Following the 2024 NFL draft, the Denver Broncos signed Memphis running back Blake Watson as an undrafted free agent. Watson, who was one of two Division I running backs with 50 catches last fall, was considered one of the top UDFAs available after the draft.
In addition to rushing for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns, Watson also hauled in 53 receptions for 480 yards and three scores last fall. The Broncos will undoubtedly take a look at the RB’s receiving skills during training camp and preseason this summer.
“Being an extra receiver, that’s something I like to do, and I’m glad they want to do that with me,” Watson said in May.
Thanks in part to his ability to make plays as a receiver out of the backfield, Watson has drawn some comparisons to New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara. Broncos coach Sean Payton was asked if he sees similarities between the two backs this spring.
“No,” Payton said before acknowledging some similar skill sets. “Look, we use that ‘Joker’ term a little bit. That was one of the traits though that stood out. He was one of those guys again in the seventh round, sixth round [was available, and] we saw a player that was natural catching the ball. That was a big draw. When we read a player, that was a draw to his vision. What’s the vision? So now we’re learning more about him.
“I’m not making the comparison, but when [the Saints] drafted Kamara, we saw that vision, but we didn’t realize the other things in the running game. The first handoff in the preseason I think against the Chargers, he went 52 yards for a touchdown. And we were like, ‘Man, we can hand the ball off to him.’ But if you asked me the traits that attracted us to Blake, it was certainly that that we saw in the passing game, and you saw pretty good football IQ too. So good question.”
Similarly to how he handled the Bo Nix and Drew Brees buzz, Payton likely does not want to create lofty expectations by making unfair comparisons. Watson doesn’t have to be “the next Kamara” to make an impact in Denver’s offense, but he could be asked to do similar things.
“I think I’m a do-it-all-type of guy,” the rookie said. “Whatever the team needs me to do, I’m going to be able to do it. I’m excited to play my role.”
First things first, Watson will need to focus on making the active roster in a very crowded running back room. His competition for a spot on the 53-man roster includes Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine, Jaleel McLaughlin, fifth-round pick Audric Estime and Tyler Badie. Watson figures to have a future in Denver, but his first season might begin on the practice squad.
He’ll get his chance to impress once training camp begins next week.
