Denver Broncos Offense To Get a Boost on Day One of Draft?

Despite my report earlier today that Denver will focus on defense early on in the draft, I feel compelled to clear the air on this situation. 

I do not feel the Broncos will be addressing the quarterback position in the first round of the draft, but it is very much a possibility that they will go after one of the elite running backs in this class with one of their two first round selections.

It was reported by ProFootballTalk.com a couple of days ago that the Broncos were planning to hold a private workout with Georgia running back Knowshon Moreno, and the Carroll County Times reports that Ohio State runner Chris Wells has visited with Denver as well.

Denver's roster is already chock full of backs, including three new free agent acquisitions: Correll Buckhalter, LaMont Jordan, and J.J. Arrington. 

Buckhalter has had injury problems in his career, and is largely considered to be a backup at the very best, although he does have good pass receiving ability.

Jordan could convert to fullback or serve mainly as the team's goal line back, while Arrington will come in on third down situations, as well as contribute on special teams.

Holdovers Selvin Young and Ryan Torain will compete for the last running back spot on the roster, as Peyton Hillis seems to have a spot locked up as a fullback at the very least.

With two first round picks in the up-coming draft, the Broncos can erase any question marks they may have on offense by adding an elite running back.  Back when they only had one pick, it seemed ridiculous that they would even consider this, but the 18th pick gives Denver much more flexibility. 

For instance, in round one, they could go with Wells/Moreno and a guy like Brian Cushing at 18, then in round two take a defensive lineman like Jarron Gilbert out of San Jose State.

Impact of Wells/Moreno

If recent history is any indication, the Denver Broncos would be very wise to add a rookie running back to possibly be the feature player in their new offense.  Chris Johnson, Steve Slaton, Tim Hightower, and Darren McFadden all made great impacts on their respective teams in their freshman campaigns.

Chris Wells has been compared to Adrian Peterson due to his massive size (6'2" 235), ability to run people over, deceptive speed, and back vision. 

Knowshon Moreno has been a dominant college player over the last three years in arguably the best defensive conference in the nation.  He has clearly added muscle to his former 207 pound frame, and is now pushing 220 pounds.  He is a great receiver and has elite speed.

If I had to pick between the two, I'd say Wells' power style is a better fit for Denver, but Moreno is a playmaker in his own right.  It would definitely be a tough decision.

Again, Denver has too many options to count with these two picks on draft day.  This is a very deep draft at the top end, and the Broncos will take advantage.  The quarterback situation in Denver is set as of now, and the Broncos would do well to add an elite prospect on both offense and defense.