Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson reported to the team’s organized activities weighing in at 221 pounds. This is down from the 243 pounds he topped in at last season.
The drop in weight probably has everything to do with former Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase claiming that Anderson “was a little chubby sometimes” when he observed him playing last season (via ESPN.com).
Gase, who is now the offensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears, made that reference to Anderson when comparing him to running back Matt Forte.
Anderson doesn’t seem to be offended by Gase’s comments. Instead, he would rather use his weight loss to better himself:
“I am taking this to the next level,” Anderson said, via the Denver Post. “Everybody — fans, media, coaches — has this huge expectation of me. And I have huge expectations of myself. My motto this year is: ‘Prove everybody right.’”
Now working under head coach Gary Kubiak’s scheme, Anderson should flourish in his role. The likes of Justin Forsett and Arian Foster have had a ton of success in Kubiak’s system in the past.
Kubiak already claimed that he witnessed “flashes” of Anderson being capable as an every-down running back for his offense. Even at a heftier weight, Anderson was a force this past season. He tallied 1,173 yards and 10 scores during a breakout campaign.
Providing he retains his starting role in Denver, Anderson should tear up the field this season. That’s magnified by the fact that he’s in the best shape of his career.
Photo: USA Today Sports