Broncos: 3 offensive positions team could target with top 2021 pick

Offensive positions Broncos could consider with top 2021 pick

2. Running back

This might drive a lot of fans absolutely nuts, but running back might not be off the table with the Broncos’ top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

The 9th overall pick is very rich for a running back, so this might come if the team decides to trade down once or twice, but I don’t think the possibility can be ruled out.

Running back is a much bigger need for the Broncos in 2021 than anyone really cares to admit.

Melvin Gordon’s status with the team is up in the air as he faces a DUI charge and possible three-game suspension from the NFL. If convicted, the Broncos could decide to void the guarantees in his contract and move on entirely.

Phillip Lindsay is a restricted free agent. Although it would be unwise for the price (just over $3 million) the Broncos could decide to part ways with the Colorado kid and two-time 1,000-yard rusher.

Royce Freeman is in a contract year and has not shown the same type of upside as he did early on in his 2018 rookie season.

The Broncos’ offense under Pat Shurmur requires a back that can really help the team on all three downs, and it just so happens that this draft class has a wide variety of guys — especially at the top — who could be instant impact players in that regard.

Alabama’s Najee Harris, Clemson’s Travis Etienne, and North Carolina’s Javonte Williams and Michael Carter could be prioritized early.