Broncos Release Deuce Vaughn While Running Back Competition Remains Unsettled

The Denver Broncos have trimmed their roster at running back by releasing Deuce Vaughn, a move that reflects the ongoing evaluation process within the position group. Vaughn had been signed to the practice squad in late 2025 but never appeared in a regular-season game for the team.

The decision comes as Denver continues to sort out its offensive depth chart heading into a season in which expectations are rising. While the passing game hierarchy appears more defined, the running back rotation remains unsettled.

Head coach Sean Payton and the Broncos’ offensive staff are still assessing which players best fit their system, particularly in terms of durability, pass protection, and versatility. Vaughn’s release signals that he was not part of those long-term plans.

For Vaughn, the move opens the door to another opportunity elsewhere, but it also underscores how competitive roster spots have become in Denver’s evolving offense.

1. Vaughn’s NFL Journey Faces Another Reset

Deuce Vaughn’s release marks another turning point in a career still searching for consistent footing at the NFL level. Originally a sixth-round pick in 2023, he entered the league with the Dallas Cowboys and spent two seasons there before his brief stint with Denver. Across 14 games with Dallas from 2023 to 2024, Vaughn totaled 110 rushing yards without a touchdown on 40 combined carries and receptions. While his workload was limited, he showed occasional efficiency, averaging 4.1 yards per carry during the 2024 season. Despite those flashes, Vaughn was unable to secure a stable rotational role. His move to Denver last November offered a fresh start, but he did not ultimately crack the active roster during his time with the team. Now entering another offseason without a firm landing spot, Vaughn will likely need to compete for a depth role elsewhere to continue his NFL career.

2. Broncos Backfield Still Searching For Clear Hierarchy

While Vaughn exits the picture, Denver’s running back competition remains open and closely evaluated. The coaching staff has yet to settle on a definitive long-term structure for the position heading into 2026. J.K. Dobbins is expected to play a significant role when healthy, though availability has been a recurring factor throughout his career. Injuries limited him to 10 games in his first season with the Broncos, but his production when on the field has reinforced his value. Alongside him, RJ Harvey is viewed as a rising option within the offense. A former second-round pick, Harvey is projected to take on a larger workload as Denver looks to build a more balanced and sustainable rushing attack. The combination of Dobbins’ experience and Harvey’s upside gives Denver multiple directions to explore, but also leaves room for continued evaluation during the offseason and training camp.

3. Bigger Expectations Surround A Team On The Rise

The Broncos enter the 2026 season with heightened expectations on both sides of the ball. A strong defensive unit has positioned the team as a legitimate contender, while the offense continues to develop around quarterback Bo Nix. Much of Denver’s success will depend on establishing consistency in the run game, which remains a priority under Payton’s system. The team has emphasized balance as a key factor in sustaining offensive production over a full season. Vaughn’s departure, while relatively minor in the broader roster picture, highlights the level of competition within the organization. Even depth roles are being scrutinized as the Broncos aim to refine their roster for a potential playoff push. As Denver moves forward, the focus will remain on identifying reliable contributors who can support a quarterback-led offense and complement an already strong defensive foundation.