Broncos Meet With Oregon Running Back at NFL Combine

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andrew Wright | Last updated Feb 28, 2025 4:00 PM ET

When discussing running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft, most people would probably agree that Ashton Jeanty is by far the best available option at the position. Jeanty will be the only running back taken in the first round.

Behind him, there will be many different opinions on the rest of the ordering of players, and one of those players that would be named is Oregon running back Jordan James.

James has reportedly met with several teams , and one of those teams is the Denver Broncos. Denver may need a running back if they are not able to re-sign Javonte Williams, a running back who has been with the team since he was drafted by them in 2021.

What a replacement James could be, as the former Ducks running back finished the 2024 with season 1.267 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. He also added 209 receiving yards on 26 catches.

James has been given a 6.16 prospect grade , meaning that scouts say he is a backup caliber running back but has the potential to turn into a starter. With the only rostered running backs for the Broncos being Tyler Badie, Audric Estime, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Blake Watson, James would come in and instantly compete to be the No. 1 running back on the depth chart.

An interesting nugget about James is that he spent two seasons at Oregon with current Denver starting quarterback Bo Nix. A reunion between the two could unlock some chemistry that helps the Broncos get back to the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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