The Denver Broncos were in the market for a running back near the beginning of training camp. The team signed Theo Riddick after the veteran running back was surprisingly released by the Detroit Lions.
Suddenly, Riddick is expected to be out for six to eight weeks with a shoulder fracture, Mike Klis of 9News reports. Riddick suffered the shoulder fracture during the Broncos preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks.
Fortunately for Denver, Riddick's shoulder won't require surgery and he will return a few weeks into the season. Denver will have to wait a bit longer to see Riddick's debut with the starting offense.
The Broncos added Riddick to provide a receiving threat out of the backfield. With the Lions, Riddick became one of the league's best pass-catchers at the running back position.
Since 2014, Riddick has averaged 56 receptions, 442 yards, and nearly a touchdown per season with the Lions. Vic Fangio and the Broncos are hoping to get similar production from him in their offense.
Without Riddick, Denver already had a crowded backfield with Phillip Lindsay, Royce Freeman, and Devontae Booker. The move for Riddick hurt Booker's chances of remaining with the team beyond this preseason. However, this injury could allow Booker to remain with the team.
Of course, Lindsay will be the lead running back for the Broncos while Royce Freeman shares some of the carries. In 2018, Lindsay became a feel-good story as he was an undrafted rookie who earned his role on the team. Until Riddick returns, Lindsay may be more involved in the passing offense than he was in 2018.
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