DENVER — The Denver Broncos continue evaluating talent ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, head coach Sean Payton made it clear that this year’s running back class offers more value than what was available in free agency.

Speaking at the NFL Annual League Meeting, Payton said the Broncos recognized early on that this wasn’t a particularly strong year for free agent running backs.

“We felt like it was a pretty lean year in regards to free agency at that position, just relatively speaking,” Payton said. “But there is depth in the draft.”

That depth is exactly what teams like the Broncos are leaning into. With a focus on building a complete runningback room and maximizing offensive efficiency, Payton emphasized how positional depth across the board — including interior defensive line and running back — shapes offseason strategy.

“When you’re kind of putting this together, part of it is understanding what’s available in the draft… You’re looking to click the last click and have it all fit and get the most out of the players you sign,” he added.

A Strong Running Back Class

The 2025 draft class is widely considered deep at offensive skill positions, particularly at running back. According to Pro Football Focus, four backs stand out as potential difference-makers:

Strategic Implications for Denver

The Broncos currently have questions to answer in their backfield, especially following offseason injuries and changes in depth chart dynamics. With Javonte Williams leaving in free-agency to the Dallas Cowboys and rookie Audric Estime still very early in his career, the potential for adding a young, high-upside back through the draft remains on the table.

Payton’s comments point to a front office that’s playing the long game, understanding how positional depth in the draft can allow for flexibility elsewhere — particularly when navigating running back decisions or bolstering the trenches.

“Generally it’s easier to find [running backs] than the QB… There’s just more access to finding answers at that position,” Payton noted.

That ease of access doesn’t diminish the value of elite prospects. Rather, it positions Denver to potentially strike on a back who can make an immediate impact — especially in an offense looking to take pressure off its young quarterback, Bo Nix.

As draft night approaches, don’t be surprised if the Broncos use one of their early picks to secure a running back. With names like Hampton climbing boards, and Payton’s track record of developing versatile backs, Denver could walk away with a new offensive playmaker in April.