After mostly finishing at the bottom of the western division in years past, optimism was a bit higher in the Denver Broncos camp heading into the 1965 season. Denver had signed two of the league’s greatest running backs in Cookie Gilchrist and Abner Haynes, and with the receiving threat in Lionel Taylor, Bronco fans were hoping for great things to come from their offense. Sports Illustrated acknowledged the improvements on the offensive side of the ball, but had little faith in the Denver defense, and still expected them to finish last in the division.
Cookie Gilchrist proved to be a big help in the Denver backfield, rushing for nearly 1,000 yards on the season. Haynes did not live up to preseason hopes, and was held under 200 yards rushing on the season. As SI had speculated, their was a lack of leadership and production at the quarterback position, which hurt the Broncos greatly. In the end, Denver again finished last in the division, with a 4-10 season record.
I always thought Cookie Gilchrist was pound for pound was just as good as Jimmy Brown.Cookie could also kick field goals and play defense if necessary.I think he got in contract problem with Bills owner Ralph Wilson, he wanted two contracts paid at same time, one for carrying the ball, and the other for kicking it.Like they said in Buffalo “Lookie,lookie,here comes Cookie”.
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