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The Denver Broncos went through a lot of changes this offseason, including letting go of both safety Justin Simmons and quarterback Russell Wilson. The team replaced Wilson with Bo Nix -- who they drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
However, more changes could be on the horizon, as Denver could cut one of its more experienced running backs ahead of Week 1. Javonte Williams or Samaje Perine could be cut candidates after training camp.
So, will the Broncos release Williams or Perine this offseason? Let's dive in and find out.
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Broncos 2024 Running Back Depth Chart
The Broncos will surely have a job battle at the running back position in training camp this offseason. As of now, Williams, Perine, Jaleel McLaughlin, and rookie Audric Estime are the top four backs currently in Denver's offense. The expectation is that one of them will be cut before Week 1.
Williams was the team's RB1 last year, but he really struggled in his first season back from a torn ACL. Perine is on the older side at 28 years old and could take a backseat in 2024. That makes one of them the most likely to be cut.
#Broncos HC Sean Payton on Javonte Williams yesterday: “He’s been looking good. I think historically speaking, when you talk to the experts, they say that the complete heal finishes at two years. Obviously you begin playing before then, but he’s been doing well. He’s in shape. I… pic.twitter.com/L0HfmzQXwr
— Cody Roark (@CodyRoarkNFL) May 31, 2024
McLaughlin was the Broncos' most explosive back in 2023, running for 410 yards and one touchdown. So, his spot on the roster should be safe heading into the year. Estime's spot should also be safe after being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. That leaves Williams or Perine on the roster bubble heading into training camp.
Will The Broncos Release Javonte Williams or Samaje Perine?
No one knows what the Broncos will do with their running back group before Week 1, but carrying four running backs heading into the season likely won't happen. As a result, look for Denver to cut either Williams or Perine this offseason.
It's hard to envision the Broncos cutting Williams in August, considering the 24-year-old is now almost two full years removed from tearing his ACL. So, the young back should be in store for a much better year. Just look at what he did back in his rookie season in 2021, running for 903 yards and four touchdowns.
Beat: Perine and Javonte battling for roster spot https://t.co/EDJYwTvmmw
— Rotoworld Football (@rotoworld_fb) July 20, 2024
That leaves Perine as the likeliest back to be cut ahead of September. The veteran showed some encouraging things in 2023, but there's a strong possibility that he is the odd man out. In a rebuilding year for Denver, the 28-year-old -- who is in the last year of his contract -- could be gone.
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