Player Profile
Age: 25 | Experience: Second year | College: Missouri | Height: 5’8” | Weight: 197 pounds
Tyler Badie finally found some rhythm in the NFL during the 2024 season, and now the fourth-year running back is aiming to build on that momentum as he fights for a place on the Denver Broncos’ 53-man roster in 2025.
Though he’s been in the league for four seasons, Badie has only suited up for Denver over the past two. Last year, he appeared in three regular-season games, posting 86 rushing yards on 11 carries and adding three receptions. He also saw limited action in the Broncos’ playoff game against the Buffalo Bills, rushing twice for eight yards.
Badie’s breakout moment came in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, when he led the team with 70 rushing yards on nine carries. That performance sparked hope that he could carve out a regular role, but it didn’t pan out. Now, he’s looking to recapture that spark to earn a roster spot once again.
The challenge ahead is steep. Denver’s running back room has undergone a major overhaul. Rookies R.J. Harvey and free-agent addition J.K. Dobbins are expected to be the top two backs, likely soaking up the majority of touches in Sean Payton’s offense. That leaves limited opportunities for players like Badie.
Behind them, Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin are in the mix. Estime offers a bruising, between-the-tackles style and strong pass-blocking ability—skills that neither Badie nor McLaughlin possess. With Estime and Dobbins viewed as the team’s power runners, the final spot likely comes down to McLaughlin or Badie.
McLaughlin holds the edge in experience, having contributed solidly over the past two seasons. That means Badie will need an exceptional training camp and preseason to leapfrog him on the depth chart.
Still, there are reasons to believe in Badie. A standout during his time at the University of Missouri, he played in 46 games and racked up 2,740 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, while also adding over 1,100 receiving yards and 11 scores. His senior year was historic—setting a school record with 1,604 rushing yards, along with 14 touchdowns, earning him All-SEC and PFF All-America honors.
Despite being a long shot to make the roster, Badie offers traits that appeal to the coaching staff. Head coach Sean Payton has praised his pass-blocking skills—calling him “very good”—and his explosiveness as a runner and pass-catcher adds versatility.
While the most realistic outcome might be a return to the practice squad, Badie could force Denver’s hand with a strong showing in camp. Stranger things have happened—and if he puts it all together, a roster spot isn’t out of the question.
