Overview
The Denver Broncos are preparing for a critical evaluation during the NFL draft process by inviting prospects for team visits. These sessions provide the final opportunity to scrutinize a player’s abilities and address any questions regarding performance and health. The Broncos have scheduled a visit with Texas running back Jaydon Blue, a prospect known for his explosive speed despite a limited collegiate workload.
Speed and Athleticism
Blue has demonstrated remarkable quickness as an electric, smaller running back. At his pro day, he recorded a 40-yard dash time under 4.3 seconds, surpassing his previous performance at the NFL Combine. This speed showcases his potential to create explosive plays, making him an enticing figure on the field.
Injury Concerns and Recovery
Despite his impressive athleticism, Blue’s journey has been shadowed by injury issues. He reportedly dealt with a torn groin during the NFL Combine, an injury that was discovered after the event and may have affected his performance. Further adding to the uncertainty, an injury during the 2024 season raised additional questions about his durability. These concerns are critical for teams looking to ensure that a player can maintain peak performance over a demanding season.
Limited On-Field Production
Blue’s tenure at Texas saw him accumulate 270 touches across various roles, including rushing, receiving, and returning. This volume of usage is significantly lower than what is typically associated with a successful transition to the NFL, where higher touch counts have historically correlated with better prospects. The relatively sparse action has left several key aspects of his game, particularly in pass protection, unproven.
Fumble Issues and Ball Security
A significant drawback in Blue’s game is his ball security. His collegiate career shows a fumble frequency as high as one every 30 touches, a rate that stands out as the worst in over a decade among entering NFL backs. Even when accounting for potential injuries that might have contributed to his fumbling, his numbers remain a concern. Teams value possession highly in the modern NFL, and this aspect of his play could prove problematic if not adequately addressed.
Broncos’ Evaluation Process
The visit by the Broncos indicates a strong interest in understanding the full scope of Blue’s abilities and limitations. As they weigh his exceptional speed against injury history and ball security issues, the Broncos will need to determine whether his raw talent can be harnessed effectively in the NFL. This evaluation will be a defining moment in deciding if Blue can overcome his developmental challenges to become a reliable contributor at the professional level.