C.J. Anderson has the look of a true number one running back right now

Three months ago, the Denver Broncos signed C.J. Anderson to a very healthy contract. Anderson vowed to live up to his newfound worth.

"People still think you can't do it. I can’t be the bell cow back. I can't stay healthy. I'm not going to be able to produce and be productive in this system," Anderson said. "There are still things going on out there that still keep you motivated and hungry."

A lot of players say these kinds of things after getting paid, but Anderson followed through.

But then a month ago, the buzz started up that C.J. Anderson coming through that Anderson was backing up his words with better physique and fitness. Andy Lindhal of 850 KOA said Anderson looked as fit as he's ever seen him.

Now this week, Andrew Mason of the Broncos digital media team confirmed that all of this talk and rumor is now showing up on the football field:

C.J. Anderson has looked like the No. 1 running back his contract says he is throughout OTAs so far. His cuts are decisive, just as they were in the second half of the 2015 season after he had recovered from a sprained ankle.

He's also adjusting well to having a fullback in front of him, whether it is third-year veteran Juwan Thompson or rookie Andy Janovich.

So when Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro of The Afternoon Drive discussed whether Anderson was ready to take over the running back position on Thursday afternoon, the answer could only be yes.

Anderson is poised to have the best season of his career in 2016, which is exactly what the Broncos need from him with such uncertainty at the quarterback position. No matter who is under center this year, the Broncos will need a strong rushing attack backing them up.

Lastly, be sure to take advantage of this knowledge in your fantasy football leagues this year. Only Broncos fans are going to know Anderson is going to have major fantasy value in 2016, so reach in the third or fourth rounds and pick him up. It will pay off.

Bonus Listen

Shane Ray chats with The Afternoon Drive about his role in the upcoming season. His role on the Broncos defense is about to expand.