The Denver Broncos are at a crossroads with their running back situation as free agency opens on Monday, allowing teams to negotiate verbal agreements with agents. While the Broncos have built a defense that can compete for a Super Bowl, their offense, particularly the backfield, remains a significant concern. J.K. Dobbins showed promise but only appeared in 10 games last season, leaving his role uncertain. Meanwhile, R.J. Harvey impressed as a receiver out of the backfield but has struggled running between the tackles. The Broncos must address the running back role soon, considering potential options such as Travis Etienne Jr., Tyler Allgeier, Kenneth Walker, or targeting a mid-round draft pick. The pressing question is: who will fit best in their scheme and salary cap?
Evaluating Running Back Options Beyond the Obvious Choices
Sports analyst Sean Keeler identifies Breece Hall as an ideal pick, but the New York Jets appear set to franchise tag him, making him inaccessible. The Broncos also desire a back who excels running against stacked defenses, a skill Harvey lacks. J.K. Dobbins, according to SumerSports.com, averaged an impressive 4.94 yards per carry against eight or more defenders in the box, a crucial trait for sustaining drives when the defense crowds the line. In comparison, Harvey averaged only 3.17 yards against similar defensive setups. Kenneth Walker III represents an ideal blend of power and agility but comes with a steep price tag, prompting the Broncos to look for alternatives with similar skillsets but better value, such as former Carolina back Rico Dowdle, who averaged 4.34 yards per carry against heavy defensive fronts.
Why Travis Etienne Jr. Remains a Strong Candidate for Denver
Troy Renck advises the Broncos not to overcomplicate their decision. He highlights Etienne’s performance against Denver, noting his 206 rushing yards on 40 carries in just two games, including his standout performance in 2022’s London game. Etienne has posted three seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards and more than 1,400 all-purpose yards. He also ranks sixth in blocking efficiency for the 2025 season, dispelling concerns about his pass protection capabilities. His combination of versatility and durability — missing only six games over four years, compared to Dobbins missing nine last season — makes him a strong fit for the Broncos’ offensive needs.
Discussion Over Potential Costs and Role Fit for Etienne
Sean Keeler emphasizes Etienne’s ability to protect the quarterback, having allowed no sacks last season, which adds value beyond rushing. This dual-threat capacity offers the Broncos a tactical advantage, allowing for more unpredictable play-calling. However, the financial aspect poses a challenge. Javonte Williams recently signed a three-year, $24 million extension with Dallas, averaging $8 million annually. Etienne’s statistics over the past two years surpass Williams’ in terms of offensive snap percentage (54%), average rushing yards per game (52), and rushing touchdowns per game (0.28). The question remains whether Broncos’ management, including GM Paton and head coach Sean Payton, will commit to a contract demanding $8.5 to $9 million per year for a running back who might share carries in a timeshare role.
Other Viable Candidates and Strategies to Bolster the Backfield
Renck reports frequent inquiries advocating for Breece Hall, but the Jets’ intention to keep him with a franchise tag limits Denver’s access to that option. Kenneth Walker is viewed as not fitting into a three-down role due to his more limited pass-catching skills and cost. Consequently, the Broncos’ best options appear to be Etienne, Tyler Allgeier, and Rico Dowdle, noted for his pass protection abilities and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, drafting mid-round prospects like Indiana’s Roman Hemby could provide depth and potential impact as rookies. Keeler also supports incorporating rookies like Nebraska‘s Emmett Johnson or Washington’s Jonah Coleman, particularly if they become available early in the draft’s third day.
Additional Running Back Alternatives and Financial Considerations
Keeler draws attention to Kenneth Gainwell, who delivered nearly identical performance metrics as Dobbins in crowded defensive situations, averaging 4.91 yards per carry with the Steelers and 3.51 yards per carry with Philadelphia when defenders crowded the box. Both analysts agree that while Walker’s talents are valuable, his cost is prohibitive, making mid-tier players like Dowdle more attractive for managing salary cap constraints while maintaining competitive ability. Integrating rookies is also advocated, enhancing the depth chart without excessive financial burden, a critical factor as Denver seeks to capitalize on its current Super Bowl window.
The Strategic Importance of Strengthening the Broncos’ Running Game
The Broncos’ strategy in selecting a running back goes beyond mere statistics; it is a calculated effort to sustain offensive balance and keep defenses off guard. With a dominant defense already in place, adding a reliable and versatile running back like Travis Etienne or an equally capable alternative could elevate the offense to Super Bowl contention. The challenge remains navigating the financial landscape to secure high-level talent without compromising future flexibility. Denver’s upcoming moves at running back will significantly influence the team’s competitiveness in the coming NFL seasons.
“Legal tampering is like sour cream: an oxymoron. Regardless, the Broncos cannot continue to have a juxtaposition at a key position.” – Troy Renck, Sports Analyst
“Etienne didn’t allow a sack as a pass protector last year. When you don’t want personnel to give away your intent before the snap, a 1,000-yard rusher who can block like a third-down specialist is a ridiculous weapon in a pinch.” – Sean Keeler, NFL Analyst
“Sign Breece Hall. That’s where all my emails go. One problem: there will be no Hall pass out of New York. He has an interest in Denver because of his connections to the coaching staff. But all indications are that the Jets will franchise tag Hall.” – Troy Renck, Sports Analyst
“We’re both in the Dowdle camp as a mid-priced option. And I’m absolutely with you when it comes to tossing a rookie in the mix, too. If Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson or Washington’s Jonah Coleman are somehow still on the board early in Day 3, you’d be nuts not to give them at least a sniff.” – Sean Keeler, NFL Analyst
