The Denver Broncos did not select a running back in the 2023 NFL draft, sparking speculation that the team might add a veteran free agent.
During an appearance on SportsCenter on Sunday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler named the Broncos as “a team to watch” for Kareem Hunt. It’s unclear if that was simply Folwer’s opinion, or an informed statement based on information he has about Denver’s potential interest in the running back.
Hunt, 27, spent the first two years of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs before joining the Cleveland Browns in 2019. The Chiefs cut Hunt during the 2018 season after a video was released showing him shoving and kicking a woman. Hunt was not charged for the incident, but he served an eight-game suspension in 2019.
In four career games against the Broncos, Hunt has totaled 364 yards from scrimmage and scored three touchdowns. Over the last four years in Cleveland, Hunt has totaled 2,847 yards from scrimmage and scored 23 touchdowns.
The Broncos could use more depth at running back because Javonte Williams (knee) is facing an uncertain recovery timeline and he might not be ready by Week 1. Samaje Perine is a capable fill-in starter, but Denver will need more depth behind him if Williams misses time early in the season.
Lou Ayeni, the Broncos’ new running backs coach, coached at Toledo while Hunt played at the school, so Denver’s staff does have a connection to the RB.
The list of notable free agent RBs still available also includes Ezekiel Elliott, Leonard Fournette and J.D. McKissic. Phillip Lindsay is also a free agent after playing in the XFL this spring and his agent has reached out to Denver about a potential reunion.
With limited salary cap space, the Broncos seem unlikely to make a splash signing at running back, but a budget free agent could be in play.
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