AP

When discussing running back Matt Forte’s ability to play on all three downs, Bears offensive coordinator Adam Gase made an unflattering reference to Broncos running back C.J. Anderson.

Gase said that Anderson would tire quickly during the 2014 season and “was a little chubby sometimes.” Anderson is out to avoid any similar descriptions in the future.

Anderson reported to OTAs at 221 pounds, down sharply from the 243 pounds he carried at this time last year and part of his plan to keep rising after a breakout season last year.

“I am taking this to the next level,” Anderson said, via the Denver Post. “Everybody — fans, media, coaches — has this huge expectation of me. And I have huge expectations of myself. My motto this year is: ‘Prove everybody right.'”

Running backs that have thrived playing for Broncos coach Gary Kubiak in Denver, Houston and Baltimore over the years and Anderson is positioning himself for an opportunity to do the same. Kubiak said that Anderson’s shown “flashes” of being an every-down back in his offense, which could mean a fatter role for the slimmer Anderson.