NFL

Denver Broncos managing running back injuries ahead of Rams clash

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 24, 2026, 04:55 IST

The Denver Broncos face uncertainty in their backfield as Jonah Coleman, J.K. Dobbins, and RJ Harvey manage injuries ahead of Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams, though coach Sean Payton remains optimistic.

Denver Broncos managing running back injuries ahead of Rams clash

The Denver Broncos are navigating a challenging week for their running back corps as they prepare for a primetime showdown against the Los Angeles Rams this Sunday. Three of the team's four primary running backs were sidelined or restricted during Wednesday's practice session, casting a shadow over the depth of the backfield heading into the weekend.

Despite the injury concerns, head coach Sean Payton expressed confidence in the team's situation. When asked about the status of the position group, Payton remained brief but positive, stating, "I think we're good at that position... I think we're going to be all right."

Injury updates and backfield outlook

Rookie Jonah Coleman, who played a pivotal role in securing the team's recent victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, was absent from Wednesday's practice. Coleman sustained an ankle sprain during the win but managed to remain on the field to help close out the game, recording 33 of his 39 total rushing yards during the final 4:41 of the contest. The fourth-round pick, who scored his first career touchdown against Jacksonville, is currently undergoing treatment on the ankle.

Meanwhile, J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey were both limited participants. Dobbins, who currently leads the Broncos with 72 rushing yards on 18 carries, exited Sunday's game in the third quarter due to a left hamstring injury. Harvey, who has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in the season opener, also participated in a limited capacity. Tyler Badie remains the only running back on the active roster to participate fully in Wednesday's practice.

To bolster their options, the Broncos held workouts for running backs Jaden Nixon, Sam Scott, and Marcus Yarns on Tuesday, though no signings have been confirmed. The team also has fullback Adam Prentice and running back Cody Schrader available on the practice squad. Prentice has already been elevated twice this season, meaning he has one remaining elevation before the team would be required to sign him to the active roster to utilize him in a game.