Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson enters the 2017 season coming off an injury-shortened season. Anderson’s torn meniscus in Week 7 forced him to miss the remainder of a disappointing season in Denver. This offseason, Anderson’s training regime has allowed him to rehab his knee while increasing strength and endurance.
Anderson explained how his advanced fitness is affecting his mindset after the first practice of training camp on Thursday.
“I’m definitely in the best shape I’ve been in in a very long time, so I’m excited about that,” Anderson said. “I think I did some things this offseason that were introduced to me, and whether I liked it or didn’t like it, I just kept going with it and kept pushing. I didn’t do something for two weeks and then stop. I just kept going with it throughout the entire offseason.”
After his Pro Bowl 2014 campaign, Anderson’s inability to stay healthy has prevented him from returning to that level of production. He played through toe and ankle injuries in 2015 before suffering the major knee injury last season. For Anderson, getting back on the field, and being healthy, is something he has looked forward to for months.
“It feels good to be back. I’ll feel even better on Sunday when we’re putting on pads,” Anderson said. “I can’t wait until Sunday to be honest with you. I haven’t put on pads since October. I just feel good to be back. I get the energy from the fans and I’m back out here with the guys. I haven’t practiced in a very long time, so it just felt good to get out here and run around.”
Though it may be difficult to envision, the Broncos are not far removed from a team that led the NFL in points scored and yards gained. While Anderson did not play much with that 2013 team, he has not forgotten what it feels like to be part of an explosive offense. In returning to that form, Anderson understands what the offense’s role is.
“We just have to make plays. Our job is to get first downs and touchdowns,” Anderson said. “It wasn’t long ago when we were putting up 50 points and the defense was what they were. Now, the roles are switched. All we can do is focus on what we do every day and that starts in practice.”