The Denver Broncos did, at last, properly address their underwhelming running back room with the addition of UCF’s RJ Harvey in the second round of this year’s draft (#60 overall).
However, Harvey still has ways to go before he is polished in the passing game to go alongside his ability running the ball.
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In the modern game, RB1s are expected – almost without exception – to have at the bare minimum, competent receiving abilities out of the backfield. In fact, it has become; with the development of the spread offense; just as important for running backs as pass protection and blitz pickups in key passing situations.
And with Broncos head coach, Sean Payton, repeatedly stating his desire to bring in a true “joker” – a running back or tight end with elite receiving abilities – it is not out of the question that Denver makes a move to add another name to their running back room.
Sean Payton Denver BroncosGary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
And a very suitable candidate for that would be the Jacksonville Jaguars‘ Travis Etienne Jr., who is one of the more capable receiving backs in the NFL, but has struggled to consistently produce in running between the tackles.
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After a down year in 2024, after which the Jaguars selected Bhayshul Tuten in the fourth round of this year’s draft, it could be that Etienne is no longer a major part of Jacksonville’s plans moving forward.
Playing on a reasonable, but not cheap, $6.7 million fifth year option in 2025, the Broncos could manage to get the former Clemson standout for a discount price due to his cap hit this year.
Broncos get: Travis Etienne Jr., 2027 seventh round pick
Jaguars get: 2026 sixth round pick
Less than a sixth round pick may seem harsh for a back that generated 1,000 yard rushing seasons in successive years from 2022 to 2023, but Etienne’s drop off to just 558 in 2024 will be concerning.
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However, when used primarily as a third down back, Etienne can have substantial use; limiting his touches of the ball and exploiting his great speed and solid route running abilities.
He would also be an excellent veteran figure to lead a room that is spearheaded by players that have no more than two years experience in the NFL.
Related: Broncos Extend Minicamp Offer To Brother Of 4,700 Yard Back