The Denver Broncos had a promising start to the 2025 NFL season, largely thanks to J.K. Dobbins' dynamic presence in the backfield.
Unfortunately, Dobbins' season was cut short by a foot injury, marking yet another setback for the talented running back. His absence was keenly felt, as the Broncos' offense struggled without his efficiency and explosive playmaking.
Dobbins has consistently shown he's one of the NFL's most effective running backs when healthy. However, his struggle to complete a full season raises questions about his durability.
With the Broncos eyeing a Super Bowl run, they can't solely rely on Dobbins' return to full health. This situation opens the door for Denver to explore other options, particularly in the free-agent market.
Enter Travis Etienne, a top-tier free agent running back who could be a game-changer for the Broncos. After a strong comeback season in 2025 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he amassed 1,399 scrimmage yards and 13 touchdowns, Etienne is drawing interest from multiple teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs. However, the Chiefs' limited cap space and other roster needs might complicate their pursuit of Etienne.
The Broncos, on the other hand, are in a prime position to make a competitive offer. With $28.7 million in cap space, Denver can afford to pay Etienne a lucrative salary.
Adding him to their roster would not only address their running game concerns but also provide a balanced offensive attack. Etienne's versatility as both a runner and receiver would complement RJ Harvey's role as a pass-catching back, enhancing the overall offensive dynamics.
Looking at the broader NFL landscape, investing in a top running back has proven beneficial for teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers. The Broncos could follow suit, especially with their favorable cap situation compared to the Chiefs and Jaguars, both of whom are facing financial constraints.
Etienne's track record speaks for itself. Over four healthy NFL seasons, he's accumulated over 5,000 yards, showcasing his reliability and consistency. In 2025 alone, he ran for 1,107 yards with an average of 4.3 yards per carry, demonstrating his ability to stay productive throughout the season.
A potential three-year, $30 million deal for Etienne would be a strategic move for the Broncos, instantly elevating their offense and alleviating past struggles in the run game. With Etienne in the backfield, Denver could solidify its status as a formidable contender in the league.