Fowler notes that Etienne Jr. has “AFC West love” from the Broncos and Chiefs, but that both teams will check in on Kenneth Walker and others depending on their price ranges.
> _I’m hearing Walker will consider the Giants and Commanders among his options, with the Titans as a possibility, too. Etienne has AFC West love via Denver and Kansas City. Both of those teams could check on Walker and others, too, depending on price ranges._
Etienne is coming off a big 2025 season where he had nearly 1,400 total yards from scrimmage, 1,107 yards rushing, and 13 total touchdowns. He fits the Sean Payton offense and would give the Broncos an explosive running back in the run and pass game.
Another thing to like about Etienne is his durability. He has played in 17 regular-season games in all but one season during his career, which came in 2024, but he still played in 15 games that year. This is key after the Broncos had oft-injured JK Dobbins on the roster last season, who would go on to suffer a season-ending foot injury during their week 10 victory over the Raiders. Having a back who can stay healthy for the Broncos’ postseason push and hopefully, a Super Bowl run, will be beneficial for them.
It appears the Broncos will be battling their AFC West rival Kansas City Chiefs, for Etienne’s services. Like the Broncos, the Chiefs are expected to be heavy players in the running back market, and it appears the two teams could get into a bidding war for Etienne. If the Chiefs do lane Etienne, the Broncos’ other options include Kenneth Walker, Tyler Allgeier, and re-signing veteran JK Dobbins.
The Broncos look poised to make a splash at running back, so I believe they will be aggressive in their pursuit of one. They were heavily linked to Breece Hall before he was Franchise Tagged, and were late players in the David Montgomery trade, and upped the trade return. With them missing out on two of their top targets, I believe they will make sure they get their guy in free agency.
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