The Denver Broncos have wrapped up the initial wave of NFL free agency, addressing most of their major needs, but one critical position remains unfilled: the running back spot. With Javonte Williams departing for the Dallas Cowboys, the Broncos currently rely on Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, Tyler Badie, and Blake Watson. None of these players have emerged as clear starters, prompting head coach Sean Payton to seek a more dynamic option.

Luckily for the Broncos, the upcoming NFL draft features a robust class of running backs. Holding seven picks, including the 20th overall in the first round, the team is well-positioned to draft a new starting back. While Payton may not chase Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty without making a trade, it’s likely Denver will bolster its backfield during the draft.

The Denver Broncos are poised for significant changes in their running back position as reports indicate that Javonte Williams, the team's leading rusher, is unlikely to be re-signed this offseason. Williams, hindered by injuries and reduced performance, clocked only 513 rushing yards with a disappointing average of 3.6 yards per carry post-injury. Despite being a standout in previous seasons, his struggles have prompted the Broncos to reassess their options, likely seeking a new starter through free agency or the draft.

With Williams potentially heading out, Jaleel McLaughlin is set to return as a backup, though the Broncos will explore additional candidates to fill the starting role. Audric Estime's chances of earning a starting position hinge on improving his receiving and blocking skills, while rookies like Tyler Badie and Blake Watson need strong performances in preseason to secure spots on the roster. Coach Sean Payton emphasized the necessity of a robust running back group, suggesting the team will seek to have multiple effective options moving forward.

The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to rest key players including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chris Jones in their regular-season finale against the Denver Broncos, having already secured a playoff bye with a remarkable 15-1 record. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz will take over for Mahomes, while other starters such as Isiah Pacheco, Trent McDuffie, and Jawaan Taylor will also be inactive.

For the Denver Broncos, the stakes couldn't be higher. With a 9-7 record, they must win to secure a playoff berth for the first time since Super Bowl 50. The Broncos have faced disappointment in their last two games, missing opportunities to clinch a playoff spot. Inactives for Denver include Blake Watson, Levelle Bailey, Frank Crum, Matt Henningsen, and Eyioma Uwazurike, with Zach Wilson designated as the emergency quarterback.

The Kansas City Chiefs are opting to rest several key players, including Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, in their final regular season game against the Denver Broncos. With a stellar 15-1 record and the top seed in the AFC secured, the Chiefs will see backup quarterback Carson Wentz take center stage. Coach Andy Reid confirmed that running back Isiah Pacheco and cornerback Trent McDuffie will also sit out.

In contrast, the Broncos face a must-win situation to keep their playoff hopes alive. With a record of 9-7, Denver hasn't reached the playoffs since their Super Bowl victory in 2015. The stakes are high for the Broncos, who have lost two crucial games recently, placing them in a position where only a win against Kansas City can secure their playoff entry.

The NFL's business side remains unforgiving, even during the holiday season, as demonstrated by the Denver Broncos' recent roster decision. Cornerback Levi Wallace was waived on Christmas Eve, prompting head coach Sean Payton to express the difficulty of such choices while aiming to protect the team's roster.

In a strategic move, the Broncos signed running back Blake Watson to the active roster, indicating their desire to keep Wallace if he goes unclaimed on waivers. With the return of starting cornerback Riley Moss and the rise of rookie Kris Abrams-Draine, the Broncos feel confident in their cornerback lineup.