Report: Broncos will place rookie RB Audric Estime on the short-term IR

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Denver Broncos are placing rookie running back Audric Estime on the short-term injured reserve due to an ankle injury. Estime will be out for at least four weeks due to this designation.

The team reportedly signed fullback Michael Burton back to the active roster and signed wide receiver Kaden Davis to the practice squad in corresponding moves.

Estime, a fifth-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft had two carries for 14 yards in the season opener vs. the Seahawks, but apparently suffered an ankle injury at some point during the game. Now, he’ll be out at least four weeks of the season.

With Estime down, undrafted rookie Blake Watson moves up the depth chart as the third running back on the Broncos roster. We could also see Tyler Badie off the practice squad get some looks as well.

Javonte Williams and second-year running back Jaleel McLaughlin are your starters so Estime’s loss will be a depth concern right now. Both will need to stay healthy moving forward, but for now, Watson will slide in as the depth option on the roster.

Veteran Michael Burton who signed to the Broncos practice squad was elevated last week to the active roster but now will be on the active roster officially and be your starting fullback moving forward. Kaden Davis spent time with the team back in 2022 and was on the Lions roster this offseason but now signs to the Broncos practice squad and adds some more depth to that receiving room.