The Denver Broncos, a renowned NFL franchise, boast an impressive roster of running backs who have left an indelible mark on the team's history. From Hall of Famers to contemporary stars, these athletes have played a pivotal role in shaping the Broncos' success on the gridiron. Let's delve into the world of Broncos running backs and explore their contributions to the team's legacy.
The Legacy of Broncos Running Backs
The running back position has been a cornerstone of the Denver Broncos' offensive strategy for decades. These players, with their combination of speed, agility, and power, have been instrumental in leading the team to numerous victories and Super Bowl championships. Here, we celebrate the exceptional running backs who have called the Broncos home.
Hall of Fame Inductees
The Broncos have had the honor of boasting two running backs who have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. These players not only left an impact on the team but also etched their names in NFL history.
Terrell Davis
Terrell Davis, often referred to as "T.D.," is a legendary running back who spent his entire NFL career with the Denver Broncos. Drafted in the sixth round of the 1995 NFL Draft, Davis quickly rose to prominence, becoming a key figure in the team's success during the late 1990s.
Davis' impact was immediate, as he led the NFL in rushing yards in his rookie season, an unprecedented feat. He went on to win two Super Bowl championships with the Broncos, including the Most Valuable Player award in Super Bowl XXXII. His career was unfortunately cut short due to injuries, but his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history remains intact.
Floyd Little
Floyd Little, nicknamed "The Franchise," was the first overall pick in the 1967 NFL Draft, selected by the Denver Broncos. He became the face of the franchise during his career, showcasing exceptional talent and leadership.
Little's career with the Broncos spanned from 1967 to 1975, during which he established himself as a premier running back. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, solidifying his place among the NFL's all-time greats.
Contemporary Stars
While the Broncos have a rich history with Hall of Fame running backs, the team continues to produce exceptional talent at the position. Here are some of the standout running backs who have contributed to the Broncos' success in recent years.
Clinton Portis
Clinton Portis joined the Denver Broncos in 2003 and quickly established himself as a dynamic playmaker. He was known for his elusiveness and big-play ability, often breaking long runs to spark the Broncos' offense.
Portis' most productive season came in 2003, when he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and played a vital role in the Broncos' offensive success during his time with the team.
Knowshon Moreno
Knowshon Moreno, drafted by the Broncos in 2009, brought a combination of power and speed to the team's backfield. He was a reliable runner and an effective pass-catcher, making him a versatile asset for the offense.
Moreno's best season came in 2013, when he rushed for over 1,000 yards and caught 60 passes for over 500 yards. He was a key contributor to the Broncos' high-powered offense, helping the team reach the Super Bowl that year.
C.J. Anderson
C.J. Anderson, an undrafted free agent, joined the Broncos in 2013 and quickly made an impact. He emerged as a reliable and productive running back, providing a consistent rushing attack for the team.
Anderson's breakout season came in 2014, where he rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored eight touchdowns. He was a crucial part of the Broncos' Super Bowl 50-winning team, solidifying his place in Broncos history.
The Future of Broncos Running Backs
The Denver Broncos have a rich tradition of outstanding running backs, and the future looks bright with the current crop of talent. The team continues to draft and develop running backs who possess the skills and determination to carry on the legacy of their predecessors.
With a strong emphasis on a balanced offensive attack, the Broncos' running backs will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the team's future success. Whether it's establishing a dominant rushing attack or providing a reliable outlet for the quarterback, these athletes will continue to leave their mark on the franchise.
Conclusion
The Denver Broncos' running backs have been integral to the team's success, both historically and in the present day. From Hall of Famers like Terrell Davis and Floyd Little to contemporary stars like Clinton Portis, Knowshon Moreno, and C.J. Anderson, these players have showcased exceptional talent and dedication. As the Broncos look to the future, the running back position remains a key component of their offensive strategy, ensuring that the legacy of these great athletes continues to inspire generations of Broncos fans.
Who is the all-time leading rusher for the Denver Broncos?
+
The all-time leading rusher for the Denver Broncos is Terrell Davis, who accumulated 7,607 rushing yards during his career with the team.
How many rushing touchdowns did Floyd Little score with the Broncos?
+
Floyd Little scored a total of 43 rushing touchdowns during his career with the Denver Broncos.
Which running back holds the record for most rushing yards in a single season for the Broncos?
+
The record for most rushing yards in a single season for the Denver Broncos is held by Clinton Portis, who rushed for 1,598 yards in the 2003 season.
How many Pro Bowls has C.J. Anderson been selected to?
+
C.J. Anderson has been selected to one Pro Bowl during his career with the Denver Broncos.
Who was the first running back drafted by the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl era?
+
The first running back drafted by the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl era was Floyd Little, who was selected with the fourth overall pick in the 1967 NFL Draft.
