Former Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles is scheduled to visit the Broncos on Tuesday, sources tell ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter (on Twitter). The Broncos are “enthused” about the forthcoming meeting, Schefter adds.
The Chiefs cut Charles after nine seasons with the team in a money-saving move, but he could make his next home with a division rival. The Broncos are currently set to go into the season with C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker, and Juwan Thompson as their running backs and they could use some additional help after losing Kapri Bibbs to free agency. Charles can’t be counted on for 20+ carries, but he could be a quality complementary piece for a team like Denver.
The two-time first-team All-Pro is entering his age-30 season and it’s not clear what he has left at this stage of his career after two injury-marred campaigns. Charles’ last healthy season came in 2014 and he was less than stellar, though his struggles could be chalked up to a poor offensive line in Kansas City. In 2013, Charles amassed a career-high 1,980 yards from scrimmage and scored 19 touchdowns.
To say 2014 was a disappointment is irresponsible writing. 5.0 ypc on 200 attempts as well as 40 catches for 300+ yards is a product of managing a players health over the course of a season and playoff run. 14 TDs as well in a disappointing 2014…
If it’s a reasonable cost, something like one year, $1.5M or less, I hope it works out. Charles is excellent at picking up rushers, and McCoy operates at ~70% out of the shotgun with any QB not named Tim Tebow.
With Anderson, Booker, and Henderson/Pierce, Charles wouldn’t be asked to do too much on the ground, either.