Broncos select running back Devontae Booker in the fourth round

ENGLEWOOD, Co – The Denver Broncos have selected running back Devontae Booker out of Utah with the 136th overall pick in the NFL Draft.

Booker, coming off an knee injury that required surgery to his meniscus, was once valued as one of the top running backs in the draft before the injury. A first-team all-Pac 12 performer in 2014 and a second-teamer in 2015 despite the injury, Booker rushed for over 1,000 yards in both of his seasons at Utah (2,773 total yards). His career yards per game (120.6) is the best all-time at Utah. His 2,773 career yards are good enough for third in Utah history which is especially impressive given that he was only a two-year JUCO transfer, oh and he only played nine games in 2015.

On a conference call with media shortly after his selection to the Broncos, Booker said his knee recovery is coming along and is at “about 90-percent.”

He also noted he’s willing to do whatever he can to help the team.

“I feel like I can play special teams, I did it freshman year in college,” he said. “They took me off of it based on the way I was used at Utah. I can do special teams, I’m all for it. Whatever they need me to do to help the team win, I’m all in for it.”

Booker feels the injury was likely the reason he fell in the draft but now he gets a chance to play for the Super Bowl champions.

“All things happen for a reason,” he said. “I’m thankful for Denver to pick me up in the draft and I’m ready to come in and work.”

NFL.com lists Booker’s strengths as follows:

 Patient runner but decisive when he sees the crease. Hits it through the crease with determination. Flashes above-average feel for the way running lanes shift and change, and he flows with it making the smart choices to avoid tacklers and extend runs. Features excellent vision. Doesn’t get caught dancing very often and usually ends the run on his terms with low pads and forward lean. Can maintain play speed when changing direction and cutting. Has crisp footwork approaching the line of scrimmage and can dodge and dart around penetration to create yardage opportunities. Elusive second-level runner able to string together a slew of moves in succession. Effective pass catcher with soft hands. Rarely leaves the field. Dependable short yardage back in college. Willing to step up and do his part in pass protection.