Broncos roster: RB Audric Estime (No. 23) looking to win a role in crowded backfield
Broncos Wire's 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at second-year running back Audric Estime, No. 23.
Before the Broncos: Estime (5-11, 277 pounds) was a three-year player for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish from 2021-23. Estime was the featured back in the Irish backfield in 2022 and 2023, after having a relatively quiet freshman year in 2021, with seven carries for 60 yards.
In 2022, Estime had a great year, lugging the rock 156 times for 920 yards (leading all independents) and 11 rushing touchdowns, additionally catching nine passes for 135 yards and one touchdown. Estime's 12 touchdowns from scrimmage were the most among independents in 2022.
In 2023, Estime got even better. Estime had 210 carries, leading all independents for the second year in rushing yards with 1,341 yards, as well as leading independents in yards per carry (6.4), and rushing touchdowns (18). Estime also had 17 catches for 142 yards. Estime's collegiate production was so appealing that he was selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round (147th overall) of the 2024 NFL draft.
Broncos tenure: Estime's rookie year was a unique one in Denver. At first, Estime was backing up 2023 starter Javonte Williams and playing a reserve role in the backfield. Estime then had an injury stint, and the backfield later evolved into a three-back unit between Williams, Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin. Later in the year, Estime and McLaughlin got increasingly more carries, pushing Williams out of the limelight. Estime finished 2024 with 310 yards on 76 carries and two touchdowns. Estime also caught five passes out of the backfield for 27 yards.
Chances to make the 53-man roster: Likely. Estime looks to compete for the No. 3 running back job behind RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins. Surprise cuts happen every year in the NFL, but Estime is likely to make the squad.
Related: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.
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