The Denver Broncos have no shortage of offseason priorities, but one position quietly climbing the list is running back. With J.K. Dobbins hitting free agency and the backfield picture still a bit murky, Denver could be in the market for a new lead runner - and one name that’s gaining traction is Kenneth Walker III.
Walker, who just wrapped up a productive season with the Seattle Seahawks, is drawing interest as a potential free-agent target for Denver. And when you look at the numbers and the tape, it’s easy to see why.
Let’s start with what the Broncos currently have. RJ Harvey showed flashes this past season, but he’s not quite built to carry the full load as a bellcow back in the NFL. He’s the kind of player who thrives in a complementary role - a change-of-pace option who can make defenses pay when paired with a more physical, every-down back.
Dobbins, when healthy, filled that role admirably. But health has been a question mark, and if Denver wants to take a step forward in the run game, they may need to aim higher.
Enter Kenneth Walker III.
Walker has racked up 3,555 rushing yards across four seasons in Seattle, including a 1,027-yard campaign this year, despite operating in a split backfield with Zach Charbonnet. Even with limited touches at times, he still found the end zone five times on the ground and showed flashes of the dynamic, tackle-breaking runner he was coming out of Michigan State.
What makes Walker especially intriguing is what he did in the postseason. In just two playoff games, he exploded for four rushing touchdowns and 178 yards on the ground, while also adding seven catches for 79 yards.
That’s not just production - that’s a player elevating his game when it matters most. He was Seattle’s go-to guy in the biggest moments, and he delivered.
Now imagine that kind of explosiveness in Denver’s offense.
Walker brings a blend of burst, vision, and power that could give the Broncos a true difference-maker in the backfield. His ability to flip the field with one cut and hit the home run is something Denver lacked at times this season. And while he’d still likely share carries with Harvey, Walker’s ceiling is clearly higher than what the Broncos have seen from their current rotation.
Of course, running back isn’t the only box Denver needs to check this offseason. Linebacker is a big one, especially with Alex Singleton set to hit free agency. Defensive line depth is another area to watch, and adding another pass-catcher - either at wide receiver or tight end - wouldn’t hurt.
But if the Broncos decide to make a splash at running back, Kenneth Walker III might just be the move that takes their offense to the next level. He’s not just a solid option - he’s a potential game-changer.