The Denver Broncos have surprised many by securing a spot in the AFC Playoffs, despite receiving minimal contributions from their running backs. This situation becomes even more perplexing when considering the fact that the running back position in the NFL can be a highly effective one without requiring significant financial investment. The Broncos’ struggles in this area are frustrating, but they are also fixable, particularly with the 2025 NFL draft approaching.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests that the Broncos could address their running back woes by selecting Omarion Hampton, a two-time All-American from North Carolina, in the first round of the draft. While drafting a running back in the first round can be seen as a risk, the Broncos are in a position where they already have many of the necessary pieces for an offensive resurgence. Hampton, ranked 11th overall in Ballentine’s latest big board, might be the missing ingredient that could elevate the team’s offense.
Hampton has been dominant in his two seasons at North Carolina, rushing for over 1,500 yards each year. Over the course of his last 25 games, he has accumulated 3,164 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, averaging 5.9 yards per carry. In addition, Hampton has showcased his receiving ability with 73 receptions for 595 yards and three touchdowns. His all-around performance over the past two seasons highlights his potential as an NFL-ready running back.
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 220 pounds, Hampton is built for the physical demands of the NFL. He is a versatile player who excels as both a runner and a receiver. His skill set is well-suited for gap/power running schemes, where he can use his momentum to attack the line of scrimmage with authority. Hampton’s ability to break tackles and score in the red zone makes him a promising prospect for the Broncos.
The Broncos’ inability to establish a consistent running game has been an ongoing issue for several years. They haven’t had a player rush for over 1,000 yards since Phillip Lindsay in 2019, and they haven’t had a Pro Bowl running back since Lindsay’s selection in 2018. Going further back, the Broncos haven’t had an NFL All-Pro running back since Terrell Davis, who was a two-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer.
While the Broncos’ running attack in 2023 showed improvement, it still hasn’t reached elite status. The team rushed for 1,908 yards and 12 touchdowns, a noticeable improvement from the previous year’s total of 1,810 yards and 8 touchdowns. Javonte Williams led the team with 513 rushing yards but averaged only 3.7 yards per carry. The biggest boost came from rookies, including quarterback Bo Nix, who rushed for 430 yards and 6 touchdowns, and running back Audric Estime, who contributed 310 yards and 2 touchdowns.
With Hampton’s impressive skill set and the Broncos’ need for a top-tier running back, selecting him in the 2025 NFL draft could provide the team with the stability and explosiveness they have been lacking in their rushing game for years.
