With free agent running back options drying up, the Denver Broncos might have to fill their RB1 role in the 2025 NFL Draft. Their options include trading up for Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, spending the No. 20 selection on North Carolina's Omarion Hampton, or waiting until day two of the NFL Draft.
One of those day-two options recently visited Broncos Park. According to Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network, "The Denver Broncos hosted Ohio State RB Quinshon Judkins for a 30 visit."
The Denver Broncos hosted Ohio State RB Quinshon Judkins for a 30 visit, per a league source.
One of the premier RBs in a loaded class.
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) March 20, 2025
Judkins is one of 30 non-local prospects summoned to Denver for what is referred to as a "top 30" visit. Teams sometimes use these meetings on players they're interested in, but they can also be used on prospects with red flags.
Judkins started his collegiate career at Ole Miss, quickly becoming one of the top running backs in the nation. He finished his freshman season with 1,567 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns.
His production took a minor step-back (1,158 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns) during his second season, but he was still considered the top running back available in the transfer portal last off-season.
Despite incumbent starter TreVeyon Henderson returning to Ohio State, Judkins made the shocking decision to take his talents to Columbus, Ohio. Splitting carries took some volume away from both running backs, but the dynamic duo combined for 2,076 rushing yards and 27 combined touchdowns on the season.
If Denver doesn't want to invest first-round draft capital into the running back position, Judkins would be a nice consolation prize for head coach Sean Payton. He would bring much-needed juice to a position that has underperformed for years.
Related: Broncos Trade Pitch Sends Star Wide Receiver to AFC West Rival Raiders
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 9:01 AM.