Denver Broncos 2008 Rookies Making Strong Case for Best NFL Rookie Class Ever

Whether it was the electrifying running of Titans running back Chris Johnson, the powerful tackling of Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo, or the leadership and poise of Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, 2008 has definitely been the year of the rookie.

One team that has relied on its rookie class more than any other has been the Denver Broncos, who typically don't like to force the game on their rookies as much.

After a barrage of injuries, the Broncos have been forced to grade their freshman class quicker than expected, and it has passed with flying colors. Here's a look at this fabulous group of youngsters (in alphabetical order), which includes 14 different players who have significantly impacted the team.

Running Back Anthony Alridge, Houston (Undrafted Rookie Free Agent)

Alridge would have made Denver's active roster at some point this season what with all of seven running backs being send to injured reserve, however, the team did not feel he would pass waivers if they tried to add him to their practice squad, so Denver placed him on the injured reserve. 

The former Houston star made his best impression on the Broncos in the last preseason game against Arizona. Alridge totalled 123 yards from scrimmage, helping Denver to a victory in its final preseason game.

Anthony will undoubtedly be with the team next summer at Training Camp, battling for the starting running back position. Don't want to take my word for it? Check out some of these highlights from his big day in Arizona.

http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80a62f7f

Safety Josh Barrett, Arizona State  (7th round, 220th overall)

Many of you know Barrett from his impressive showing at the NFL Scouting Combine where he recorded a 4.34 40-yard dash time. That speed combined with his impressive 6'2" 220 pound frame made NFL scouts salivate. However, Barrett had some trouble in college with his effort, and his starting job was taken away midseason.

Barrett was on Denver's practice squad for most of the season until a slew of injuries at safety prompted the Broncos to promote him.

Not only was he promoted, one week later he was given the starting job. In five games this season, Barrett has recorded 16 tackles, four passes defensed, and an interception. 

Cornerback Josh Bell, Baylor (Undrafted Rookie Free Agent)

Josh Bell virtually came out of nowhere for the Broncos. After Champ Bailey suffered an injury against the New England Patriots, Bell was promoted from Denver's practice squad. 

Interestingly enough, the Broncos claimed Bell off of waivers at the beginning of the season from the San Diego Chargers, who are 31st in pass defense.

With Karl Paymah and Jack Williams already waiting in the wings, it was apparent that Bell was only going to provide depth to the Broncos secondary.

Not so fast.

This unheralded rookie out of Baylor was thrust into a starters role the week after he was promoted, and he has thrived in that role.

Bell has 31 tackles in eight games this season, and also has four passes defensed.

Now that Bailey is back in the rotation, Bell is serving as the nickel cornerback, and is doing it very effectively.

Running Back Cory Boyd, South Carolina (Acquired off waivers, drafted by Tampa Bay 7th round, 238th overall)

Boyd has yet to make his mark with the Broncos, but that time could come sooner rather than later. 

Recently promoted to the active roster, this former South Carolina star looks to have a big game against division rival San Diego on Sunday.

Left Tackle Ryan Clady, Boise State (1st round, 12th overall)

What can truly be said about Ryan Clady? This kid has been flat out unbelievable, exceeding expectations left and right.

Clady was named the starting left tackle shortly after being drafted, and has not disappointed. He has shut down the likes of John Abraham, Joey Porter, Tamba Hali, Will Smith, and Julius Peppers, who was actually moved to the other side because he couldn't get any pressure on Clady!

Clady has yet to allow a full sack this season, an accomplishment that has got to be some sort of record for a rookie.

Fullback/Running Back Peyton Hillis, Arkansas (7th round, 227th overall)

Peyton Hillis was widely considered the best fullback available in the draft. Little did we know he could be one of the toughest runners in the league.

The Broncos snared Hillis up in the seventh round with a pick they acquired from Tampa Bay in exchange for Jake Plummer.

Starting the season as the fullback for the Broncos, Hillis was thrust into the running back role halfway through the Cleveland game. Since he didn't really know all of the running back duties, he was limited in carries that game.

In six starts this season, Hillis has accumulated 536 yards from scrimmage, and six total touchdowns.

Despite being hidden from the shadows of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones in college at Arkansas, Hillis has been the best of the bunch so far in the NFL.

Punter Brett Kern, Toledo (Undrafted Rookie Free Agent)

After being signed as an undrafted free agent out of Toledo, Brett Kern has grown into one of the more promising young punters in the NFL.

In only his first pro season, he is already sixth in punting average with 47 yards per boot.

Linebacker/Fullback Spencer Larsen, Arizona (6th round, 183rd overall)

In a game against the Atlanta Falcons on Nov. 16, Larsen became the first player since 2003 to start on both sides of the ball, and the first ever to start the game on offense, defense, and special teams. He was awarded Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Week for his efforts against Atlanta.

In addition to his versatility, Larsen actually boasts a bit of talent. YouTube this guy, and you will see a slew of hits that are bone crushing, and you may even find yourself getting goosebumps.

Offensive Lineman Kory Lichtensteiger, Bowling Green State (4th round, 108th overall)

Lichtensteiger has really made his mark near the goal line for the Broncos, coming in as an extra tight end or fullback in short yardage situations.

He has helped pave the way for numerous Michael Pittman and Hillis Denver touchdowns.

Wide Receiver Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech (2nd round, 42nd overall)

Royal has been an outstanding addition to this potent Denver offense.

After a great showing at the Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine, Royal really opened the eyes of NFL scouts.

Denver took a shot at him, and he has been outstanding since the day he set foot on the practice field. 

He currently leads all rookie receivers with 80 receptions, 904 yards, and five touchdowns. Royal also leads rookie receivers in rushing with 109 yards on 11 carries, 600 kick return yards, and has also added 140 yards on punt returns.

Running Back Ryan Torain, Arizona State (5th round, 139th overall)

Torain has had lofty expectations since joining the Broncos, as Head Coach Mike Shanahan compared him to Terrell Davis in the early goings of training camp.

After an ankle injury kept him out until the Cleveland game, Torain proved those comparisons to be correct.

In his only career start, Torain toted the ball 12 times for 68 yards and a touchdown.  That was in the middle of the second quarter, where he suffered a torn ACL. 

The rookie back looks to return to action and compete for a starting job next summer.

Cornerback Jack Williams, Kent State (4th round, 119th overall)

Williams has been a nice addition to the Broncos on defense and on special teams.

In the preseason, he had two interceptions, one that was returned 89 yards for a touchdown.

So far this season, he has 13 tackles on defense, and has played well in the absence of Champ Bailey.

With speed to burn and ball skills that rival any, this youngster has a promising future here in Denver.

Linebacker Wesley Woodyard, Kentucky (Undrafted Rookie Free Agent)

Woodyard has been an absolute terror for opposing teams. He has a nose for the football, and continues to improve game in and game out on his craft.

Nobody can quite figure out why this player went undrafted, but there is no doubt about his talent.

After a stellar career at Kentucky, Woodyard has emerged on to the NFL scene as one of the most explosive rookie linebackers, totalling 53 tackles and a pass defensed in only six starts.

Wesley has also made an impact on special teams for the Broncos.

No matter what the outcome of the game on Sunday against San Diego, there is no doubt that the future is bright in the Rocky Mountains.