Broncos Named Top Fit For 1,000 Yard Elite Running Back

With the 2026 NFL Free Agency set to begin within a months time, it’s time to look at the best possible landing spots for the elite talents. One team in the Denver Broncos was on the cusp of greatness, and now have a huge offseason ahead.

In a recent article by ESPN, they discussed their top-50 free agent landing spots, and one that stood out was Rico Dowdle leaving the Carolina Panthers in favor of the Denver Broncos.

Here’s what Matt Bowen said:

“Dowdle would step in for free agent J.K. Dobbins to pair with RJ Harvey in Denver’s backfield. In this scenario, Dowdle would split touches with Harvey, and his decisive, downhill running style works on the goal line in coach Sean Payton’s offense. Dowdle rushed for 1,076 yards and had 26 carries of 10 or more yards last season with the Panthers.”

Let’s break down if this fit is realistic, or too far of a stretch.

Rico Dowdle Could Be Reliable Option for Broncos

The Denver Broncos could be in the market for a running back when the 2026 NFL free agency period opens, and Rico Dowdle stands out as a logical target. With J.K. Dobbins set to hit free agency and carrying a lengthy injury history, Denver may prioritize durability and youth.

Dobbins was highly effective for the Broncos when healthy. He brought explosiveness, vision, and home run ability to Sean Payton’s offense. However, availability has consistently been a concern throughout his career.

Multiple knee injuries and missed time in recent seasons make it risky to rely on him as a long-term solution. If Denver chooses not to re-sign him, the team will need a dependable runner who can shoulder consistent touches without significant injury concerns.

That is where Rico Dowdle comes into play.

Dowdle put together a productive 2024 season with the Dallas Cowboys before elevating his role even further in 2025 with the Carolina Panthers. In 2024 with Dallas, Dowdle rushed for 1079 yards but only two touchdowns. When he left Dallas, people thought the undrafted player would fall off a cliff.

The exact opposite happened, and he proved he could be a true star.

Broncos Running it Back With JK Dobbins & RJ Harvey?

In 2025 with Carolina, Dowdle took on a heavier workload and delivered a breakout campaign. Not only did he have success, but he also had two back-to-back games of 180+ rushing yards.

That type of production highlights both his durability and his ability to generate explosive plays. He demonstrated a decisive, downhill running style that fits well in physical offensive systems, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Sean Payton’s offense values backs who can make quick reads and get north-south without hesitation. Dowdle’s one-cut ability and willingness to finish runs through contact align with that philosophy.

In Denver, he could form an effective tandem with RJ Harvey, splitting touches while providing a more physical presence between the tackles. Harvey’s versatility combined with Dowdle’s power would give the Broncos a balanced rushing attack.

Ultimately, if the Broncos decide that Dobbins’ injury history presents too much long-term risk, Rico Dowdle offers a reliable alternative. With back-to-back productive seasons and a skill set that complements Denver’s offensive identity, he could be an ideal addition to solidify the backfield heading into 2026.

Broncos Named Top Fit For 1,000 Yard Elite Running Back

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