Sports & Competition
Tue, July 29, 2025
[ Today @ 07:04 PM ]: USA TODAY
[ Today @ 06:44 PM ]: Mantel
[ Today @ 06:25 PM ]: ESPN
[ Today @ 06:24 PM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 06:05 PM ]: WTNH Hartford
[ Today @ 05:46 PM ]: Southern Minn
[ Today @ 05:45 PM ]: Chowhound
[ Today @ 05:44 PM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 05:24 PM ]: Colts Wire
[ Today @ 04:44 PM ]: MassLive
[ Today @ 04:24 PM ]: Fox News
[ Today @ 04:04 PM ]: IndieWire
[ Today @ 03:46 PM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 03:44 PM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 01:04 PM ]: National Hockey League
[ Today @ 12:44 PM ]: BBC
[ Today @ 12:24 PM ]: Associated Press
[ Today @ 11:45 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 11:44 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 11:06 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 11:05 AM ]: The Irish News
[ Today @ 11:04 AM ]: Athlon Sports
[ Today @ 10:44 AM ]: BBC
[ Today @ 10:25 AM ]: Forbes
[ Today @ 10:24 AM ]: Madrid Universal
[ Today @ 09:44 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 09:04 AM ]: WLNS Lansing
[ Today @ 08:24 AM ]: Broncos Wire
[ Today @ 08:05 AM ]: WBAY
[ Today @ 08:04 AM ]: BBC
[ Today @ 07:26 AM ]: Barca Universal
[ Today @ 07:25 AM ]: WGME
[ Today @ 07:24 AM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 07:04 AM ]: BBC
[ Today @ 06:44 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 06:25 AM ]: WCJB
[ Today @ 06:24 AM ]: HuffPost
[ Today @ 06:05 AM ]: EPL Index
[ Today @ 06:04 AM ]: Athlon Sports
[ Today @ 05:46 AM ]: Deadline
[ Today @ 05:45 AM ]: Fox 11 News
[ Today @ 05:44 AM ]: The Hollywood Reporter
[ Today @ 04:44 AM ]: The Independent
[ Today @ 04:04 AM ]: Democrat and Chronicle
[ Today @ 03:24 AM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 02:44 AM ]: WGME
[ Today @ 12:45 AM ]: WSPA Spartanburg
[ Today @ 12:44 AM ]: WFMZ-TV
[ Today @ 12:44 AM ]: The New York Times
[ Today @ 12:04 AM ]: WCMH
Mon, July 28, 2025
[ Yesterday Evening ]: OneFootball
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Daily Inter Lake, Kalispell, Mont.
[ Yesterday Evening ]: WVNS Bluefield
[ Yesterday Evening ]: WCIA Champaign
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Post-Bulletin, Rochester, Minn.
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: The Sun
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: The Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: KREX articles
[ Yesterday Evening ]: POWDER Magazine
[ Yesterday Evening ]: sportskeeda.com
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: syracuse.com
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: WGME
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Fox 13
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: On3
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The Hollywood Reporter
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The New York Times
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Celtics Wire
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: AtoZ Sports
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The Indianapolis Star
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: WHTM
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Fox Sports
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Daytime Confidential
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Yahoo Sports
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The New York Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Parents
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Motley Fool
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Wrap
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Rolling Stone
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Forbes
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Colts Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Bears Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: on3.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Cleveland.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: NBC Sports Philadelphia
[ Yesterday Morning ]: LA Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Forbes
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Morning ]: BBC
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Stretty News
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The New York Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Morning ]: BBC
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Morning ]: KHON Honolulu
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Straits Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: OneFootball
[ Yesterday Morning ]: on3.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: WHBF Davenport
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Enquirer
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The New York Times
Sun, July 27, 2025
[ Last Sunday ]: Her Campus
[ Last Sunday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: Buffaloes Wire
[ Last Sunday ]: Entertainment Weekly
[ Last Sunday ]: The 4th Official
[ Last Sunday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: The New Zealand Herald
[ Last Sunday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: Newsweek
[ Last Sunday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: syracuse.com
[ Last Sunday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: The Hockey News
[ Last Sunday ]: The Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: The Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: The Spun
[ Last Sunday ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Last Sunday ]: on3.com
[ Last Sunday ]: Jets Wire
[ Last Sunday ]: The Spokesman-Review, Spokane, Wash.
[ Last Sunday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: Reuters
[ Last Sunday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: sportskeeda.com
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: Richmond
[ Last Sunday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: The Sports Rush
[ Last Sunday ]: The Athletic
[ Last Sunday ]: The Boston Globe
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: Basketball Network
[ Last Sunday ]: SB Nation
[ Last Sunday ]: Forbes
[ Last Sunday ]: Staten Island Advance
[ Last Sunday ]: Cleveland.com
[ Last Sunday ]: ESPN
[ Last Sunday ]: Sky Sports
[ Last Sunday ]: OneFootball
[ Last Sunday ]: BBC
[ Last Sunday ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Last Sunday ]: WDAF
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Sunday ]: Cleveland.com
[ Last Sunday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Sunday ]: Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
Sat, July 26, 2025
[ Last Saturday ]: WGME
[ Last Saturday ]: Mid Day
[ Last Saturday ]: The Quint
[ Last Saturday ]: WGME
[ Last Saturday ]: Sacramento Bee
[ Last Saturday ]: FanSided
[ Last Saturday ]: OneFootball
[ Last Saturday ]: Pharos-Tribune, Logansport, Ind.
[ Last Saturday ]: Newsweek
[ Last Saturday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Saturday ]: legit
[ Last Saturday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Saturday ]: OneFootball
[ Last Saturday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Saturday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Saturday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Saturday ]: The Sporting News
[ Last Saturday ]: MLB
[ Last Saturday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Saturday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Saturday ]: Us Weekly
[ Last Saturday ]: ClutchPoints
[ Last Saturday ]: Yahoo Sports
[ Last Saturday ]: CBSSports.com
[ Last Saturday ]: The Daily Signal
[ Last Saturday ]: syracuse.com
[ Last Saturday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Saturday ]: BBC
[ Last Saturday ]: ProFootball Talk
[ Last Saturday ]: BBC
[ Last Saturday ]: BBC
[ Last Saturday ]: BBC
[ Last Saturday ]: BBC
Broncos' running back competition will heat up in the coming weeks
//sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ompetition-will-heat-up-in-the-coming-weeks.html
Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, July 29th 2025 at 8:24 GMT by Broncos Wire🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
It's too early to make sweeping statements about the Broncos' RB situation. "We'll see how it goes once we get into the preseason," Sean Payton said.
Broncos Running Back Competition Heats Up as Training Camp Intensifies
DENVER — The Denver Broncos' backfield is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing position battles in the NFL this offseason, with a mix of established veterans, rising stars, and unproven talents all vying for carries in what promises to be a revamped offensive scheme under head coach Sean Payton. As training camp progresses, the competition among the running backs has reached a fever pitch, with each player showcasing unique skills that could tip the scales in their favor. This isn't just about who starts Week 1; it's about defining roles in a system that values versatility, pass protection, and explosive plays. With the Broncos aiming to bounce back from a disappointing season, the running back room could be the key to unlocking a more balanced attack.
At the forefront of this battle is Javonte Williams, the former second-round pick who burst onto the scene as a rookie with his bruising running style and ability to break tackles. Williams, now entering his fourth season, is looking to reclaim his status as the lead back after a devastating knee injury sidelined him for much of the previous year. Early reports from camp indicate that Williams has regained much of his pre-injury burst, displaying the same powerful cuts and vision that made him a fan favorite. In recent practices, he's been seen exploding through holes created by the offensive line, often leaving defenders grasping at air. Payton has praised Williams' work ethic, noting how he's attacked his rehabilitation with the intensity of a player fighting for his career. "Javonte's got that dog in him," Payton said during a recent media session. "He's not just running; he's imposing his will on the defense." However, questions linger about his durability. The Broncos' medical staff has been cautious with his workload, rotating him in and out to prevent any setbacks. If Williams can stay healthy, he could easily reclaim the lion's share of the touches, potentially forming a dynamic duo with quarterback Bo Nix in the passing game, where his receiving skills shine.
Challenging Williams for the top spot is Samaje Perine, the reliable veteran who joined the Broncos last season and quickly became a steady presence. Perine, with his compact build and underrated speed, excels in short-yardage situations and as a pass protector—skills that align perfectly with Payton's offensive philosophy, which draws from his successful years in New Orleans. Last season, Perine demonstrated his value by stepping up in Williams' absence, providing consistent production and even flashing some big-play ability. In camp, he's been turning heads with his improved route-running out of the backfield, catching passes from Nix with ease and turning them into chunk gains. "Samaje is the ultimate pro," offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi commented. "He knows how to read blocks, protect the quarterback, and make the most of his opportunities." Perine's experience gives him an edge in a competition where reliability could be the deciding factor, especially if the Broncos' offense leans on quick passes and check-downs to a back who can handle blitz pickups. Yet, at 28 years old, Perine isn't the long-term solution, and his role might evolve into more of a complementary piece if younger backs prove ready.
Adding fuel to the fire is Jaleel McLaughlin, the undrafted free agent who emerged as a surprise contributor last year. McLaughlin's speed and elusiveness make him a change-of-pace option that could inject explosiveness into the Broncos' ground game. Standing at just 5-foot-7, he uses his low center of gravity to dart through creases and evade tacklers, often turning what should be minimal gains into significant yardage. During the first few weeks of camp, McLaughlin has impressed with his acceleration, particularly in open-field drills where he's left linebackers in the dust. His ability to contribute on special teams as a returner adds another layer to his value, potentially securing him a roster spot even if he doesn't win the starting job. "Jaleel's got that juice," running backs coach Lou Ayeni said. "He's hungry, and he's showing he can handle a bigger role." However, McLaughlin's size raises concerns about his ability to withstand the rigors of a full NFL season, especially in pass protection where bigger backs like Williams and Perine have an advantage. If he can bulk up without losing his quickness, McLaughlin could carve out a niche similar to Darren Sproles in Payton's past offenses.
The competition doesn't stop there. The Broncos have depth pieces like Tyler Badie and perhaps even a rookie or two pushing for reps. Badie, who spent time on the practice squad last year, has shown flashes of potential with his vision and patience behind the line. In scrimmages, he's demonstrated an ability to wait for blocks to develop before hitting the hole, a trait that could earn him third-down duties. Meanwhile, the team is monitoring the progress of any incoming talents, though the focus remains on the core group. Payton has emphasized a committee approach, suggesting that the backfield will be a "by-committee" situation rather than a single workhorse. "We're going to play the hot hand," Payton explained. "Whoever's producing, whoever's protecting the ball and making plays, that's who gets the ball." This philosophy keeps everyone on their toes, as no one's spot is guaranteed.
From a strategic standpoint, this competition is crucial for the Broncos' overall offensive identity. Last season, the running game struggled with inconsistency, often forcing the team into predictable passing situations. With Nix under center, establishing a strong ground attack will be vital to keeping defenses honest and opening up play-action opportunities. The running backs' ability to contribute in the passing game—whether as receivers or blockers—will be a major factor. Williams has the all-around skill set, Perine the reliability, and McLaughlin the speed, creating a potential three-headed monster that could wear down opponents over four quarters.
As preseason games approach, the real test begins. The Broncos' first exhibition matchup will provide a glimpse into how these backs perform against live competition. Williams might get the nod for the opening series, but expect rotations to give everyone a chance to shine. Injuries, always a wildcard in the NFL, could swing the pendulum—Williams' knee history looms large, while Perine's veteran savvy might insulate him from minor setbacks. McLaughlin, with his underdog story, could be the breakout star if he capitalizes on limited opportunities.
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about this battle, with social media abuzz over practice highlights and depth chart projections. Some pundits predict Williams will reclaim his throne, while others see Perine as the steady force Payton trusts most. McLaughlin's upside has him pegged as a sleeper pick for fantasy football enthusiasts. Regardless of how it shakes out, the intensity of this competition is a positive sign for a Broncos team looking to contend in the tough AFC West. With divisional rivals like the Chiefs and Chargers boasting potent offenses, Denver needs every edge, and a revitalized running back group could be just that.
In the end, this isn't merely a positional skirmish; it's a microcosm of the Broncos' broader rebuild. Payton's influence is evident in the emphasis on competition and versatility, harkening back to his Saints days where backs like Alvin Kamara thrived in multifaceted roles. As camp heats up—both literally in the Colorado sun and figuratively in the backfield—these running backs are proving that iron sharpens iron. Whoever emerges as the leader will have earned it through sweat, grit, and performance. For the Broncos, that's the kind of foundation that could propel them back into playoff contention. The next few weeks will tell the tale, but one thing is certain: the heat is on, and the running back room is feeling it. (Word count: 1,048)
Read the Full Broncos Wire Article at:
[ https://sports.yahoo.com/article/broncos-running-back-competition-heat-120050300.html ]
Similar Sports and Competition Publications
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: AtoZ Sports
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Friday ]: Associated Press
[ Last Thursday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Wednesday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Wednesday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Wednesday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Sun, Jul 20th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Sun, Jul 20th ]: Athlon Sports
[ Fri, Jul 18th ]: Sporting News
[ Fri, Jul 18th ]: The Sporting News
