Some like the move, others are puzzled by it. With the signing of LenDale White to a two-year contract, the Denver Broncos take an interesting route to increase their depth at running back after Correll Buckhalter (back) and Knowshon Moreno (hamstring) were injured on the first day of training camp. Judging from the photo, LenDale (No. 26) looks to be in shape. Ironically, White will miss the first 4 games of the season after violating the NFL's substance- abuse policy. Additionally, LenDale is a native of Denver, so he coming back home to play for his hometown team.
This move comes as odd to many after Coach Josh McDaniels has made it his mission to bring in players with high character, it seems that he's willing to offer second chances. "We're going to judge him and make our judgments on LenDale White going forward as a Denver Bronco. Everybody makes mistakes," said McDaniels after practice on Wednesday evening. So, is this a marriage of situation or desperation?
I say it is situation, not desperation. Coach McDaniels is looking for individuals who are ready work and put team first. LenDale has gone through some serious adversity in recent months and found out it can be taken away from you as quickly as you get it. McDaniels described him as "humble person now." That is key to understanding the reason for the move. LenDale has the talent and skills to give Denver a solid rushing game. When Buckhalter and Moreno come back, this trio could truly balance out Denver's offense play calling. Injuries are a part of the game and you can not depend solely on your starters to have a success season.
LenDale is coming back home after walking through the valley of trouble and confusion. He like a "Prodigal Son" and hopefully with the Denver Broncos, he can find a place to enjoy being a part of the NFL in his hometown. Time will truly tell if this "Mile High" pickup pays off.
I like the move for two reasons.
ReplyDeleteThe first is the immediate impact. With Moreno and Buckhalter out, there needs to be a quality player to take snaps so that the o-line and the defense can get used to playing with and against that level of talent.
The second is the long term reasons. Moreno has to come through for this team and it has to happen quickly. Bringing in a RB of White's caliber pushes Moreno to play harder and learn faster. He now has someone that will constantly be at his heels pushing for his spot in the line up.
Also, the 4 game suspension actually HELPS! It means that Moreno has 4 games to establish himself as the team's primary RB. If he isn't able to impress McDaniels during that time, then you see a RB competition emerge during the season.
Lendale is still a very serviceable RB. He's not a scrub at all, he only looked like one when standing next to CJ2K. Good pickup for them though, I think better than going back for Westbrook.
ReplyDeleteI agree. With all the injury concerns (Westbrook has never played a full NFL season) he just doesn't make sense when you need a starter. Can still be a great receiving back out of the backfield, but that's about where it ends. Lendale White just offers more right now.
ReplyDeleteGreat observations! LenDale will push Moreno and help the team short-term with regards to practicing with quality running back in training camp. I think it makes sense.
ReplyDeletegreat poat ! white is not only going to push for time i beleive if moreno falters an inch white will be the man in denver ! great pick up den !
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