NFL Analyst Brian Baldinger Discusses Which Running Back the Broncos Should Trade Up For in the Draft and More
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams across the league are refining their strategies to make the most out of their picks. For the Denver Broncos, who are looking to make a significant impact next season, the running back position has become a hot topic. In a recent interview, NFL analyst Brian Baldinger shared his insights on which running back the Broncos should target in the upcoming draft and why they might need to trade up to secure him.
The Broncos’ Need for a Star Running Back
The Broncos’ running back situation has been a source of concern for several years. Despite having capable backs on the roster, the team has struggled to establish a consistent ground game. With a revamped coaching staff and a commitment to building a more dynamic offense, it’s clear that the Broncos need a playmaking back who can both run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield.
Baldinger believes that the Broncos’ offense could take a significant step forward if they land the right running back in this draft. “It’s no secret that the Broncos need a game-changing running back,” Baldinger explained. “They’ve had flashes of talent, but nothing that’s been able to sustain the consistency they need in the running game. A top-tier running back could open up their playbook and give their quarterback more options.”
The Running Back to Trade Up For
According to Baldinger, one running back stands out as a prime candidate for the Broncos to target: Javon ‘J.J.’ Williams from the University of Georgia. Williams, known for his combination of size, speed, and vision, has been climbing up draft boards and is projected to be one of the top backs available.
“J.J. Williams has the physical tools to be a star in the NFL,” Baldinger stated. “He’s 6’2” and 220 pounds, which gives him the power to break tackles, but he also has the agility and burst to hit the edge. What stands out is his vision—he sees holes develop before they do, and he’s patient enough to let plays develop, which is something the Broncos have been missing.”
Baldinger believes that Williams’ dual-threat capabilities as a runner and receiver make him an ideal fit for Denver. With a quarterback like Russell Wilson under center, having a running back who can contribute in both phases of the game would open up more opportunities in play-action and passing schemes.
Why the Broncos Need to Trade Up
The challenge for the Broncos lies in the positioning of their draft picks. Currently, the Broncos are slated to pick later in the first round, and it’s unclear whether Williams will be available by the time they are on the clock. Baldinger suggests that Denver may need to trade up to secure him.
“Denver has a few ways to move up if they really want Williams,” Baldinger explained. “They’ve got a solid foundation, but if they’re serious about taking their offense to the next level, they might need to make a bold move. I would expect them to look at teams like the Carolina Panthers or the New England Patriots, who could be willing to trade back in the first round.”
While trading up would require a significant investment, Baldinger argues that landing a star running back could be the missing piece for the Broncos’ offense. “We’re talking about a potential franchise player here,” Baldinger said. “If Denver doesn’t go after him now, they might regret it for years.”
More on the Broncos’ Draft Strategy
In addition to his thoughts on the running back position, Baldinger also weighed in on the Broncos’ overall draft strategy. He emphasized that while adding a top-tier running back is crucial, Denver also needs to address other positions, particularly along the offensive line and at cornerback.
“Russell Wilson needs protection, and they need depth at cornerback to match up against some of the top receivers in the AFC West,” Baldinger pointed out. “The Broncos can’t afford to ignore those areas, but if they can trade up and get Williams, it’s a game-changer for their offense.”
As the NFL Draft draws closer, the Denver Broncos are in a position to make a big move that could reshape their offense. Brian Baldinger’s analysis suggests that trading up to select Javon Williams could be the perfect way to bring a dynamic, multi-dimensional running back into the fold. With the right moves in the draft, the Broncos could not only improve their running game but also provide Russell Wilson with the tools he needs to lead the team back to playoff contention.
If the Broncos do decide to trade up for Williams, it would be a statement of intent: they are serious about competing in a competitive AFC West and building a more explosive offense. The next few weeks leading up to the draft will undoubtedly be critical for Denver as they finalize their strategy for a brighter future.