Sean Payton has yet to establish a dominant running game since taking over as head coach of the Denver Broncos in 2023.
Now, after losing lead rusher Javonte Williams to the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, the Broncos are searching for their next featured back.
While Denver remained quiet on the running back front in free agency, one former NFL general manager believes that’s by design.
According to ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum, the Broncos could look to the upcoming NFL Draft to fill their RB1 void, with North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton emerging as a prime candidate for their No. 20 overall pick.
Tannenbaum sees Hampton as an ideal fit in Payton’s offense – one that could remind the coach of a former star running back he developed in New Orleans.
“I just think Hampton’s speed, size, and his ability to catch, I think Sean’s going to have a tough time passing that guy up. I think he’s going to see Alvin Kamara,” Tannenbaum said.
Hampton’s stock skyrocketed after a stellar showing at the NFL Combine, further solidifying his first-round potential.
The 6-foot, 220-pound running back posted a blazing 4.46-second 40-yard dash, reinforcing his explosiveness.
Hampton made waves at North Carolina with back-to-back standout seasons, proving himself as one of the most complete backs in college football.
In 2024, he rushed for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns while adding 38 receptions for 373 yards and two more scores.
Given the depth of this year’s running back class, it remains uncertain how early Hampton will come off the board.
Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty is widely expected to be the first running back selected, but where he lands in the first round is still up in the air.
If Jeanty is taken before Denver’s pick, Hampton could become the top available RB on the board at No. 20.
Tannenbaum sees a deep class overall and thinks that over 20 running backs will end up being drafted.
Payton famously coached Alvin Kamara for five years with the New Orleans Saints, turning him into one of the league’s most dynamic offensive weapons.
Kamara made the Pro Bowl every year under Payton’s leadership – but hasn’t been selected since his coach departed in 2021.
If Payton believes Hampton has a similar skill set, passing on him at No. 20 could be a difficult decision.
Pairing a playmaking running back with second-year quarterback Bo Nix could provide Denver with a much-needed offensive spark in 2025.
With the draft fast approaching, all eyes are on the Broncos to see if Hampton becomes Payton’s next big offensive weapon.
It’s hard to forget just how special of a player Kamara was under Payton. While he still has solid years left in the league, it’s safe to assume his best days are behind him.
While much of the talk in Denver is focused on tight ends, if Payton truly sees a little Alvin Kamara in Hampton, it could potentially be a match made in heaven.
What are your thoughts on the Kamara comparisons with Hampton???
