The Denver Broncos came out of the NFL draft with a new projected starting running back in RJ Harvey, but the team still hasn’t replaced the pass-blocking skills of Javonte Williams, who left during NFL free agency.
The Broncos are unlikely to find a top pass-blocking back among their undrafted free agent signees or rookie minicamp tryout players, but they could look to free agency for a veteran.
The most notable running back still available is J.K. Dobbins, who Pro Football Focus gave a 72.6 grade for his pass-blocking last season. Dobbins is obviously also a threat as a runner, totaling 905 yards and nine touchdowns on 195 carries last fall.
Another veteran running back option is Jeff Wilson, who received an 83.7 pass blocking grade from PFF on a limited sample size of eight games in 2024. Wilson is also a threat as a receiver out of the backfield with 74 career receptions for 585 yards and five scores.
On defense, another notable free agent is linebacker Eric Kendricks. George Paton was the assistant general manager and vice president of player personnel when the Minnesota Vikings used a seconnd-round pick to draft Kendricks in 2015. He totaled 138 tackles, three pass breakups, three forced fumbles, three sacks and two interceptions in 15 games with the Dallas Cowboys last fall. With Dre Greenlaw recovering from a quad injury and Alex Singleton returning from a torn ACL, Kendricks could give Denver short-term insurance.
Elsewhere on defense, there are two sentimental options. Pass rusher Von Miller remains a free agent after being cut by the Buffalo Bills, and safety Justin Simmons is also available. The Broncos are deep at pass rusher, so it would be hard to make room for Miller, but the team could bring back Simmons — if he’s willing to sign as a backup. The veteran safety would presumably go to a contender where he would have a better chance at playing time.
So — with some of them more realistic options than others — here’s a quick recap of notable free agents still available for Denver.
Free agents left for BroncosRB J.K. DobbinsRB Jeff Wilson LB Eric KendricksOLB Von MillerS Justin Simmons
We will track any potential future roster moves for Dnever on Broncos Wire.
Related: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.