Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball has gone from possible Week 1 starter to potentially looking for a job in the coming days.
Ball, for whatever reason, has completely fallen out of favor with Gary Kubiak and his staff. He was the solid No. 2 back after minicamp and OTAs but is now clearly the No. 4 back and maybe even No. 5 if you talk to CSU super fans who still think Kapri Bibbs could make this team. Yes, his production in the preseason hasn’t been good (16 carries, 41 yards) but then again no one on the Broncos offense has looked particularly strong (sans Ronnie Hillman).
So, how’s it all going to end with Ball?
Here are three scenarios for what might go down; ranked from most likely to least likely.
No. 3 — The Broncos cut him
Looks like Montee Ball is in danger of being cut in the next week by Broncos:http://t.co/aPJ292wGLg
— Dennis Krause (@DennisKrause1) August 31, 2015
This has been a popular sentiment the last few days and certainly an idea that’s gaining steam.
But would the Broncos really cut bait with a second round pick (No. 58 overall) after just two years? I’m not buying it.
What hurts even more is who the Broncos could have taken instead. Packers superstar running back Eddie Lacy was there and apparently a consideration. Yikes.
No. 2 — Denver pulls the trigger on a trade
.@VicLombardi says Montee Ball is being shopped. Not a shocker based on playing time, huge shocker based on draft position. Lacy was there.
— Will Petersen (@PetersenWill) September 1, 2015
What real value Ball has at this point is anyone’s guess. Could you get a fourth or fifth round pick from a team desperate for a back? Maybe.
But if you’re going to cut Ball even a seventh rounder at this point would be something to show for it.
CBS4‘s Vic Lombardi said on his sportscast last night this is a real option.
Something could very well happen on the trade front in the next 72 hours or so.
No. 1 — He makes the team, but doesn’t have a huge role
If Montee Ball makes the team over Juwan Thompson it will be a travesty. Juwan has so much more upside. #Broncos
— Mat Smith (@RealMatSmith) August 30, 2015
I got good news for you Mat, Ball certainly isn’t going to make this team and in the process steal Thompson’s spot.
The Broncos like Thompson and he’s a lock to make the squad. One of Thompson’s teammates in 2015? Montee Ball.
Yes, the third-year back from Wisconsin securing a roster spot is still the most likely outcome.
How much he plays or contributes in 2015 is anyone’s guess, but the odds are he is on the final 53.