Even though he didn’t play much, Boone said he feels he has been able to learn from Cook and the other running backs and improve over the years.
Now, when joining the Broncos, Boone sees a chance to continue his game efficiently and effectively in an attack for which he feels well prepared.
“I like to consider myself a cut back,” said Boone. “I like to make my cuts and then go down. I feel like this fits the scheme of this attack and I feel like I can be versatile and come in and make the attack a little more explosive whenever my number is called.”
In addition to his skills as a ball carrier off the field, Boone spoke of the importance of the other parts of his skill set. He said that pass protection is “extremely vital” and noted that he is a capable receiver after playing wideout during his high school years. He started running back only after entering college.
“I feel that it helped me and allowed me to be able to route out of defense and win fights against linebackers whenever I’m playing away or in the slot,” said Boone.
In Denver, Boone can see more action off the field. Behind holder Melvin Gordon III of 2020, the Broncos has three-year veteran Royce Freeman and younger players in LeVante Bellamy, Damarea Crockett and Jeremy Cox. In addition to Gordon, there must be an open competition for the second role.
At this point, however, Boone said he is not concerned about this. His concern is only with the things he can control, such as his effort and dedication.
“I’m coming in and I’m here to do whatever the organization asks me to do,” said Boone. “Let this be number 2 [running back role], special teams – wherever they see me fit, I’m excited and will do my best for that. “
This willingness to play and stand out on special teams helped him win his spot with the Vikings. Even though he played little in the attack in Minnesota, Boone played more than half of the Vikings’ special teams in each of the past two seasons. Boone received NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors after forcing a fumble against the Texans in Week 4.
The Broncos can also benefit from Boone’s skills in the third phase of the game.
“He played in four stages on special teams and is one of the best players on the Vikings’ special teams,” said Paton. “… I think he will help our room, he will add some special teams to the offensive side of the ball, which we don’t have. And I am very excited to have Mike Boone here.”