Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson spent his rookie season buried on the depth chart, seeing action in just four games and totaling 38 yards on seven carries. But with the departure of Knowshon Moreno in free agency this offseason some reshuffling is coming, and Anderson is expected to compete with Ronnie Hillman to be Montee Ball’s primary backup this year.
Positives
Anderson finished last season ahead of Hillman in the running back pecking order, so he has to be considered the front runner to be No. 2 on the depth chart right now. The prospect of a more prominent role in one of the leagues top offenses is good news.
Ball had 559 rushing yards (4.7 yards per carry) and four touchdowns along with 20 catches as Denver’s No. 2 running back last year. Similar production, in perhaps a fairly similar role, could be expected for Anderson this year.
Negatives
Ball is younger than Moreno, and I would say more talented, so if he can handle a three-down, workhorse role for Denver there may not be many opportunities for anyone else. Hillman is still in the mix for the job as Ball’s backup, and if he can put his fumble issues behind him he may be able to beat out Anderson based on talent level.
Final Verdict
Anderson has some appeal as a sneaky stash in deep dynasty leagues, and even that may require him landing on a new team to bear fruit. Anderson’s appeal as a handcuff to Ball is mostly dependent on your league size, but also your personal feelings about handcuffs when it comes time to think about using a final auction dollar or final draft pick on one.
Bye Week: Week 4
Projected Round: 15th Round
Auction Value: $1
Brad Berreman is a Senior Writer at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter or connect on Google +.
