The Denver Broncos’ offseason strategy revolves around equipping quarterback Bo Nix with as many offensive weapons as possible.
In free agency, they bolstered their defense and signed tight end Evan Engram, one of the league’s premier receiving tight ends. However, their ground game struggled last season, ranking 16th in rushing yards while averaging just 4.1 yards per carry—the fourth-worst mark in the NFL.
Denver also lost its leading rusher, Javonte Williams, who signed a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys. Williams led the Broncos in 2024 with only 513 rushing yards.
In Luke Easterling’s latest four-round mock draft, he projects the Broncos selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton with the 20th overall pick. Easterling emphasized that surrounding Nix with talent should be Denver’s top priority, and adding a dynamic rusher like Hampton could be a crucial step in stabilizing the offense.
Hampton, 22, has amassed 3,164 rushing yards with a 5.9 yards-per-carry average and 30 touchdowns over the past two seasons at North Carolina. He also contributed in the passing game, recording 38 receptions for 373 yards (9.8 yards per catch).
The Broncos haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since Phillip Lindsay accomplished the feat in 2019. Now retired and working in radio, Lindsay remains the team’s last significant rushing threat.
Some teams consider Hampton the best running back in this draft class, and if he falls to Denver, he could be one of the biggest steals. His addition might significantly boost the Broncos’ offense and position them for a deep playoff run.
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