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SOUTH BEND, INDIANA – OCTOBER 18: Jadarian Price #24 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish returns a kickoff for a touchdown during the third quarter against the USC Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 18, 2025 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos head into the offseason with a clear need at running back. Now, one of the most respected voices in the draft world is connecting them to a name that continues to gain momentum.

When Notre Dame running backs are mentioned in the first round conversation, most immediately think of Jeremiyah Love, who is widely projected as a top 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

But during his pre-combine media session, NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah pointed to Love’s backfield partner, Jadarian Price, as a player who could enter the late first round conversation.

As first reported by The Denver Post’s Parker Gabriel, Jeremiah called Price “somebody who I think can be a complete, three-down back” and specifically mentioned Denver as a potential fit.

NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah says he thinks Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price could move into late-first round conversation. A potential fit for the #Broncos and “somebody who I think can be a complete, three-down back” to pair with RJ Harvey.

Said Denver needs more at RB and TE.

Jeremiah also made it clear that the Broncos still need more firepower at both running back and tight end.

That sentiment lines up with what many around the league already believe. RJ Harvey flashed as a rookie, especially in scoring situations and out of the backfield. However, Denver lacks a true every down presence who can consistently handle early down work.

Broncos Have Clear Running Back Need

The Broncos’ backfield remains unsettled heading into the offseason.

J.K. Dobbins is set to hit free agency, and even if there is mutual interest in a reunion, durability concerns make it risky to rely on him as the lone answer.

Harvey showed big play ability and nose for the end zone, but his role is likely best suited as part of a committee rather than as a featured workhorse.

That is where Price becomes intriguing.

At 5 foot 11 and 210 pounds, the Notre Dame product brings a well built frame, explosive acceleration, and legitimate long speed.

He rushed for 674 yards and 11 touchdowns on just 113 carries in 2025, averaging six yards per attempt while splitting time with Jeremiyah Love.

Jeremiah praised Price’s patience and contact balance, writing that he “runs low to the ground and has supreme contact balance” while also noting his reliability in pass protection.

For a Sean Payton offense that values versatility and situational awareness, that skill set is important.

Why Price Fits the Broncos

Price’s profile suggests he could handle more volume at the next level than he saw in college.

He has shown improvement in pass protection, flashes natural hands, and brings added value as a kickoff returner.

In today’s NFL, that type of all around contribution increases a rookie’s immediate impact.

However, there are areas to clean up.

Ball security was an issue in 2025, and at times he hunts for the home run rather than taking the efficient gain.

But those are coachable elements, especially within a structured system like Denver has.

If Price tests well at the NFL Combine, his stock could continue to rise into firm first round territory.

For a Broncos team picking at No. 30 and searching for a long-term workhorse in the backfield, the connection makes sense.

Jeremiah mentioning Price is only going to add to the buzz.

And if Denver is truly looking for a complete back to grow alongside Bo Nix, Jadarian Price may be a name that continues to surface as draft night approaches.

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