Boone could play key part in Broncos running game

Instead of the one-two punch of Melvin Gordon III and Javonte Williams, the Broncos running game may be more of a triple threat

BY JOHNNY HART

Jun 16, 2021, 8:32 PM Updated: 9:55 pm

Follow on Google News

Watch: A Backup QB Battle, Bo Nix And The Broncos Get Used To Davis Webb, And Could Taysom Hill Be Denver-Bound - Three Big Things From Broncos Training Camp | 14 mins

The competition at the top of Denver’s running back depth chart has caught the attention of many in Broncos Country, especially over recent days.

Can veteran running back Melvin Gordon III fend off rookie Javonte Williams for the RB1 spot for the Broncos? No doubt the competition will be among the training camp battles to watch.

But a third name — Mike Boone — might be in the mix to make a large contribution to the Broncos running game as well.

“Booney” — as head coach Vic Fangio affectionately referred to Boone on both days of minicamp thus far — has seemingly been flying under the radar to everyone except his teammates and coaches.

“Mike (Boone) has really impressed me,” said quarterback Drew Lock on Tuesday.

And Lock’s not the only one. DenverFan.com’s Cecil Lammey also touted how Boone has performed through two days of minicamp, calling him “decisive” and hard working.

Forgot to mention this yesterday but MIKE BOONE looked really good with limited opportunities. He is one of those players who could thrive with a larger role. #Broncos @1043TheFan nice speed. Decisive. Good balance and hard worker.

— Cecil Lammey (@CecilLammey) June 16, 2021

Lammey’s comments echo those of Fangio, who also lauded Boone on Wednesday.

“He’s quick. He’s decisive. He can run. He’s a great guy, great teammate, works hard,” Fangio said. “Obviously (general manager) George (Paton) knew him well from Minnesota. He has not disappointed in any way. Really happy we have him.

“I think he’s a very capable running back. We think he’ll make a strong contribution to the special teams. Really, really happy to have him; he’s solid.”

Boone played three seasons (2018-’20) in Minnesota under Paton, then the Vikings assistant general manager. During his tenure he made two starts in 40 games, rushing for 379 yards and four touchdowns on 71 carries.

Like his current situation, Boone played behind a top-tier NFL running back, Dalvin Cook, with the Vikings. But that didn’t stop the running back from being productive when he was on the field, Paton said in March.

“He was playing behind Dalvin Cook, so he didn’t have a lot of opportunity, but when he did have the opportunity, he really produced,” Paton said. “I think he’s going to help our room. He’s going to add some special teams to the offensive side of the ball, which we lack.

“I’m really excited to have Mike Boone here.”