Sean Payton sees all his running backs as ‘bell cow’ type backs

DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 20: Jonah Coleman #20 of the Denver Broncos runs the ball during the fourth quarter of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Empower Field At Mile High on September 20, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Denver Broncos were down to their third and fourth string running backs for a period of time during their win over the Jacksonville Jaguars with rookie Jonah Coleman taking up a lion’s share of carries late in that game. He was the driving force behind Denver securing the game-clinching four-minute drive to run the clock out. Head Coach Sean Payton was asked about his ability to carry a heavier workload if necessary.

class="wp-block-paragraph">“So yesterday, RJ [Harvey] was out, and then J.K. [Dobbins] got nicked up and wasn’t able to finish,” Payton said. “None of that today on Monday is at a place where we’re—I think all three of those players we’re discussing can be bell cow, handle a majority of the carries. Yes, I think there’s a lot ahead of us this week relative to who our runners are going to be.”

class="wp-block-paragraph">By saying all three can be ‘bell cow’ type running backs all but confirms his sentiment towards Coleman in the long-term. He is that guy. That being said, in 2026 the ‘bell cow’ backs will likely continue to be J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey. That is who they have ahead of Coleman on the depth chart and — barring injury — it should remain that way. Though I wouldn’t mind seeing Coleman spell Dobbins more into a 60-40 type role. We shall see.

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