Trade Devontae Booker
As we come down to the wire, the Broncos have still yet to commit to one of their RBs as the clear-cut guy. Head Coach Vance Joseph stated recently that, “it’s not a focus of mine right now” when talking about the lead back. Whether it’s truly a focus of Joseph’s or not, he will have to make a decision between Devontae Booker or Royce Freeman. Here are his quotes when talking about the Broncos current running back situation.
“It’s not a focus of mine right now because it’s going to take three guys, it’s going to take four guys. Whoever’s the lead back in the season, to me, is not my focus right now.”
“If we call a power play against Seattle on first-and-10, it’s probably going to be Royce. If we go empty and throw a quick pass, it may be Book. So, who is the lead guy? It doesn’t really matter, but obviously those two guys have been the lead backs for the entire spring really and entire summer.”
From this, it sounds like Joseph is going to give the nod to the rookie (Freeman). The former Oregon Duck easily outperformed Booker in the preseason. It also sounds like they see it as a possibility that they could use both RBs, depending on the situation. This wouldn’t be a bad idea, but they know what they’re getting out of Booker at this point. Freeman has potential.
Booker is a solid RB, but probably shouldn’t be starting anywhere. He can be utilized in the passing game, although he isn’t very talented in that aspect either. In two seasons, Booker has started in 6 games. For the most part, he was the backup to C.J Anderson. In the two years Booker has played, he’s had a fumbling problem, fumbling it six times. This is as a backup running back for the majority of his career as well. There are not many positives when it comes to Booker and his current skill-set.
So with all the information they have, what should Broncos do with Booker? I think a trade would be the best route. It’s only been two years, but you haven’t seen any progress or development in his game. It would be best for Broncos to cut ties with him for what would likely be a sixth or seventh round pick. It’s uncertain if Broncos are willing to give up on him, but I believe it would be in their best interests to move on.
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