Denver Broncos Eyeing Omarion Hampton as Potential Draft Target
The Denver Broncos’ next big move could come in the 2025 NFL Draft, and it may finally address their biggest roster question post-free agency. With the team showing clear interest in this year’s talented running back class, North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton has emerged as a name to watch.
Hampton’s Dominance in College
Hampton is coming off a dominant 2024 campaign with the Tar Heels, racking up 1,660 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 281 carries. This marked his second consecutive season leading the ACC in all three categories, making him one of the most productive backs in the draft.
Former NFL general manager and current ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum sees Hampton as a strong fit in Denver.
“Hampton’s speed, size, and his ability to catch, I think [Broncos head coach Sean Payton]’s gonna have a tough time passing that guy up,” Tannenbaum said on the Orange and Blue Today podcast. “I think he’s gonna see Alvin Kamara.”
That comparison is significant. Kamara, a five-time Pro Bowler, was a key part of Payton’s offensive success in New Orleans. While Hampton is bigger (6’0”, 221 pounds) and not as natural a receiver as Kamara, his versatility and physical running style make him an intriguing prospect for the Broncos’ offense.
Broncos’ Draft Strategy and Running Back Options
Denver has been rumored to be eyeing a trade-up for Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, but with the depth in this year’s running back class, they could afford to wait. A similar scenario played out in 2024, when the Broncos patiently landed Bo Nix at No. 12 overall.
If Hampton falls into the right draft range, he could be a perfect addition to take pressure off Nix and help balance the Broncos’ offense.
However, despite his impressive résumé, the Broncos have yet to formally show interest in Hampton. According to 9NEWS’ Mike Klis, Denver has confirmed visits with Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins, Kansas State’s DJ Giddens, and Texas’ Jaydon Blue, but Hampton’s name has yet to surface.
Evaluating Hampton’s Fit in Denver
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein describes Hampton as a “high-volume battering ram” with the ability to power through defenders but notes his lack of vision and shiftiness.
“He runs like a downhill truck whose brake lines have been cut,” Zierlein wrote in his scouting profile. “He has the base, balance, and power to batter tacklers and reignite runs after contact.”
Pass protection is another area where Hampton needs improvement, but he has flashed enough potential in the passing game to contribute in swing passes and screens—an area where Payton has historically excelled at scheming running backs into open space.
Broncos’ Current Running Back Situation
Even after losing Javonte Williams to the Dallas Cowboys in free agency, the Broncos still have a crowded backfield. Second-year backs Audric Estime and Blake Watson join Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie, forming a group that specializes in specific roles rather than an all-around lead back.
Payton has always valued versatile playmakers, particularly what he calls “Joker” backs—running backs or tight ends with elite receiving skills who create mismatches. Hampton may not be a true “Joker” in the mold of Kamara or Reggie Bush, but his physicality and workload capacity could make him a foundational piece in Payton’s system.
Final Thoughts
The Broncos’ interest in the 2025 running back class is evident, and Hampton presents a compelling case as a potential target. His power-running style, college production, and potential in the passing game make him a logical fit, especially for a team looking to ease the burden on its young quarterback.
If Denver decides to address the position early in the draft, Hampton could provide exactly what Payton is looking for—a true workhorse capable of carrying the load in a backfield that still lacks a clear No. 1 option.
