Take note, fantasy football manager: the Denver Broncos might have a new lead running back.
After returning from a four-game stint on injured reserve, rookie running back Jonah Coleman led Denver's backfield with 30 snaps during a 30-16 win over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. That was nearly double the snaps given to RJ Harvey (16) and more than double the snaps given to J.K. Dobbins (14).
Coleman made the most of his opportunities, rushing nine times for 54 yards (6.0 yards per carry) and adding two receptions for 15 yards. Behind him, Dobbins got six touches and Harvey had five.
Coleman’s vision is just unreal. pic.twitter.com/S03LtsjEx8
— Robby (@Robby_NFL) October 26, 2026
“Juice," Broncos coach Sean Payton said after the game when asked what Coleman's return added to the team's
rushing attack. "He looked really good. Have to get him more touches, definitely.”
Overall, Denver's offense rushed for 159 yards on 26 attempts with two touchdowns, which was the club's highest rushing total and highest rushing average (6.1) since Week 8 of last season. Coleman was a big part of that production, and Payton said during his Monday conference call that the rookie has earned more opportunities.
Jonah Coleman feels like the first Broncos RB I can trust to find the correct lane on zone runs in years. pic.twitter.com/g7XMcQuyt8
— Frankie Abbott (@FrankiesFilm) October 26, 2026
“He played well," Payton said. "The touches he had were explosive. Like anything else, I think it’s something you earn. He’s done a good job of that.”
This likely doesn't change much for Harvey, who remains a talented receiver out of the backfield (he took a screen 52 yards for a touchdown on Sunday). But it could be bad news for Dobbins, as Coleman now appears poised to get more of the team's early-down carries. If he's available in your fantasy football league, Coleman is a must-add on the waiver wire this week.
It might not happen immediately, but it wouldn't be surprising if Coleman eventually emerges as the Broncos' new primary running back.
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Fantasy Football: Sean Payton says Jonah Coleman has earned more touches
