Broncos Missed Out on Signing Free-Agent RB Chris Rodriguez Jr.

The team had targeted the former Commanders running back as a potential addition to their backfield.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 1:11am

The Denver Broncos were reportedly interested in signing free-agent running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. this offseason, but he ultimately chose to sign with the Jacksonville Jaguars on a two-year deal. The Broncos had re-signed J.K. Dobbins, Tyler Badie, and Jaleel McLaughlin, but were still looking to add a more physical running back to their rotation, especially after their AFC Championship Game loss last season.

Why it matters

The Broncos' running game was an issue at times last season, and they were hoping Rodriguez could provide a physical presence to complement their existing backs. His signing with the Jaguars means the Broncos will likely need to address the position further, either through the draft or by exploring other free-agent options.

The details

According to a report from Luka Evans of The Denver Post, the Broncos were interested in signing Chris Rodriguez Jr., who spent the first three years of his career with the Washington Commanders. Rodriguez is coming off his best season, rushing for 500 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2022. The Broncos felt he would have been a perfect addition to their running back room, but Rodriguez ultimately signed a two-year, $10 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

  • The Broncos inquired about Rodriguez before he signed with the Jaguars.
  • Rodriguez signed with the Jaguars in March 2023.

The players

Chris Rodriguez Jr.

A free-agent running back who spent the first three years of his career with the Washington Commanders, where he had his best season in 2022 with 500 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns.

J.K. Dobbins

A running back for the Denver Broncos who the team re-signed this offseason.

Tyler Badie

A running back for the Denver Broncos who the team re-signed this offseason.

Jaleel McLaughlin

A running back for the Denver Broncos who the team re-signed this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“The Broncos were interested in bringing in Chris Rodriguez Jr., who was with the Washington Commanders for the first three years of his career. He is coming off his best season, rushing for 500 yards and six touchdowns while sharing the backfield in Washington last season.”

— Luka Evans, Reporter

What’s next

The Broncos may look to address their running back depth through the upcoming NFL Draft, as the free-agent market has started to dry up.

The takeaway

The Broncos' inability to sign Chris Rodriguez Jr. highlights their continued need to bolster their running game, especially after their AFC Championship Game loss last season. The team will likely need to find another physical running back to complement their existing backfield through the draft or further free-agent signings.