Running back Javonte Williams Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

If the Broncos want to score more TDs they should draft a RB

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/5/22

Scoring zero touchdowns in a 10-9 gut-punch against the Ravens on Sunday shows the Broncos' offense deteriorated, and it's time to think about drafting offensive skill players, specifically running backs.

Through 12 games, Denver ranks 30th in rushing touchdowns. The Broncos (3-9) haven't had a back reach the 100-yard mark in a single game. Promising second-year RB Javonte Williams suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 4, derailing the running game.

Russell Wilson's struggles and the stagnant running attack correlate. Two years ago, Wilson threw a career-high in touchdown passes (40) when Seattle was 12th in rushing. In 11 starts this year, he tossed eight touchdowns.

Since Denver signed Wilson to a five-year extension, it needs to create a system that caters to him. Several RBs can be the first block.

The 2023 draft class is deep at the position, including Bijan Robinson (Texas), Jahmyr Gibbs (Alabama), and Sean Tucker (Syracuse).

2023 NFL Draft eligible RB comparisons (via @BradonDeacon):

Bijan Robinson ➡️ Saquon Barkley
Jahmyr Gibbs ➡️ Alvin Kamara
Devon Achane ➡️ Matt Breida
Zach Charbonnet ➡️ R. Stevenson
Sean Tucker ➡️ Aaron Jones

This years RB class is ELITE pic.twitter.com/eec3nrq56n
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) November 18, 2022

Per Tankathon, the Broncos sit at No.25 in the first round, outside Robinson's range, but it could still land Gibbs or roll the dice on Tucker later in the draft.

Although Robinson is the top option, his fellow prospects are not consolation prizes. Tucker rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 2020 and 2021, while Gibbs averaged 6.3 yards per carry this year.

All options take the pressure off Wilson, complement Willams when he returns, and put the ball in the end zone.

Lions running back Jamaal Williams leads the league in touchdowns (14) scored. The Broncos' offense is last in touchdowns scored with 14.

Jamaal Williams scores his league-leading 14th touchdown

The Denver Broncos entire offense has 14 total touchdowns this season…

pic.twitter.com/SqURyadgB8
— Barstool Sportsbook (@BSSportsbook) December 4, 2022