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ADAMS: Would Shaun Alexander be a good fit for the Broncos?

By Sam Adams, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published August 19, 2008 at 2:47 p.m.
Updated August 19, 2008 at 2:47 p.m.

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The Broncos believed that rookie Ryan Torain would win the starting job. Torain, however, is out three months with an elbow injury. That leaves Selvin "Mr. 2000" Young and Andre "Chess King" Hall as the Broncos' top two backs.

You cool with those two, Bronco Fan? Well, here's a thought. Take a chance on free agent Shaun Alexander. Give him an incentive-laced contract that pays a minimum base salary and see how he performs. Reports indicate Alexander has been staying in shape, sitting around waiting for a call.

Neither Young nor Hall have the size or experience expected of an every-down back. Sure, they could split carries. But the Broncos believe Torain has the size and ability to carry the load.

Michael Pittman? What about him?

The Broncos didn't bring Pittman in to be a 1,000-yard rusher. They brought him in to compete for a roster spot. Pittman does a little bit of everything -- run, block, and most important, catch out of the backfield. He has that veteran pro's-pro attitude thing going. It plays well around the younger players and you want that in the locker room -- especially during training camp. Yes, he's had off-field issues, but on the field Pittman is well-respected by teammates.

Besides, who wants to get clobbered by some dude with biceps that would bring the Incredible Hulk to his knees?

So back to Alexander. When he was hungry for a raise three years ago Alexander ran for nearly 1,900 yards and 27 touchdowns with Seattle. Well, he's unemployed, so Alexander ought to be hungry again -- about as hungry as you can be after being cut from a contract that was worth $62 million.

You bring Alexander in, see what he has, give him the minimum and hope for the best. If it doesn't work out, you cut him (see Simeon Rice, 2007) and take your chance with Young and Hall.

OK, so it's your turn on the mic. Is Shaun Alexander worth the Broncos' time and money?

Click here to join the discussion on the story in Open Mic at Sam Adams' Sports Talk blog.