Royce Freeman was expected to be a factor in the Denver Broncos running game when they used their third round pick to select him in the 2018 NFL draft.

The Broncos released their leading rusher - C.J. Anderson - from the 2017 season, leaving the Broncos without a feature running back for the 2018 season. Devontae Booker, the team's second-leading rusher in 2017, is assumed to be the starter in 2018, but Freeman is expected to compete for the starting running back spot.

When asked if Freeman could be the Broncos lead back, Denver coach Vance Joseph said "absolutely," according to espn.com.

Freeman ran for at least 1,300 yards during three of his four seasons at Oregon, and he posted 975 yards in 11 games during an injury-plagued season in 2016. He finished with 5,621 yards and 60 touchdowns during his college career. Freeman also caught 79 passes for 814 yards and four receiving touchdowns while with the Ducks.

"I think I showed durability and the ability to be there game in, game out," Freeman told espn.com. "I think I showed at Oregon I can deliver the blow as a runner. I'm excited to compete, and we have a good environment in the running back room."

If Freeman can come close or better than his production at Oregon during training camp and preseason, he'll emerge as the starter for the Broncos.

-- Geoffrey C. Arnold | @geoffreyCarnold