The Denver Broncos are gearing up to reignite their ground game with the return of J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey for the 2026 season.
Adding depth, they've also secured Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie on one-year deals, setting the stage for a competitive training camp. However, don't be surprised if the Broncos look to the 2026 NFL Draft to further strengthen their backfield.
Last season, Dobbins' absence was keenly felt as Denver's rushing attack faltered, particularly in short-yardage situations. To avoid a repeat, it's crucial for the Broncos to have a capable backup who can seamlessly fill Dobbins' shoes if needed.
Enter Kaytron Allen, the Penn State dynamo. As the Nittany Lions’ all-time leading rusher, Allen's senior season was nothing short of spectacular, amassing 1,303 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His physical style and knack for gaining yards after contact could be exactly what Denver needs.
Let’s break down Allen’s game and consider how he might fit into the Broncos' plans.
In the Film Room: Analyzing Allen
Strengths:
- Allen boasts the ideal size, strength, and balance for an effective early-down back in the NFL.
- His record-setting career at Penn State speaks volumes about his productivity.
- With a 6.2 yards per carry average and 15 touchdowns in his senior year, Allen's efficiency is clear.
- He displays patience, decisiveness, and perhaps the best vision among his peers in this draft class.
- Allen is adept in both zone and gap schemes, making him versatile in various offensive setups.
- His resilience is evident as he averages over 3.8 yards after contact, even when facing stacked defenses.
- Ball security is a non-issue, with only two fumbles over the past two seasons on more than 400 carries.
- Despite a heavy workload, Allen has proven to be durable and reliable.
Areas for Improvement:
- Allen lacks explosive speed, which limits his ability to break away for long runs.
- He’s not expected to be a major threat as a receiving back in the NFL.
- His open-field creativity and elusiveness could use some refinement.
- Compared to others in this draft, he’s had more wear and tear.
- Like many backs, Allen could improve his pass protection skills.
Draft Projection and Fit for Denver
The Broncos are likely to address their running back needs in the draft, and Allen could be a strategic pick. While other prospects like Jonah Coleman and Mike Washington Jr. are on the radar, they might require Denver to use their top second-round pick. A more prudent approach could be trading down from pick 62 to accumulate additional selections, allowing them to target Allen later on Day 2 or early Day 3.
Despite his limitations as a receiver and lack of top-end speed, Allen’s strengths align perfectly with Denver’s needs. Pairing him with Harvey could create a formidable duo, enhancing the Broncos' rushing attack for 2026 and beyond. Allen is projected to come off the board late in the third or early in the fourth round, a spot where Denver could find great value.