Denver Broncos may have 1 less RB to choose from during 2025 NFL Draft as value for the position continues to increase
One of the biggest remaining needs for the Denver Broncos is at running back. More specifically, a true workhorse, three-down RB. They could find one during the 2025 NFL Draft, in which they have seven picks in. Denver will likely need to use one of their top three selections in order to get a starting caliber […]
One of the biggest remaining needs for the Denver Broncos is at running back.
More specifically, a true workhorse, three-down RB. They could find one during the 2025 NFL Draft, in which they have seven picks in. Denver will likely need to use one of their top three selections in order to get a starting caliber RB.
The reason for that? Our A to Z Sports draft guru Ian Valentino believes that the RB position will be a hot commodity in this year's draft. Many experts have linked North Carolina's Omarion Hampton to the Broncos, even as low as in the second round. However, while identifying his six bold predictions for the draft, Valentino encourages Broncos fans not to hold their breath for Hampton.
"Recent expert mock drafts have seen a significant shift after the combine, raising the question of whether Omarion Hampton will even fall out of the top 20 picks. The North Carolina running back is an outstanding prospect, and the demand for impactful running backs is at a level we haven't witnessed in at least eight years.
Hampton is deserving of a first-round selection, and teams are adjusting their strategies in a draft class that is otherwise lacking in talent at key positions. Even if Ashton Jeanty doesn't get drafted as early as he has been projected for months, Hampton's stock is higher than many believe.
Teams like Chicago, Dallas, and Cincinnati could easily justify selecting him as the second running back off the board. If Hampton is still available by the 20th pick, it would be surprising if those teams chose a position other than tight end.
This is also due to Denver's belief in their receivers, which seems to differ from public perception. Young talents like Devaughn Vele, Troy Franklin, and A.T. Perry are well-suited for Sean Payton's vertical passing scheme, even if they aren't yet established superstars who warrant Round 1 attention.However, the team is missing a top running back, and Payton has historically preferred to have a skilled backfield."
It would be disappointing if Hampton isn't available for Denver at No. 20. His stout 6-foot-1, 220 pound frame can handle carrying the load, and he can pick up the tough yards on short yardage situations. Hampton may not have the breakaway speed to rip off huge runs, but he will rarely ever get stuffed for small gains.
Hampton would round out Denver's offense and legitimize not only its running game, but play-action attack. Fortunately, this year's draft class is deep at RB. The Broncos recently hosted Ohio State's Quinshon Judkins, who would also be a good fit in Denver's offense. Other good prospects include TreVeyon Henderson, Cam Skattebo, and Kaleb Johnson.
Another factor not to be forgotten is the year in and year out unpredictability of the draft. Not only could Hampton very well be available for the Broncos to take, but there could a crazy scenario where top RB prospect Ashton Jeanty is still on the board. Regardless of who they end up with, Denver's offense could be taken to the next level with the right selection.
