A surprise playoff appearance isn’t enough to satisfy the Denver Broncos or head coach Sean Payton. With an elite defense already in place, Payton focuses this offseason on improving the offense around Bo Nix. So far, that has only resulted in the addition of tight end Evan Engram.
But with the draft approaching, Payton will have plenty of opportunities to strengthen the weapons around Nix. He may also find the versatile offensive playmaker — or “Joker” — he’s been searching for. One analyst believes the process starts with building a strong ground game to complement the rookie quarterback’s arm talent.
Denver Broncos Predicted to Build Rushing Attack With Omarion Hampton
Thanks to Payton’s coaching and the dominance of 2024 Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II, the Broncos finished the season with the league’s top-ranked defense in PFSN’s Defense+ metric. However, their offense lagged behind, ranking a middle-of-the-pack 16th in PFSN’s Offense+ metric.
As a result, the offense is the top priority in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the latest mock draft from PFSN has Denver making a surprising pick in the first round. Rather than selecting another receiving weapon for Nix, NFL Draft analyst Jacob Infante predicts the Broncos will build their rushing attack by drafting Omarion Hampton.
The North Carolina running back had two strong final seasons at the program, surpassing 1,500 rushing yards each year while scoring 15 touchdowns in both campaigns. A capable pass-catcher as well, his receiving yardage jumped from 222 in 2023 to 373 in 2024.
With 40 total touchdowns over three years, Hampton has proven to be a dynamic playmaker. Infante wrote, “Omarion Hampton is a speedy, physical back who excels at finding open lanes between the tackles. He’d complement Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estimé well in Denver’s backfield.”
Last season, the Broncos’ rushing attack left much to be desired. No player eclipsed 513 rushing yards, with the now-departed Javonte Williams (signed with the Dallas Cowboys) leading the team in that category. Hampton could provide a significant upgrade, given his college production and explosiveness.
Additionally, while his pass-catching skills aren’t elite, they add another dimension to his game — potentially fitting the “Joker” role Payton has been seeking. His presence wouldn’t just boost the ground game but could also help take pressure off Nix in the passing attack.
Infante summarized Denver’s formula for success: “The Denver Broncos exceeded expectations in 2024, making the playoffs behind Bo Nix. To help him keep improving, they should continue adding to his supporting cast.”