On Tuesday, the Denver Broncos were hard at work at Dove Valley, preparing for the 2017 season, using the offseason program to learn a new playbook, adjust to a new coach and many new staff members. For running back Jamaal Charles, he is also adjusting to a new city, which he admits will take some getting used to.
“It feels weird coming to work, putting another jersey on. It definitely feels weird, but it’s exciting weird,” Charles said (via DenverBroncos.com). “I’m excited about the new chapter. I’m excited about what’s ahead of me, and we’ll go from there.”
Charles signed a one-year contract with the Broncos last week. The 30-year-old spent the first nine seasons of his career with the division rival Kansas City Chiefs. Like the rest of the offense, he will be learning a new system, but it is not something that he is concerned with.
“The playbook is going to be easy,” Charles said. “I’ve been in five different systems. I like it, too. [Offensive coordinator] Mike McCoy, he’s got a great offensive playbook.”
Tuesday afternoon saw Charles and 13 of his Broncos teammates volunteer their time to provide instruction to 100 Special Olympics athletes as part of the Broncos’ Play 60 All-Ability Clinic. A former gold medalist in the Special Olympics in track and field, staying involved in the program is something that Charles places a lot of value in.
“It means a lot to me, being a part of this, and trying just to inspire kids, to show them, ‘Don’t give up,’ because sometimes in this position, we give up,” Charles said. “These kids right here, they’ve got bright hearts, and I want to put it in their hearts to keep on being strong and motivating them to be successful in life.”
Image credit: Aric DiLalla, DenverBroncos.com