Schlereth: Jamaal Charles could be ‘difference maker’ for Broncos
Jul 24, 2017, 8:48 AM
At 100 percent healthy and in his prime, Denver Broncos free agency pick up Jamaal Charles was earning first-team All-Pros and Pro Bowls while running all over his new squad, and the NFL, as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Before swapping AFC West rosters, the Chiefs release Charles after the franchise-leader in rushing yards missed much of the 2015 season with a torn ACL in his right knee and played in just three games last season.
But if Charles can even perform at 75-80 percent of his past Kansas City self, “Schlereth & Evans” co-host Mark Schlereth believes the veteran running back can be a “difference maker” for the Broncos offense.
“Obviously, you have got to stay healthy, but I have great hope for him as a Bronco. I really do,” Schlereth said Thursday. “I really think he could be a difference maker in this offense.”
During OTAs in early June, Charles mentioned twice during his first press conference as a member of the Broncos that he was “fired” by the Chiefs and wanted to show that he’s still “at the top” of his career.
At the time, Denver 7 Broncos Insider Troy Renck said Charles was “eager” and “motivated” to not only prove the Chiefs wrong but also be more than a contributor for Denver.
“Why would I not think I’m going to be the man?” Charles said. “… My whole life, I’ve always felt like I’m going to the be the man. That is what I want to come up in here. If I’m not going to be the man, why am I here? I should be at home sitting on the couch.”
Schlereth said he envisions Charles getting roughly 15-plus touches per game in Denver, playing between 20 and 30 plays.
And if he’s right physically, Charles is “one of the most complete football players in the league,” Schlereth said.
I know when Jamaal Charles was healthy, he was one of my favorite players in the league. And he was one of the most complete — forget about position — in my mind one of the most complete football players in the league,” Schlereth said.
“I think he’s smart. I think he understands the game. He’s a great blitz pick up guy. He’ll hurt you. (He can) catch the ball out of the backfield and run it between the tackles. (He) has the speed to break it long. I mean, all those things. I loved him.”
Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.
