In the Denver Broncos’ Week 3 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team received a huge boost in the running game from a player most around the league didn’t expect.
Tyler Badie (and yes, his name is pronounced “Bidet” not Bay-dee) left another good impression with the opportunities he had on Sunday. Badie had a good showing in the preseason, but he was behind a traffic jam of running backs, even though it seemed clear that Samaje Perine would no longer be in the team’s plans.
He was released and then re-signed to the team’s practice squad. Last week, he was elevated from the practice squad following Audric Estime’s injury. He had just one rushing attempt against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but gained 16 yards on that run, prompting questions about whether he needs more chances.
Sean Payton answered this question on Monday after the Week 2 loss, but it didn’t seem to be something he was too concerned about. However, he gave Badie a lot more time in Week 3 and it paid off.
Badie continued where he left off in the preseason, racking up yards every time he touched the ball and averaging nearly eight yards per carry on his nine rushing attempts. He finished the game with a team-high 70 yards receiving.
Broncos need to integrate Tyler Badie into the offense much more often
The Broncos will likely continue to favor Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin in the running backs, but both have been largely ineffective this season. McLaughlin scored a touchdown against Tampa Bay, but he ran for just seven yards on five carries. Williams ran for 12 yards on five carries.
Is Tyler Badie now the new RB1 in Denver? #BroncosCountry
— Phillip Lindsay (@I_CU_boy) September 22, 2024
Badie was by far the most explosive running back on Sunday and that could easily continue going forward. As long as Estime continues to miss time, Badie should be on the active roster and if he plays well enough, beyond that.
The Broncos have something to offer. Badie has played well in preseason games for the Broncos in each of the last two seasons. It’s time to give him a deeper look as a major player in this offensive attack.
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