As the Denver Broncos gear up for the upcoming NFL season, the spotlight shines brightly on their revamped running back corps. With the addition of seasoned veteran J.K. Dobbins and promising rookie RJ Harvey, the Broncos are poised to inject some much-needed dynamism into their ground game.

A Fresh Start for the Broncos' Backfield

Coach Sean Payton has expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions, emphasizing the importance of versatility and playmaking ability in his running backs. "When a play is blocked, you want to see that yardage and then some," Payton remarked. "The good runners, they add a little spaghetti sauce to the recipe, and that's important."

Last season, the Broncos' rushing attack was inconsistent, leading to significant changes in the offseason. The departure of Javonte Williams to the Dallas Cowboys opened the door for fresh talent. Denver wasted no time, trading up in the draft to select RJ Harvey from UCF and later signing J.K. Dobbins to a one-year deal.

The Impact of J.K. Dobbins

Dobbins, a sixth-year veteran, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to a relatively young running back room. "I feel like I'm where I need to be," Dobbins said. "I know this room is also young. I want to help them grow as NFL players, because it can be tough."

Coming off a career-high 905 rushing yards with the Chargers in 2024, despite missing four games due to an MCL sprain, Dobbins is expected to be a key contributor. His ability as a pass blocker and his intelligence on third downs have already earned him praise from Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.

The Rise of RJ Harvey

Meanwhile, rookie RJ Harvey has shown flashes of brilliance during offseason workouts. Known for his vision and explosiveness, Harvey ran for 10-plus yards on a class-best 23% of his carries in 2024. Dobbins has high hopes for his new teammate, stating, "He's going to be really good. He's going to help me out, and I'm going to help him out. He's going to be great."

Training Camp: The Ultimate Test

Payton has made it clear that the depth chart will be determined during training camp. "When that time comes, you guys are going to know just like I'm going to know," Payton said. "You're going to see it."

Both Dobbins and Harvey will need to showcase their unique skills and adaptability to secure their roles. With the Broncos' offensive line consistently ranking among the best in run blocking, the stage is set for these running backs to shine.

Looking Ahead

As the Broncos aim to improve their rushing statistics from last season, the addition of Dobbins and Harvey could be the catalyst they need. With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, Denver's running game is ready to take the next step under Payton's guidance.