroney is the most prepared to play in Denver and could come in a not miss a beat.

I know they run the same style offense and I agree that he would be well prepared from the learning curve standpoint. I'm just not as impressed as you obviously are from what I've seen of him in terms of toughness. TD was very physical even though not a pure "power" runner. I think Maroney would be available to us in round 1 though. I can't quite get a feel for Williams. I know he's highly rated and has great numbers. What do you know about that whole deal with him not playing vs. Tennessee? Are you not impressed with White? I really like bigger backs. I think late in the season they tend to wear out defenses.

[Broncoman13]

I think Lendale is a good runner. I'd like to see his 40 time (not altogether important, but I am curious) and how he does in the cone drills. I know he's more of a bruiser, but a bruiser with a little speed and shiftyness would be awesome!

DWillII sat out vs Tenn b/c of injury. He could have played and practiced some leading up to the game. Many questioned his toughness for sitting out that game, but this is a kid that broke his leg and continued to play for about another quarter in last year's bowl game. I think he kind of got spooked. This is his Sr. year and he knew he couldn't go back to school if he suffered another injury that took a good bit of time to recover from. I also think he was a little timid b/c he wasn't 100% and wouldn't perform as well as he expected, and that could cause some scouts to say he didn't do well vs top comp. I don't have an inside scoop, just stating what I think went on.

I'll tell you this much about him though. The 4.5 that they have him listed at doesn't do him justice. If he runs a 4.5 then Reggie Bush runs a 4.48! They look very similar with regards to speed. I think DWillII would be good in Denver b/c he has a great ability to take the ball up the middle and then cut it outside for a big gain. He has that rare vision and explosiveness that would make him a good fit.

[meangene]

I think Lendale is a good runner. I'd like to see his 40 time (not altogether important, but I am curious) and how he does in the cone drills. I know he's more of a bruiser, but a bruiser with a little speed and shiftyness would be awesome!

DWillII sat out vs Tenn b/c of injury. He could have played and practiced some leading up to the game. Many questioned his toughness for sitting out that game, but this is a kid that broke his leg and continued to play for about another quarter in last year's bowl game. I think he kind of got spooked. This is his Sr. year and he knew he couldn't go back to school if he suffered another injury that took a good bit of time to recover from. I also think he was a little timid b/c he wasn't 100% and wouldn't perform as well as he expected, and that could cause some scouts to say he didn't do well vs top comp. I don't have an inside scoop, just stating what I think went on.

I'll tell you this much about him though. The 4.5 that they have him listed at doesn't do him justice. If he runs a 4.5 then Reggie Bush runs a 4.48! They look very similar with regards to speed. I think DWillII would be good in Denver b/c he has a great ability to take the ball up the middle and then cut it outside for a big gain. He has that rare vision and explosiveness that would make him a good fit.

I thought Williams looked faster than his 4.5 time in the bowl game. I also thought he looked lighter than the 217 I saw him listed at. I thought Lou Holtz kind of questioned his desire a little when asked about the whole Tennessee thing and then why he wasn't in the bowl game late when they were grinding down the clock. That offense he plays in is really odd. A lot of shotgun and single back stuff. I'm just not sure about him. I hope he plays in some of the postseason games.

[TheDave]

for all the people who say no way to a RB in the first round... Imagine what someone like an LT, Shawn Alexander, even a Larry Johnson does in our system. Since i spent very little time looking at the Draft prospects i have no idea if any of the guys coming out are anywhere near as talented as the ones i just mentioned. My point is if you place a RB with freakish talent in our system you could have someone hit 2000 yards in a season multiple times. Imagine how good that makes Jake Plummer look. Remember how invincible this team was with TD... Wouldn't mind seeing that again.

[Broncoman13]

Larry Johnson caliber yes... Shaun Alexander caliber maybe... LT caliber, only if you have the first pick and get Reggie Bush!

Lendale White could fall in the Larry Johnson or Shaun Alexander category. Maroney is neither since he's likely a system back. DeAngelo Williams is more similar to LT than Alexander or LJ, but not as good. If I had to compare him with somebody I'd say he's another Cadillac Williams or DeShaun Foster. He's certainly talented... if he could catch better he'd be a Tiki Barber clone.

[Billy Clyde Puckett]

Larry Johnson caliber yes... Shaun Alexander caliber maybe... LT caliber, only if you have the first pick and get Reggie Bush!

Lendale White could fall in the Larry Johnson or Shaun Alexander category. Maroney is neither since he's likely a system back. DeAngelo Williams is more similar to LT than Alexander or LJ, but not as good. If I had to compare him with somebody I'd say he's another Cadillac Williams or DeShaun Foster. He's certainly talented... if he could catch better he'd be a Tiki Barber clone.

Pretty good comparison from what I have seen. Maroney not tough enough? He carried the ball almost 30 times a game the entire season in the Big Ten. Sounds as tough as anyone to me.

[Broncoman13]

I think people confuse toughness with being able to run over LB's and safeties. Maroney gave up a lot of goal line carries too. You'd be talking about a RB with 30+ TD's if he was the sole threat on that team!!!

[OrangeShadow]

I like this guy.

Joseph Addai
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 214 | 40-Time: 4.41

Official Bio

Strengths:
Has excellent timed speed with quick feet and a burst...Outstanding receiver out of the backfield...Runs hard and with power...Strong and can slip tacklers...Patient runner with good balance...Hits the hole and runs north / south...Also a very good blocker...Was always productive and made the most of his chances...Hard worker and team leader with top intangibles...Still has a lot of upside and potential.

Weaknesses:
Has only average size...Never carried the load in college and always split time with others...Is not very imaginative as a runner and doesn't have a lot of moves or wiggle...Durability is a concern as he was sidelined with minor ailments throughout his career and a torn ACL in '01...Is he more Domanick Davis or Kevin Faulk?

Notes:
Interesting prospect who only got a chance to start as a senior due to injuries...Underrated and could end up being better in the pros than he was in college with additional opportunities...A player who does everything well and will find a role at the pro level whether it be as a starter or situational player.


This guy might be worth takin a look at. He is very physical.

i like what im hearing about him

[Elway 4 Life]

i like what im hearing about him

The only thing that scares me about him is the torn acl. He seems to have completely recovered but I'm always leary of RB's with knee injuries. He is worth a look though.

[Broncoman13]

That's what makes him fit. Shanny has a soft spot in his heart for those RB's coming off ACLs!

[RocBronc]

I don't see us drafting a RB on day one... We need so many other things right now. However, if I'm sitting there at the end of round one with Lendale White sitting there, I don't know how you pass this kid up.

[meangene]

I see where Maroney declared he is going pro after yesterday's bowl game. Also, the announcers said there were scouts there from several teams including Denver and Indy who were interested in seeing him perform. Hmmmm.

[Broncoman13]

Maroney is the most prepared RB for our scheme. He be a very good back in our system, but he wouldn't bring more than what we already have... IMO. Similar size to Tatum (though he is more physical) and not quite as fast. If Shanny is afraid to give Tatum the carries why would it be any different with Maroney?

Lendale is the choice man! I'm very interested to see what he's going to time in the 40. If he goes anywhere in the 4.4's we won't see him..he'll be long gone! If he runs in the 4.5's we'll have a chance! Some scouts are listing him at 4.5 flat right now. At 6'2 and 235 he'd go a long way toward solving our poor 3rd down %. You know that will be on Shanny's mind going into the draft. If this guy is available when we pick I think he's a Bronco!

Position: Running Back
School: USC

Status: Junior

Height: 6-2

Weight: 235

40-Yard Dash: 4.50 (EST)


Positives:
LenDale White is a freight train ready to run defenders over. He is a load to bring down and has solidified himself as one of the best power runners in college football. Leading the way for that potent rushing attack of the Trojans, he has been a consistent force in the backfield. He has a great combination of size and speed, and an underrated sense of vision. Many people forget what a great receiver he is. This quality will help him greatly in the draft.

Negatives:
He has a tendency to try to be too shifty. Instead, he should be running north and south. The biggest knock on him is his inability to block the pass rush. He needs to get rid of these bad habits or many teams will pass on him.

Overview:
I think this guy will be a stud in the NFL. With the right coaching, LenDale White will be an elite running back in this league. In my opinion, he will be a better pro than Reggie Bush, which will come as a surprise to many. His great vision, speed, and size will take him far in the league. LenDale White will be a better pro player then he was a college player, and that is just scary.
NFL Comparison: A better Duce Staley


This is really scary: As a Recruit out of HS!



Running back / Fullback

Littleton (CO)
Chatfield

Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 225 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.41 seconds
Committed: July, 8, 2003



LenDale White, RB, Southern Cal

Name: LenDale White
College: Southern Cal Number: 21
Height: 6-2 Weight: 235
Position: RB Pos2:
Class/Draft Year: Jr/2007
40 Time: 4.49
Projected Round: 1 Stock:
Rated number 2 out of 106 RB's 4 / 1051

[meangene]

Yep. LenDale White is my choice too. Could last to pick 1a with Bush, Williams and, maybe, Maroney going ahead of him. He'll probably be there and we'll pick a LB or something. I am encouraged that our scouts were looking at Maroney though - might mean they are at least thinking RB early.

[Broncoman13]

Maybe, but I think there's just as good of a chance that our guys were there to watch the entire line from Minn. Their Center and one of their guards are amongst the best in the country... we need help at both positions.

Maroney seems logical b/c he's playing in an identical style offense.

I was a little discouraged when I heard that some scouts are ranking Lendale White as the 2nd best RB in the draft. Plus, he has a 4.41 40 in his career on the books. He may not run that fast now, but if he gets close to that he'll challenge for a top 10 pick!

[SpringStein]

Yep. LenDale White is my choice too. Could last to pick 1a with Bush, Williams and, maybe, Maroney going ahead of him. He'll probably be there and we'll pick a LB or something. I am encouraged that our scouts were looking at Maroney though - might mean they are at least thinking RB early.

I don't believe he will be there at early 20's. At worst he will be 3rd rb taken. This is going to be a great year - there will be some outstanding choices to be made for all teams. A nice year to have stocked up on picks!

[SpringStein]

I was a little discouraged when I heard that some scouts are ranking Lendale White as the 2nd best RB in the draft. Plus, he has a 4.41 40 in his career on the books. He may not run that fast now, but if he gets close to that he'll challenge for a top 10 pick!

You are right on with that info.

[Broncoman13]

I love the fact that Hester is coming out. I want him in the 2nd. He doesn't have a true position, but getting him coached up and on the field will be a 2-3 year plan. That's what we need right now. Building for the future on an already solid team is why the Pats were/are this good for so long. HESTER IN THE 2ND!!!!!!!!

[SoCalBronco]

If we resolve the Pryce, Brown, Warren and Lepsis situation so that we arent in a position of dire need at any of those positions, I wouldnt mind Lendale White at 1A at approximately Pick 20 or so. Maroney is another option, but I like White better. Michael Bush in the 2nd round would be a very good choice also.

[Broncoman13]

I've seen Bush going as high as 15th overall SoCal!

Lendale or bust for me. No difference in Maroney and Bell/MA/Dayne imo. Big difference between those guys and Lendale!

[meangene]

I don't believe he will be there at early 20's. At worst he will be 3rd rb taken. This is going to be a great year - there will be some outstanding choices to be made for all teams. A nice year to have stocked up on picks!

It'll probably depend on what underclassmen come out and the needs of teams ahead of us. Also, what type of back fits the system of the teams. The backs are all different types of runners. I think either a top DE or RB will be there at 1a.

[Elway 4 Life]

I love the fact that Hester is coming out. I want him in the 2nd. He doesn't have a true position, but getting him coached up and on the field will be a 2-3 year plan. That's what we need right now. Building for the future on an already solid team is why the Pats were/are this good for so long. HESTER IN THE 2ND!!!!!!!!

If we dont get huff, I would like to see them get hester. He is as explosive as anyone in college right now. He is a nightmare on special teams and is being tutored by deon sanders. He could be a special guy in a defensive backfield.

[RunByDesign]

When is Adrian Peterson (OU) going to be available?

I feel like this guy is the back with all the skills that fit our system.

[SpringStein]

When is Adrian Peterson (OU) going to be available?

I feel like this guy is the back with all the skills that fit our system.

After next year. Will be 3 years removed from HS at that time.