The Denver Broncos are actively pursuing New York Jets running back Breece Hall as part of their efforts to strengthen their backfield during free agency, according to CBS Sports reporter Jonathan Jones. This interest influenced the Jets’ decision to apply the franchise tag on Hall instead of the originally planned transition tag, in an attempt to secure his services amid looming Denver competition.
Jets’ Tag Choice Affected by Broncos’ Interest
By selecting the franchise tag, which carries a fully guaranteed value of $14.293 million for the 2026 season, the Jets effectively raised the stakes for any potential offers for Hall. The transition tag, cheaper by roughly $3 million, would have only allowed the Jets the right of first refusal, but the franchise tag ensures Hall remains under their control for at least another year.
Other Running Back Options for Denver’s Consideration
Aside from Hall, the Broncos are reportedly considering Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker and Jaguars running back Travis Etienne as alternatives. Seattle declined to place the franchise tag on Walker, making him an attractive option as Denver prepares for free agency. Similarly, Etienne, entering unrestricted free agency in 2026, remains a strong candidate due to his consistent production with Jacksonville.
Breece Hall’s Profile and Recent Performance
Breece Hall, 24, earned recognition as a two-time All-American and twice named Big 12 Player of the Year during his college career at Iowa State. Drafted 36th overall in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Jets, Hall signed a four-year contract worth just over $9 million, including a signing bonus of nearly $3.74 million. Hall played the 2025 season under that deal before being franchised for 2026.
In the 2025 season, Hall appeared in 16 games, rushing 243 times for 1,065 yards with an average of 4.3 yards per carry and four touchdowns. He also added 36 receptions for 350 yards and another touchdown and even threw a touchdown pass.
Kenneth Walker’s NFL Journey and Statistics
Kenneth Walker, 25, was drafted by the Seahawks as the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract totaling approximately $8.44 million with a signing bonus exceeding $3.3 million. Walker will become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 after completing his contract.
During the 2025 season, Walker participated in all 17 games for Seattle, rushing 221 times for 1,027 yards, averaging 4.6 yards per carry, and scoring five touchdowns. He also contributed 31 receptions for 282 yards.
Travis Etienne’s Career and 2025 Season Overview
Travis Etienne, 27, made his mark as a three-year starter at Clemson and earned first-team All-American honors in each of his final three collegiate seasons. The Jaguars selected Etienne 25th overall in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His rookie contract was a four-year deal valued at nearly $13 million, with a signing bonus of over $6.7 million. Jacksonville exercised his fifth-year option, guaranteeing $6.143 million for 2025.
Etienne is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. In the 2025 NFL season, he appeared in all 17 games, running for 1,107 yards on 260 carries with a 4.3-yard average and seven touchdowns. He also caught 36 passes for 292 yards and added six receiving touchdowns.
Implications of Broncos’ Running Back Strategy
Denver’s pursuit of Breece Hall signals the team’s intent to invest heavily in the running back position, although attention to Kenneth Walker and Travis Etienne suggests flexibility depending on contract negotiations and availability. With all three players performing at a high level and entering free agency in the near future, the Broncos’ decisions could significantly reshape their offensive dynamics for upcoming seasons.
