The Denver Broncos will be without rookie running back Audric Estime for the next four weeks, following his placement on Injured Reserve due to an ankle injury.
The team announced this decision on Wednesday, following his debut in the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. Estime had a brief appearance in that game, rushing twice for a total of 14 yards during the Broncos’ loss.
Drafted in the fifth round from Notre Dame, Estime was expected to bring a strong physical presence to Denver’s backfield. In his final college season, he accumulated 1,321 rushing yards and scored 18 touchdowns, helping Notre Dame achieve a 10-3 record. His early departure from college was driven by his standout performance and potential in the NFL.
With Estime sidelined, Denver’s backfield remains competitive, as Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin are likely to continue taking the bulk of the carries. In response to Estime’s absence, the Broncos elevated fullback Michael Burton from the practice squad, a player who was already active in Week 1 and appeared in all 17 games for the team last season.
