San Diego Chargers running back Branden Oliver is upbeat that his second year in the NFL will be a lot easier than the first due to gaining familiarity with the league.
The 23-year-old was thrust into a starting role with the AFC West outfit in the 2014 campaign following injuries to fellow backs Ryan Mathews and Danny Woodhead.
Oliver had a bright start to his rookie season, but faded towards the end of the campaign as the Chargers narrowly missed out on a place in the playoffs.
However, the back is confident that he can sustain his success in his second year in the league because of the knowledge that he acquired in the 2014 campaign.
He told the club's official website: "They will come easier this year because I'm more comfortable and know the offense. Now I can just go out there and ball. This year is very different. I feel so much better coming in.
"I'm more confident. I'm gelling with the guys and am more open to them because I know them better. It's really just crazy to be going into my second year already. But I feel real good."
Oliver recorded 853 total yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns for the Chargers last season.
Simon Sinclair
