Daily Mail - Denver's unsettled backfield

[evil disco man]

Q: Which Denver running back will most likely take over the starting role vacated by Clinton Portis?

Bryan N.
Philadelphia

A: It's tough to say right now because the Broncos have about 43 players who could fill that hole. OK, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit, but there are way too many people competing for that role for owners to feel safe with one as a fantasy starter.

Quentin Griffin and Mike Anderson are the frontrunners entering camp. I would give Griffin the edge because the team can always use Anderson at fullback. Besides, Griffin ran well during his replacement stints for Portis last season. Rookie Tatum Bell or newcomer Garrison Hearst also could start. Bell seemed to be the early favorite, but his performance at the team's minicamps was disappointing. Hearst probably can't carry a full load at his age. Remember, he was splitting time with Kevan Barlow the past few seasons.

The team would prefer to avoid a committee, but that approach could be inevitable. Even if the team settles on one guy heading into the season, don't expect the situation to be settled for good. One poor performance and the job will be up for grabs again.

Rob Hurtt - SportingNews.com