Audric Estime faces a crowded Broncos backfield after a standout rookie season, and preseason reps reveal a possible RB5 path that’s anything but guaranteed. Denver’s rotation in the latest game featured Harvey, Dobbins, McLaughlin and Badie ahead of Estime, with Blake Watson chipping in as well. Payton confirmed the committee will continue through preseason, so Estime must consistently impress to hold a spot on the 53-man roster.

Estime carried 9 times for 41 yards in the opener, while his rookie-year line sits at 310 rushing yards on 76 attempts with 2 scores. That modest rookie production still gives him a realistic shot to survive cuts if he offers special teams value and shows improvement in pass protection and in-game usage. With two exhibition games left, fantasy managers should monitor the Broncos’ move toward a deeper rotation and whether Estime can translate his college burst into an every-down opportunity or remain a tantalizing but uncertain depth piece.

For dynasty and redraft angles, Estime’s fate depends on roster decisions and how Denver values youth vs. proven depth. If he lands on the 53, his upside hinges on increased snaps and goal-line chances as Payton’s offense evolves. If he doesn’t, derisking him to a practice squad scenario becomes plausible, making late-round write-ups and stash options critical through the remaining preseason slate.