Broncos Add Offensive Firepower in Latest Mock Draft Projection
This offseason, the Denver Broncos are focused on building a strong supporting cast around quarterback Bo Nix. In free agency, Denver bolstered its defense and added star tight end Evan Engram, known as one of the league’s top receiving tight ends.
However, the Broncos’ rushing attack struggled last season, ranking 16th in total rushing yards and averaging just 4.1 yards per carry — the fourth-worst in the NFL. To make matters worse, leading rusher Javonte Williams signed a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys after posting just 513 rushing yards in 2024.
In Luke Easterling’s latest four-round NFL mock draft for Athlon Sports, he projects the Broncos selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton with the 20th overall pick. Easterling explains that Denver’s priority should be giving Nix as much help as possible, starting with improving the ground game. “Hampton’s ability as both a runner and receiver makes him a dangerous weapon on every down, giving head coach Sean Payton a true feature back to balance the offense and ease the pressure on Nix,” Easterling wrote.
Hampton, 22, had an impressive collegiate career at North Carolina, rushing for 3,164 yards and 30 touchdowns while averaging 5.9 yards per carry over the past two seasons. He also added value in the passing game, catching 38 passes for 373 yards and averaging 9.8 yards per reception.
The Broncos haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since Phillip Lindsay reached that milestone in 2019. With some analysts viewing Hampton as the top running back in this draft class, landing him at No. 20 could be a huge win for Denver. If the Broncos secure Hampton, it would significantly boost their offense and improve their chances of making a deep playoff push.
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