The Denver Broncos are back at practice, and veteran running back J.K. Dobbins is already teaching the new players how to act like professionals. During a recent team workout, Dobbins gave rookie linebacker Red Murdock a loud reality check about what it means to be in the NFL. 

The moment happened during a non-contact practice drill. Murdock, a young defender known for playing hard, accidentally knocked wide receiver Michael Bandy to the ground. Dobbins did not like this at all. He immediately called out the rookie from 25 yards away. 

According to the Denver Broncos on SI, his message was simple, “We're grown men out here with mouths to feed. Let's not get carried away, and let's make sure we take care of each other.” 

Dobbins acts as a mentor to Murdock. He was Denver's best runner last season, even though a foot injury forced him to miss the final seven games. The Broncos valued his talent and leadership so much that they gave him a big two-year, $16 million contract extension in March. 

“He’s one of those compound multipliers,’’ SI.com reported, quoting Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “There’s so much that he brings. You usually hear him before you see him in there. Probably sometimes out here (on the field). He’s a tremendous teammate and, yeah, I’m glad he’s with us.” 

For Murdock, the moment was an early reminder that NFL coaches and veterans expect players to know when to pull back during practice.

However, he is a dangerous defender who broke the all-time college football record for forcing 17 fumbles at the University at Buffalo. 

He has the skills to succeed, as long as he learns to channel his aggression safely during practice. 

The Next Step in Murdock's Development

For Murdock, the moment was a reminder that earning a role in Denver will require more than playing hard.

The rookie is trying to climb a depth chart that already includes veterans Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, leaving little room for avoidable mistakes.

Murdock was drafted as the 257th pick in the seventh round, earning the label of Mr. Irrelevant, though not taken as an insult. But it is often celebrated as an honor.

Murdock left Buffalo as the NCAA FBS record holder with 17 forced fumbles and built his game around playing fast, per Sports Illustrated.

The challenge now is learning when to dial it back. Thursday's play came during a non-contact period, and veterans like Dobbins were quick to remind him of that.

For a rookie fighting to make an impression, those lessons are just as important as any tackle or turnover.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey