In the Broncos’ first game of 2019, running back Khalfani Muhammad led the team with 50 rushing yards and a touchdown, the first score of NFL preseason. After Thursday’s game, some fans in Denver may be asking, “Wait, who is he again?”
Muhammad (5-9, 174 pounds) was selected by the Titans in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL draft out of Cal but he’s technically considered a first-year player because he’s never appeared in a regular season game.
Muhammad has looked good at camp and Broncos coach Vic Fangio knew he was capable of a big game against the Falcons.
“He’s got speed, he is elusive and he’s a tough guy,” Fangio said following a 14-10 win in the Hall of Fame Game. “I’m not surprised by that too much.”
Denver rested their top three running backs — Phillip Lindsay, Royce Freeman and Devontae Booker — which gave Muhammad a chance to impress the team’s coaching staff.
“All I wanted was an opportunity,” Muhammad said. “When I get the opportunity, I’m just going to do me. I’m going to do myself, I’m going to go out there and take advantage of it.”
The Broncos have a crowded backfield (and Theo Riddick is expected to be added to it soon), so Muhammad is a longshot to make the 53-man roster even after his impressive performance in the preseason opener. He could impress other teams during preseason, though, and Denver may offer him a spot on the 10-man practice squad.
Regardless of how the Broncos’ running back room sorts out, Muhammad is confident he will land on his feet.
“I know what I’m capable of doing and that’s all I’m going to do, just do me,” Muhammad said. “I just need the opportunity.”
