Throughout training camp and the preseason, Denver Broncos rookie running back Royce Freeman has made a strong impression on the coaching staff.

According to Ryan O'Halloran of The Denver Post, Freeman's play this offseason earned him the starting job outright to begin the 2018 season ahead of DeVontae Booker.

The Broncos’ first regular season depth chart will be revealed later today and a source told The Denver Post that rookie running back Royce Freeman will be the starter.

This is an encouraging sign for what may lie ahead for Freeman, as he has proved in his brief time with the franchise that he can be a high-impact player when given the opportunity to showcase his ability. In his brief action this preseason, Freeman was a highly effective runner, posting 84 rushing yards on 15 carries with three touchdowns.

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Freeman will get the chance to prove what he can bring to the table to begin the 2018 season with the starting job. If he can handle that huge responsibility, his grasp on the position will get even tighter over Booker.

However, Booker will likely still factor into the equation in a split-carry role to begin the year until Freeman demonstrates that he should be the clear-cut answer out of the backfield. This may require Booker to be a bigger factor in the passing game, as he made just one reception for six yards in the preseason.

In the meantime, Freeman has a chance to secure a major role in the offense to begin his rookie campaign.