Praise for Lindsay:
Veteran LB Marshall says rookie will be third-down back. »
The first day of Broncos training camp concluded Saturday with most players and coaches in the locker room when veteran linebacker Brandon Marshall and rookie tailback Phillip Lindsay lingered together on the grass.
They exchanged turns breaking down mechanics of a juke move. Lindsay jabbed his feet. Marshall shifted his hips. Each stopped, discussed, and went at it again while reporters looked on.
“He beat me on a move today and got me for a touchdown, so I was just talking technique,” Marshall explained. “It’s two teammates helping each other out.”
Here’s the kicker: Denver’s tailback depth chart is up for grabs, but if the season were to start tomorrow, Marshall has a pick for his runner of choice during critical down-and-distances. Neither two returning players. Not the pair of 2018 draft picks, either. It’s the undrafted free agent and Colorado Buffaloes legend — Lindsay.
“I think he’s going to be our third-down back,” Marshall said.
Marshall clarified that’s no shot at other tailbacks on the roster, notably Devontae Booker, a thirdyear pro Marshall described as “a good route runner” with a shot to win the role as well. Marshall’s extra praise for Lindsay is simply merit based for his performance through the Broncos’ offseason program.
“The guy has all the moves,” Marshall said. “I noticed that in OTAS. He’s quick.”
Added linebacker Von Miller: “We’re definitely gonna have some things planned for Phillip. Guys like that in the league, you just can’t cover them. They’re just assets to the offense. You have to have a back like that and we definitely have one.”
Lindsay, 5-foot-8, 190 pounds, displayed versatility Saturday appearing at punt return, in the backfield, split out at receiver and often in pre-snap motion. Breaking Marshall’s ankles for a 50-yard touchdown reception was a highlight among the most buzz-worthy performances to start training camp.
“We were all surprised he didn’t go the the combine, and obviously signing him as a free agent was tough because we drafted two backs,” coach Vance Joseph said. “We pursued him heavy and he stayed home.”
Lindsay’s NFL teammates are glad he’s rooted in Broncos Country.
“He’s going to be a hell of a player,” Marshall said.