Broncos RB Room: Dobbins, Harvey, and the Battle for Roster Spots

Broncos Backfield Battle: Williams Arrival Sparks Intense Competition

ENGLEWOOD, CO – The Denver Broncos’ running back room is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested position battles of training camp. the recent signing of Javonte Williams, formerly of the Broncos and the team’s leading rusher in 2024 with 139 carries for 513 yards, adds a significant layer of complexity to a group already brimming with youthful talent.

Williams’ arrival, confirmed by ESPN, doesn’t guarantee a starting role. Head coach Sean Payton has a stable of young backs eager to prove themselves, including Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, Tyler Badie, and blake Watson – all with two or fewer seasons of NFL experience under their belts.Payton has consistently highlighted McLaughlin as a potential “change-of-pace” option. The versatile back boasts two 400-yard rushing seasons and a proven ability as a receiver, with 55 career receptions. McLaughlin is also physically transforming, adding roughly 17 pounds to his frame, aiming to enhance his durability without sacrificing the speed that makes him a threat. “I’ve been working on being where they want me to be at in the pass game, also in protection,” McLaughlin stated, emphasizing his focus on becoming a more complete back.

The competition for roster spots behind Williams is expected to be fierce. With the broncos historically carrying only four running backs, Estime, Badie, and Watson will be battling for perhaps just one or two remaining places on the 53-man roster. Payton has pledged to give each player ample possibility during practices and preseason games to showcase their abilities.

Estime showed flashes of potential late last season, finding the endzone twice in the final three regular-season games, though he was inactive during the playoff loss to Buffalo. Badie demonstrated explosive playmaking ability with a 43-yard run, but his 2024 campaign was cut short by a back injury. Watson, an undrafted rookie last year, saw limited action, appearing in only two games.Beyond the Headlines: The Modern Running back Room

The Broncos’ situation exemplifies a growing trend in the NFL: the emphasis on running back depth and versatility. The days of relying on a single, workhorse back are largely over. Teams now prioritize having multiple backs who can contribute in different facets of the game – rushing, receiving, and pass protection.

This approach offers several advantages. It reduces the risk of injury to any one player, keeps defenses guessing, and allows offensive coordinators to exploit mismatches. The Broncos’ current group appears to fit this mold, with each back possessing unique strengths.

The success of this strategy hinges on effective coaching and a willingness to adapt the game plan based on individual player performance. Payton’s track record suggests he’s well-equipped to navigate this challenge.

Ultimately, veteran addition gus Edwards believes the collective talent within the broncos’ backfield will be a significant asset. “If you got a beast back there, you’re going to give him the ball,” Edwards said. “But this group is young, talented and they all coudl have impact with the ball, they’re all beasts.We want that for each other.”

How might Javonte Williams’ recovery timeline influence the Broncos’ approach to utilizing Samaje Perine, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Audric Estime in the early stages of the season?

Javonte Williams’ Recovery & The Impact on Depth

The Denver Broncos’ running back situation is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the 2025 season. While Javonte Williams continues his recovery from a significant knee injury sustained in 2022, the competition for snaps and roster spots behind him is heating up. The team invested heavily in the position, creating a genuine battle between samaje Perine, jaleel McLaughlin, and rookie Audric Estime. Understanding the nuances of this competition is crucial for fantasy football players and Broncos fans alike. Key terms to watch: running back depth chart, Broncos running game, Javonte Williams update.

The Contenders: A Player-by-Player Breakdown

let’s dive into the strengths and weaknesses of each player vying for a spot in the Broncos’ backfield.

Javonte Williams: The presumed starter when fully healthy. His power, receiving ability, and overall versatility make him a focal point of the offense. Though,the long-term effects of his injury remain a question mark.

Samaje Perine: A veteran presence signed in the offseason, Perine brings reliability and pass-catching skills.He’s a solid third-down back and a capable runner between the tackles. Pass-catching running backs are highly valued in today’s NFL.

Jaleel McLaughlin: An undrafted gem from 2023,McLaughlin impressed with his explosiveness and ability to make plays in limited action. He’s a pure runner with the potential to be a change-of-pace back. Undrafted free agents, breakout running backs.

Audric Estime: The Broncos’ fifth-round pick in the 2025 draft, Estime is a powerful, downhill runner known for his physicality.He needs to refine his receiving skills but possesses the size and strength to be a short-yardage specialist. Rookie running backs, power running.

Training Camp Observations & Early Impressions (August 2025)

Early reports from Broncos training camp suggest a tight competition.Estime has reportedly been remarkable in one-on-one drills, showcasing his power. McLaughlin continues to flash his speed and elusiveness. Perine is proving to be a reliable option in passing situations.

Here’s a breakdown of what analysts are saying:

1. Estime’s physicality: Multiple reports highlight Estime’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact.
2. McLaughlin’s Speed: His breakaway speed remains a significant asset, forcing defenders to account for his potential.
3. Perine’s Consistency: He’s consistently making the right reads and executing his assignments.
4. Williams’ Progression: While still not at 100%, Williams is participating in more drills each day, indicating positive progress.

Fantasy Football Implications: RB Rankings & ADP

The uncertainty surrounding Williams’ health significantly impacts the fantasy football value of the other Broncos running backs.

Javonte Williams: Currently ranked as a high-end RB2 with an ADP (Average Draft Position) in the late second/early third round. His ADP will fluctuate based on his health updates.

Samaje perine: A late-round flier with potential as a handcuff to Williams. ADP: Rounds 12-15.

Jaleel McLaughlin: A potential sleeper with upside if Williams suffers a setback. ADP: Rounds 15+.

audric Estime: A deep-league stash with potential as a goal-line back.ADP: Undrafted in most leagues.

Fantasy football rankings, running back ADP, handcuff running backs are all important search terms for fantasy players.

Historical Precedent: Broncos RB Usage Under Sean Payton

Looking at Sean Payton’s coaching history,he typically utilizes a committee approach in the backfield,even when he has a clear-cut starter. In New Orleans, he frequently enough rotated backs to keep them fresh and maximize their effectiveness. This suggests that even when Williams is fully healthy, Perine, McLaughlin, and Estime could still see meaningful snaps.Sean Payton coaching style, running back committees.

Potential Scenarios & Roster Projections

Here are a few potential scenarios for the Broncos’ running back room:

Scenario 1: Williams Returns to Full Health: Williams is the clear starter, with Perine handling third-down duties and McLaughlin serving as a change-of-pace back. Estime is a healthy scratch or limited to special teams.

Scenario 2: Williams Experiences a Setback: Perine becomes the lead back,with McLaughlin and Estime competing for snaps. This scenario significantly increases the value of McLaughlin and Estime.

* Scenario 3: A Committee Approach: Payton utilizes all four running backs, rotating them based on matchups and game situations. This scenario would limit the upside of any individual player