It would be fair to say that Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson, an undrafted free agent in 2013 who rushed for 849 yards on a 4.7 yards per carry average with eight touchdowns and 34 receptions this past season, has already "broken out." But next season could be even better for the 23-year-old.
Injuries to Montee Ball and Ronnie Hillman opened the door to more playing time for Anderson, and he took full advantage of it. Anderson received 13 or more carries in every game, starting with week 12. He finished the season as Denver's lead back and is in line for an increased workload in 2015. But what really has Anderson - and fantasy owners - excited is Denver's hire of Gary Kubiak as their new head coach.
"I have known about his system for a while, and what he accomplished," Anderson said, via the Denver Post. "One cut downhill and go get it. It fits me and the offense well. It's always been successful. He knows the team we have and what we can do. I can't wait to get started working with him."
Kubiak's offenses have seemingly always produced productive running backs. Arian Foster elevated his status from undrafted free agent to arguably the top running back in the league when he played under Kubiak in Houston. Likewise, Justin Forsett was fifth in the NFL in rushing this season with 1,266 yards (despite playing for the veteran's minimum salary) with Kubiak as offensive coordinator in Baltimore.
If Denver's offensive line can adapt to Kubiak's zone blocking scheme, that would set Anderson up as a prime target in fantasy football. Of course, Peyton Manning's return would also help Anderson's breakout potential.
Check out some other popular breakout candidates for the 2015 season.
