Which 5 Running Backs Should Broncos Target This Offseason?

Dobbins’ efficiency made him one of the league’s top rushers early. Beyond that, though, he also propelled the Broncos’ run game to very strong numbers. When he played, they averaged 128.6 rushing yards per game and 4.76 YPC, which put them in the top ten. However, after his injury, Denver fell to around 104.6 yards per game and 3.94 YPC, which put them in the bottom ten.

Re-signing him on an incentive-laden deal in the around $7 million range would be very affordable for the Broncos. Additionally, this signing would allow Denver to capitalize on his existing rapport with rookie RJ Harvey and the offensive line. Durability remains a valid concern given his history of injuries, but his proven production in Denver makes this a low-risk, high-reward situation.

Re-signing Dobbins allows the Broncos to sidestep the adjustment period of a new face and enables Dobbins to serve as an ideal bridge while Harvey develops.

Tyler Allgeier (Free Agent – UFA, Atlanta Falcons)

Tyler Allgeier is a solid free-agent option with a reasonable $5-$7 million-per-year projected contract. The 25-year-old power back dominates as an in-between-the-tackles runner. He also excels in goal-line situations and in pass protection, which are traits that Sean Payton values in a back. His powerful running style would complement Harvey’s speed and receiving ability, creating a very scary potential duo. 

Atlanta’s cap and depth considerations could make him attainable without a massive outlay. However, if he were to become available, his youth and consistency make him a high-floor addition.

Overall, adding Allgeier addresses Denver’s need for a reliable early-down hammer, which was missing in key stretches last season. His fit in Payton’s physical scheme opens play-action windows and improves short-yardage conversion rates. Additionally, a multi-year contract with incentives perfectly fits Denver’s cap flexibility post-playoff run. This signing would provide the Broncos with immediate toughness and long-term value.

Rico Dowdle (Free Agent – UFA, Carolina Panthers)

Many reporters have linked Dowdle to Denver. Most notably, ESPN‘s Matt Bowen explicitly called Dowdle the Broncos’ “best team fit” among top-50 2026 free agents. Bowen cited his decisive downhill running and goal-line power, dubbing him a great Dobbins replacement. Dowdle is just coming off a phenomenal 1,076-yard season with 26 explosive carries of 10+ yards.

The 27-year-old brings the physical edge that Payton’s offense demands on early downs. He would complement Harvey by handling volume while allowing the rookie to excel in space as a receiver and change-of-pace threat.

Dowdle’s production and age position him as a cost-effective bridge with upside. Beyond that, an affordable deal seems realistic if Carolina pivots elsewhere. This addition solves Denver’s red-zone and short-yardage struggles from late 2025. Dowdle would be able to seamlessly step in for Dobbins while enhancing Harvey’s role to form a formidable backfield. 

Jadarian Price (2026 NFL Draft – Notre Dame, Projected Round 2)

Jadarian Price is a versatile three-down prospect with elite vision and receiving skills. He has also drawn direct interest from the Broncos after a series of Draft Combine interviews.

Mocked frequently to Denver in Round 2 (around pick 60), he’s a high-efficiency back with strong PFF grades. His athleticism and pass-game chops make him ideal to grow alongside Harvey as an every-down option long-term. Moreover, Price would be a perfect fit for Payton’s beloved zone and power concepts. This mid-round pick would provide youth without forcing Denver to burn much capital.

In addition, drafting Price creates a dynamic, future-proof duo for Denver’s offense. His Notre Dame production and Combine performance indicate tremendous upside. Multiple mocks have already tied him to the Broncos, as they would enable him to contribute immediately while developing into a featured role.

Nicholas Singleton (2026 NFL Draft – Penn State, Projected Rounds 3-4)

Nicholas Singleton is a powerful 6’0″, 224-pound downhill runner with elite acceleration, contact balance, and burst for his size. Projected in Rounds 3-4, his 102 career catches and short-yardage strength give him true three-down upside to pair with RJ Harvey. Similar to Price, many mock drafts and analysts have tied him to the Broncos, noting the possible fit. His split-back role at Penn St. and his current foot injury may dip his stock a bit, but Singleton has mid-round steal written all over him.

Singleton could bring the big-play spark Denver missed in 2025, with Bleacher Report highlighting his growth into a dynamic, David Johnson-esque playmaker. As for his injury, he expressed optimism about ditching the boot soon and being ready for private workouts before the April draft.

Mid-round cost means low risk with huge rewards if he recovers fully. Singleton could add explosiveness, depth, and starter potential to Payton’s backfield.

Who Should They Get?

The Broncos have many realistic paths to upgrade their backfield in 2026. However, Payton’s comments at the Combine and the no-tender on McLaughlin signal a proactive reset, not a rebuild. Therefore, a committee with either a smart veteran or a low-risk rookie would help maximize Denver’s championship window.

If the Broncos are going to win a Super Bowl, they will need help from their running game. With the roster they have, they might be one solid running back addition from that coveted Lombardi Trophy.