ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — As the Broncos have stacked practices in training camp, a clearer picture has emerged in the run game. According to Head Coach Sean Payton, fans can expect to see something new this season.
"I think this about the running game: It's going to be different," Payton said. "We've immediately upgraded that position. We brought in leadership with J.K. [Dobbins], we drafted [RJ] Harvey early. You're going to see a difference — and hopefully a remarkably different running game."
The early signs of that shift are already visible in practice, though Payton emphasized that the real evaluation will come when the pads stay on and the whistles come later.
"You haven't seen it yet, because in every drill there's an early whistle," Payton said. "It's hard to appreciate when you're working a thud-up, touch-up tempo. … It's hard to spot the ball when it's not tackle. I think you'll see it. We've seen it."
With more full-contact periods and preseason action ahead, the competition in the running back room, one of the deepest position groups on the roster, is expected to intensify. And with a mix of experience and young talent, the Broncos have options.
Fourth-year back Tyler Badie, whom Payton was asked about Thursday, has shown his effectiveness as a receiver and his ability to operate in two-minute situations.
"He's good in protections when the fronts move around," Payton said. "He's a good receiver. You're seeing some of the things he does well — he can play in the two-minute [drill]."
But he's not alone. Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime and Blake Watson have all shown flashes at times in camp.
"It's one of those position groups where you're like, 'Let's find the argument for Tyler. Let's find the argument for Audric. Let's find it for Jaleel,'" Payton said. "And you're rooting for all of them."
The head-to-head battles are far from settled. Payton noted that breaking tackles in live situations, as well as contributions on special teams, will be key differentiators as the coaching staff weighs roster decisions.
"We don't know yet [who will make the team]," Payton said. "It's still a very competitive spot. The games factor in a little bit more when you're able to break a tackle and that type of thing. If it's really close, is there one that does something better in the kicking game? We're not there yet, but fortunately we have 10 to 11 days."
When the regular season arrives, the Broncos' ground game is positioned to look and perform differently in 2025. And as preseason reps ramp up, the competition in the backfield is only just beginning to unfold.
