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Broncos Newest Addition Expected to Get Bulk of Snaps in Offense

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 1:30 PM ET

With Sean Payton calling the shots on offense, snaps will be at a premium for the Denver Broncos running backs. That makes the team's signing of J.K. Dobbins, who was released Los Angeles Chargers this offseason, that much more intriguing.

According to Jeff Legwold of ESPN, Dobbins' versatility and veteran status could give him the edge for snaps over 2025 second-round pick R.J. Harvey and 2024 fifth-round pick Audric Estime.

"Dobbins likely has the early advantage for the most snaps in the room because of his ability as a pass blocker and 'intelligence on third down,' as Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph put it, ," Legwold said.

The Broncos' new additions, like Dobbins and Harvey, will likely have the best chance to contribute for one main reason: last season's backs struggled to use open running lanes.

"The Broncos consistently carved out more lanes for their running backs than any other team in the league but didn't get much return," Legwold said. "According to NFL Next Gen Stats, the Broncos were 24th in rushing yards gained over expectation."

That is a brutal realization for the Broncos, who are returning all of their starters along the offensive line. It is no wonder the team went out and got Harvey and Dobbins.

Legwold says that those two, and the rest of the backs, will have to showcase themselves during training camp, which is where Payton believes the answer will reveal itself.

"When that time comes, you guys are going to know just like I'm going to know," Payton said. "You're going to see it."

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

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