Broncos' Running Back Dilemma: Free Agency or Draft?

0:00On March 4, the Denver Broncos face a clear shortage at running back heading into next season. They only have one player under contract for 2026, Rookie, RJ Harvey, who stepped up as the starter from week 11 onward after JK. Dobin suffered a season ending injury, Harvey showed promise in the red zone, but lacked consistency as the main back. NFL Networks in Rappaport recently pointed out that the Broncos are among several teams eyeing the free agent market before the April draft. He noted the Jaffante Williams extension in Dallas has reset expectations, with top backs now commanding at least $8 million per year. Teams like Seattle, Kansas City, and Jacksonville are in the mix too, signaling a shift from years of undervaluing the position. Fans and analysts see this as crucial for quarterback Bonix, whose offensive line is already strong, but whose running back group ranked near the bottom last year. Harvey, Jalil McLaughlin, and Tyler Beatty didn't inspire much fear and opponents during the playoffs.

1:03General manager George Patton praised Dobin recently at the combine, calling him a big hit in the locker room. The Broncos could resign Dobin's on a short deal, around 8 million over two years. Even riding with incentives tied to health, given his 700, 72 yards, and 4 touchdowns in 10 games before the injury. They might pair him with free agents like Kenneth Walker, Tyler Algar, or Travis Etienne, or Adedraf Pick instead. Free agency heats up soon, with legal tampering starting March 9th and the new league year on March 13th. Patton's strategy has always been to plug big holes early, so expect moves that shore up the backfield and build around nicks before draft A arrives.