With the Denver Broncos set for the 2026 NFL draft in just a few weeks, we’re breaking down what they’ve done in the past when it comes to the biggest positions they need to address.
One of those positions is running back. The Broncos just re-signed J.K. Dobbins to a two-year deal. When Dobbins was healthy, he and 2025 second-round pick RJ Harvey formed a good combination.
However, when Dobbins missed the second half of the season because of injuries, Harvey had to step into the lead role, and while he had his moments, he wasn’t as effective. Harvey could improve in 2026, but it still raises the question of what would happen if Dobbins were to miss time.
Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie will return but they have their limitations, meaning the Broncos should draft a running back for competition. But how have the Broncos done when it comes to past drafts?
Here’s a list of every running back the Broncos have drafted since 2011, the first year of the rookie pay scale.
Ronnie Hillman, 2012, third round
Montee Ball, 2013, second round
Devontae Booker, 2016, fourth round
De’Angelo Henderson, 2017, sixth round
Royce Freeman, 2018, third round
David Williams, 2018, seventh round
Javonte Williams, 2021, second round
Audric Estime, 2024, fifth round
RJ Harvey, 2025, second round
What it Means