2024 Broncos' Season, Running Backs

 

Now that the 2024 NFL Draft is in the books, it's time to analyze the Broncos' roster. I'll be looking at each position group over the next few weeks as we lead into Training Camp in July. Today, I continue with a look at the Running Backs.

On the Roster: Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine, Audric Estime, Jaleel McLaughlin, Tyler Badie, Blake Watson, and Michael Burton

About: This is a solid group and one that has options. That's good for the Broncos, but it could be bad for some of those players trying to make the active roster. The Broncos kept three tailbacks and a fullback in 2023. They could keep an additional player, but given the needs at other positions and the likelihood the Broncos will keep three quarterbacks on the active roster, I think a total of four at the position makes sense.

Burton, the team's fullback, has a specific role and set of skills. I think his job is probably safe. So, if we consider him one of the backs, that narrows it to three options for the active roster among six players vying for spots. That sets up an interesting a tough competition as the team returns four players who were on the active roster and Practice Squad a year ago along with two rookies that have shown some promise.

Let's start at the top, I can't foresee Williams being cut. He's entering the final year of his rookie deal, so he could be gone next season, but for now he appears to be the best and most talented back on the roster. Now another full year removed from a major knee injury, he should be poised to take a step forward. I think Williams and Burton are the locks on the roster. Now, we come to the more difficult part of the journey.

Perine is a veteran, also in a contract year. He's a good blocker and pass-catcher, which gives him some utility and flexibility. McLaughlin, as an undrafted free agent in 2023, showed flashes but seemed to fade a bit down the stretch. Estime was a decent pick during the draft who also has good size and could be the Broncos' future. Watson is an intriguing undrafted free agent this year, while Badie was something of a role player who flashed in camp last year, got injured, and hung on as part of the Practice Squad. Which two of these guys makes the roster? And how many make the Practice Squad?

Personally, I think the Broncos will hold Perine, who played a lot in the Two-Minute and come-from-behind offenses. He has a unique set of skills there that will give him a slight edge. The only danger comes if a couple of the Broncos' young backs really show something and there is concern they won't get through to the Practice Squad.

That brings me to Estime. He's a solid draft choice with upside. I think he's the other back that's likely to make the active roster. What about McLaughlin, you ask? He's the one that I think many are taking as a given that's most on the bubble. Could he have a strong camp and pre-season? Sure, he could. If that happens, it's possible that Perine is the cap casualty. But I'm leaning toward McLaughlin and Watson being Practice Squad selections.

We'll see how it goes once Camp begins in July.