Denver's backfield competition is heating up around Tyler Badie, who is emerging as a real contender for the final roster spots. Payton highlighted Badie's pass protection and his ability to contribute as a receiver on third downs, signaling a path to meaningful snaps even in a crowded room. In preseason, Badie ran five times for 32 yards and snagged two passes for nine yards, underscoring his versatility and reliability as a blocker. He sits in a tight battle with Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime for the RB3/RB4 roles, with Blake Watson also in the mix, while the team looks ahead to a Week 1 tune-up against Arizona. The takeaway for fantasy players is clear: Badie could vault into deeper-league consideration if his protection and passing-game usage stay strong and consistent, especially if he can capitalize on third-down opportunities.

Payton’s comments this offseason emphasize what separates Badie: consistent effort in pass protection and the ability to impact the game as a receiver. With veterans and rookies vying for the last two roster spots, Badie’s willingness to block and his ability to catch out of the backfield give him a tangible edge in a multi-back committee. The Broncos will again test the RB group in the upcoming game against Arizona, where the coaching staff will be watching how Badie handles reps on both running and receiving downs, and whether McLaughlin, Estime, or Watson can push ahead. For fantasy managers, Badie’s trajectory is compelling but will hinge on role clarity and clean, consistent exploitation of third-down opportunities.