Each NFL team’s biggest breakout candidate
By Conor Dorney
Denver Broncos – Royce Freeman
No team seems as poised to go from worst-to-first in 2018 as the Denver Broncos, as the team possesses a wealth of talent on both sides of the ball. And for an organization that has made a habit of churning out 1,000-yard rushers on offense, 2018 third-rounder Royce Freeman could be next in line to make that impact for the Denver offense.
In a draft that boasted a wealth of talent at the running back position, Freeman, the former Oregon Ducks star, seemed to get lost in the shuffle. As a result, he slid to the early part of the third round, where the Broncos were wise to snatch him up.
Freeman did nothing but churn up yards and touchdowns during his time in college, finishing his career as Oregon’s all-time leading rusher with a whopping 5,620 yards and 60 touchdowns. Freeman is an outstanding athlete who utilizies patience and vision in the backfield, while also having the size to run in between the tackles and gain yards after contact.
While the amount of wear already on Freeman’s tires is certainly a long-term concern, the Broncos should have a solid rotation to spell him when necessary with Devontae Booker and De’Angelo Henderson already in the fold. If all goes according to plan, however, Freeman could undoubtedly see himself in the AFC Offensive Rookie of the Year discussion by the end of the season.