The Denver Broncos are gearing up for the preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings on Friday. It will be the last opportunity for many players to showcase why they deserve to make the final 53-man roster. Additionally, it serves as another chance to correct some of the mistakes and miscues coaches have seen throughout training camp and the first two preseason games.
Last Friday, the Broncos struggled in all phases against the Green Bay Packers. However, one big issue was the lack of efficiency with their rushing attack. They barely averaged 3 yards per carry and gained just 70 yards total on the ground. That is a far cry from their win over the Atlanta Falcons where they rushed for over 160 yards.
After yesterday’s practice, Offensive Coordinator Davis Webb spoke about that issue, but expressed confidence in the offensive line and running backs to put their best foot forward this week and perform at a much better level.
“I think Green Bay came in here and played really, really well. I thought there were a few flashes in the run game. Then we got called back for holding or something happened, we were second-and-long, or we just got into really bad situations down and distance-wise. That was good for me to learn from as a play caller for upcoming weeks, and I’m sure our offensive line and runners will get it going this week,” stated Webb.
DENVER, CO - AUGUST 21: Offensive coordinator Davis Webb looks over a play sheet during a preseason game between the Green Bay Packers and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on August 21, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - AUGUST 21: Offensive coordinator Davis Webb looks over a play sheet during a preseason game between the Green Bay Packers and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on August 21, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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Over the past three years, the Broncos have ranked in the middle of the pack amongst NFL teams when it comes to total rushing yards, yards per carry, and rushing yards per game. In 2023 and 2024, they were well below-average with respect to rushing touchdowns. Though they made big strides with that last season notching 18 total touchdowns on the ground.
In order for the offense to reach their true potential, Denver is going to need to establish a consistent and formidable rushing attack. This past draft, they added Jonah Coleman to help keep the ground game strong. Coleman’s toughness and vision in between the tackles and his penchant for red zone touchdowns should be a big boost for the Broncos’ rushing attack.
Additionally, the continuity of the offensive line should be huge. Every starter from the past two seasons is slated to return, as well as several promising backup players who’ve been able to play well when asked. Webb lauded the offensive line’s abilities yet indicated they can improve in the run game.
“I’ve never been around somewhere that’s been about to be four straight years of basically the same offensive line. It’s such a blessing because they’re good dudes, they’re coached well, they’re nasty, they take things personal,” added Webb.
ATLANTA, GA - AUGUST 14: The Denver Broncos offensive line prepare to snap the football during the Friday evening NFL preseason football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Denver Broncos on August 14, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - AUGUST 14: The Denver Broncos offensive line prepare to snap the football during the Friday evening NFL preseason football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Denver Broncos on August 14, 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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“I think pass block-wise, they’ve been pretty consistent over the last few years and run-game wise, I think we’re trying to build on that consistency. Not saying it’s been bad, but we can definitely be more consistent. That’s a goal that we’ve tried to address this offseason.”
Being able to move the ball on the ground consistently will be extremely important if the Broncos hope to make their Super Bowl aspirations come true. In the last several seasons, running the ball late in the season has been an issue. If they can correct that, it will help alleviate the pressure off of Bo Nix, who led the league in passing attempts last season.
Just how good can the Broncos be in 2026? That will hinge on a lot of things, but there is no doubt having a top-tier rushing attack will be crucial for success this season.