Denver Broncos Rookie Running Back Jonah Coleman Steps Into Expanded Role
As the Denver Broncos prepare for a Week 9 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, rookie running back Jonah Coleman is emerging as a focal point of the team's offense.
Denver Broncos rookie running back Jonah Coleman is drawing significant attention as the team navigates the mid-season stretch of the 2026 NFL campaign. Following an injury to teammate RJ Harvey, who has been placed on injured reserve, Coleman has seen a notable increase in his workload and overall offensive involvement.
Coleman's breakout performance came in Week 8 against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he turned 15 touches into 104 total scrimmage yards. He recorded 11 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown, alongside four receptions for 63 yards. This milestone marked the first time a Broncos running back eclipsed 100 scrimmage yards in a single game this season.
Across his first four appearances of the 2026 season, Coleman has accumulated 30 carries for 134 yards and two touchdowns, complemented by nine receptions for 97 yards. His recent usage trends indicate a rising snap rate, jumping from 58% overall in his return to 66% during the contest against Kansas City.
Football analysts and fantasy experts highlight Coleman's efficiency as a pass-catching weapon and his yards-after-contact profile as key assets for the Denver offense. With quarterback Bo Nix looking to find consistent rhythm through the air, analysts suggest the Broncos will likely lean heavily on their running game.
The upcoming matchup against the Carolina Panthers presents a favorable opportunity for Coleman to continue his momentum. Carolina's defense has struggled significantly against opposing ground attacks, ranking 30th in rushing yards allowed per game with 140.7, seventh-worst in expected points added per rush allowed, and dead last in rushing touchdowns allowed per game at 1.7.
While fellow running back J.K. Dobbins provides depth behind Coleman in a similar stylistic mold, analysts expect Coleman to maintain control of the backfield duties. His expanded role and favorable upcoming schedule elevate his status significantly within the Denver offense as they look to secure a vital victory on the road.
Sources
- Self-learning AI releases NFL picks, score predictions for every Week 9 game cbssports.com
- Week 9 Fantasy Football Running Back Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Jonah Coleman vs. Jonathan Taylor sports.yahoo.com
- Fantasy Football Week 9 Start 'Em Sit 'Em: Chase Brown or Jonah Coleman? si.com
- Jets | Breece Hall 7 snaps, Braelon Allen 6 early at Chiefs fantasyguru.com
- Broncos vs. Panthers pick, best bets: Bryce Young’s struggles continue in Week 9 nypost.com