The 2021 NFL season has seen a resurgence of the running back position, thanks in large part to the impressive performance of Saquon Barkley. The New York Giants star has taught NFL teams that the running back position is still a valuable commodity, and more teams are now reinvesting in their backfield in hopes of replicating the success of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl championship.
One team that has taken notice of this trend is the Denver Broncos. The Broncos have not had a true standout running back since the days of Terrell Davis, and it’s clear that they are eager to change that. In fact, head coach Sean Payton recently spoke out about his interest in Ohio State’s J.K. Dobbins, making it clear that the Broncos are serious about upgrading their running game.
Payton’s interest in Dobbins is not surprising, as the young running back has been making a name for himself in the college football world. In his junior year at Ohio State, Dobbins rushed for 2,003 yards and 21 touchdowns, earning him First-Team All-Big Ten honors and placing him among the top running backs in the nation.
But what exactly makes Dobbins such an attractive prospect for the Broncos? Let’s take a closer look at his skills and how he could fit into the Broncos’ offense.
First and foremost, Dobbins has exceptional speed and agility, making him a threat to break off big runs at any given moment. He has a quick burst off the line of scrimmage and can quickly change direction, leaving defenders grasping at air. This type of explosiveness is exactly what the Broncos need in their backfield, as it will add a new dimension to their offense and keep opposing defenses on their toes.
In addition to his speed, Dobbins also has great vision and patience, allowing him to find the holes in the defense and make the most out of each carry. He is also a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield, making him a versatile weapon for any offense. With the Broncos’ quarterback situation still up in the air, having a reliable running back who can also contribute in the passing game will be crucial.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of Dobbins’ game is his durability. In college, he played through injuries and never missed a game, showcasing his toughness and determination. This is a crucial trait for any running back in the NFL, where the physicality of the game can take a toll on players. With Dobbins, the Broncos can have confidence that they will have a reliable and durable back for years to come.
Of course, there are still some areas where Dobbins can improve, such as his pass-blocking and route-running. But these are skills that can be developed with the right coaching, and with the Broncos’ strong offensive line and experienced coaching staff, Dobbins has the potential to become a complete and dominant running back in the NFL.
It’s clear that Payton and the Broncos are serious about adding Dobbins to their roster, and it’s easy to see why. His combination of speed, agility, and durability make him an ideal fit for the Broncos’ offense, and his potential for growth and development make him an exciting prospect for any team in need of a running back.
The running back position may have lost some of its value in recent years, with the rise of pass-heavy offenses and the devaluation of the running game. But Saquon Barkley’s impressive performance and the Eagles’ Super Bowl win have shown that a strong running game is still a crucial component of a successful team. With the potential addition of J.K. Dobbins, the Broncos could be on their way to building a dominant backfield and making a strong run for the Super Bowl in the near future.
