Audric Estime has emerged as a name to watch in the NFL, particularly among Denver Broncos fans. As a rookie running back in the 2024 season, Estime showcased glimpses of his potential despite facing challenges like injuries and limited opportunities. Drafted in the fifth round out of Notre Dame, his powerful running style and physicality have drawn attention, with many wondering how his role will evolve in his second year.
This article dives into Estime’s journey, from his college days to his NFL debut, his performance stats, injury setbacks, and what fans can expect moving forward. We’ll also address common questions about Estime circulating online, ensuring a comprehensive look at this promising talent.
Early Life and College Career
Audric Estime was born on September 6, 2003, in Nyack, New York, and raised in New Jersey. His athletic prowess was evident early on at St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, New Jersey, where he became a standout running back. Estime’s high school career was marked by impressive stats, earning him recognition as a four-star recruit by major scouting services like 247Sports and ESPN. His combination of size, speed, and vision made him a coveted prospect, setting the stage for his collegiate journey.
Notre Dame Dominance
Estime committed to the University of Notre Dame, where he played for the Fighting Irish from 2021 to 2023. His college career was a testament to his work ethic and talent. In his freshman year, he saw limited action, appearing in 12 games with 7 carries for 26 yards. However, his sophomore year marked a breakout, as he rushed for 920 yards and 11 touchdowns on 156 carries, establishing himself as a key part of Notre Dame’s offense.
His 2023 season was nothing short of spectacular. Estime set a Notre Dame single-season record with 18 rushing touchdowns and amassed 1,341 rushing yards, the fifth-most in program history. A highlight was his performance against Stanford on November 25, 2023, where he ran for 238 yards and 4 touchdowns on 25 carries, cementing his reputation as a workhorse back.
His efforts earned him Second Team Sporting News All-American honors, though he was surprisingly overlooked as a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award due to relatively low carry volume compared to other top running backs. Estime’s physical running style, often described as punishing, drew comparisons to NFL backs like Marshawn Lynch. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact made him a fan favorite and a prime candidate for the NFL Draft.
NFL Draft and Entry into the Pros
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Audric Estime was selected by the Denver Broncos with the 147th overall pick in the fifth round. This selection was seen as a steal by some analysts, given his college production, though his 4.71-second 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Combine raised questions about his speed. Despite this, the Broncos, led by head coach Sean Payton, saw Estime as a perfect fit for their run-heavy offensive scheme, valuing his physicality and ability to wear down defenses.
Rookie Season Challenges
Estime’s rookie season with the Broncos in 2024 was a mix of promise and frustration. An ankle injury early in the season landed him on injured reserve, causing him to miss the first four games. This setback limited his opportunities to establish himself in a crowded running back room that included Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin.
Over the course of the 2024 regular season, Estime appeared in 14 games, recording 76 carries for 310 yards (4.1 yards per carry) and two touchdowns. He also caught all five of his targets for 27 receiving yards. While these numbers were modest, they reflected his limited role as a rookie behind established backs. Notably, Estime was inactive for the Broncos’ first playoff appearance in nearly a decade in January 2025, a decision that sparked discussion among fans and analysts.
Estime’s rookie season was also marred by ball security issues, as he committed fumbles that raised concerns about his reliability. However, his physical running style and ability to gain tough yards hinted at his potential to become a significant contributor with more opportunities.
Strengths and Playing Style
Estime’s greatest asset is his physicality. At 5’11” and 215 pounds, he combines size with agility, making him a difficult runner to bring down. His college tape showcased his ability to break tackles, with 1,341 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2023 highlighting his effectiveness as a power back. In the NFL, his 4.1 yards per carry average as a rookie suggests he can be productive with consistent touches, though his role was limited by the Broncos’ depth at running back.
Estime’s vision and patience allow him to find holes in the defense, while his low center of gravity helps him maintain balance through contact. Broncos head coach Sean Payton has praised these traits, noting that Estime’s running style and physicality were key reasons for drafting him. His ability to bring energy to the offense was also highlighted by Estime himself, who believes his aggressive style can set the tone for the team.
Areas for Improvement
While Estime’s physical attributes are undeniable, his rookie season exposed areas for growth. His 4.71-second 40-yard dash raised concerns about his top-end speed, which may limit his ability to break away for long runs in the NFL. Additionally, his ball security issues need addressing, as fumbles can erode trust from coaches in high-stakes situations.
Estime’s pass-catching ability, while not a weakness, remains underdeveloped. His five receptions for 27 yards in 2024 indicate he was rarely targeted, which could be a function of the Broncos’ offensive scheme or a need for further refinement in his route-running and hands. Expanding his role as a receiving back could make him a more versatile weapon in Sean Payton’s offense.
Injury History and Impact
Ankle Injury Setback: One of the defining moments of Estime’s rookie season was his ankle injury, which sidelined him for the first four weeks of the 2024 season. This injury, sustained early in training camp or the preseason, placed him on injured reserve, delaying his integration into the Broncos’ game plan. The absence of those early games likely contributed to his limited role, as he struggled to climb the depth chart upon his return.
Recovery and Resilience: Despite the setback, Estime showed resilience by returning to play in 14 games. His ability to log 76 carries in a limited role suggests he was physically capable of handling the NFL’s demands post-injury. However, the injury may have impacted his confidence and rhythm early on, as he was not given the volume of carries needed to fully showcase his abilities.
Sean Payton’s Vision for Estime
Recent comments from Broncos head coach Sean Payton indicate a bright future for Estime. In late May 2025, Payton expressed a desire to increase Estime’s touches in his second season, emphasizing that Estime “requires enough touches” to maximize his impact. Payton highlighted Estime’s physicality and running style as traits that align with the team’s offensive identity, suggesting that the coaching staff views him as a key piece of the backfield moving forward.
Payton’s comments also addressed the challenges of Estime’s rookie year, noting that his limited touches left his “grade incomplete.” This acknowledgment suggests the Broncos are committed to giving Estime a larger role in 2025, potentially as a complement to or replacement for Javonte Williams, whose contract situation remains uncertain.
Fit in the Broncos’ Offense
The Broncos’ offensive scheme under Payton relies heavily on a strong running game to set up play-action passes. Estime’s bruising style makes him an ideal fit for this approach, as he can wear down defenses and create opportunities for big plays. His ability to bring energy and attitude, as he noted in a December 2024 interview, aligns with Payton’s vision for an aggressive, physical offense.
Fan and Analyst Perspectives
Posts on X reflect growing excitement about Estime’s potential. Fans and analysts alike have noted his physical running style and the need for more touches. For example, posts from @MaseDenver and @CoachspeakIndex in May 2025 highlighted Payton’s comments about increasing Estime’s role, generating optimism among Broncos fans. Earlier posts from Notre Dame’s official account (@NDFootball) and reporters like @tbhorka underscored Estime’s college dominance, which continues to fuel expectations for his NFL career.
However, some fans have expressed frustration over Estime’s limited usage in 2024, particularly his inactivity during the playoffs. This sentiment is tempered by optimism about his future, with many believing that a healthy offseason and increased trust from the coaching staff will lead to a breakout 2025 season.
Future Outlook
Potential Role in 2025: With Sean Payton’s commitment to increasing Estime’s touches, 2025 could be a breakout year. The departure or reduced role of other running backs, such as Javonte Williams, could open the door for Estime to become a primary or co-lead back. His physicality makes him a candidate for short-yardage and goal-line situations, while improved pass-catching skills could elevate him to a three-down role.
Long-Term Potential: At just 22 years old as of June 2025, Estime has significant room for growth. His college production suggests he can handle a heavy workload, and his rookie season, while limited, showed he can translate his skills to the NFL. If he addresses his ball security issues and improves his speed and receiving, Estime could become a cornerstone of the Broncos’ backfield for years to come.
Challenges Ahead: The biggest challenges for Estime in 2025 will be staying healthy, securing a larger role in a competitive backfield, and proving he can be a reliable every-down back. The NFL’s physical demands will test his durability, especially given his injury history. Additionally, he’ll need to earn Payton’s trust to avoid being relegated to a situational role.
FAQs
What is Audric Estimé’s background and personal story?
Estimé’s journey to the NFL is marked by resilience and determination. After his mother’s passing due to sickle cell disease when he was ten, Estimé and his brother were raised by their aunt and uncle. His cousin, Terrence Fede, a former NFL player, served as a mentor, guiding Estimé throughout his football career.
What are Audric Estimé’s prospects in fantasy football?
Estimé is considered a potential sleeper pick in dynasty and redraft fantasy leagues. His role as a power back in the Broncos’ offense could lead to valuable goal-line touches and scoring opportunities. However, his fantasy value may be limited by the presence of other running backs on the roster.
Did the Broncos draft another running back in 2025?
Yes, the Broncos selected RJ Harvey from UCF in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Harvey is known for his explosive playmaking ability, which complements Estimé’s power-running style. However, Estimé remains the team’s primary short-yardage back.
What is expected of Audric Estimé in the 2025 NFL season?
Head coach Sean Payton has indicated that Estimé is deserving of more opportunities in 2025. While RJ Harvey is expected to be the lead back, Estimé is anticipated to play a significant role, particularly in power-running situations.
What is Audric Estimé’s playing style?
Estimé is known for his physical, downhill running style. At 5’11” and 227 pounds, he excels in short-yardage situations and between-the-tackles running. His ability to break tackles and gain tough yards makes him a valuable asset in power-running schemes.
In Summary
Audric Estime’s journey from a high school standout in New Jersey to a record-setting running back at Notre Dame and now a promising NFL rookie with the Denver Broncos is a story of perseverance and potential. Despite a challenging 2024 season marked by an early injury and limited touches, Estime’s physicality and work ethic have earned him praise from coaches and fans alike.
With Sean Payton’s commitment to giving him more opportunities in 2025, Estime is poised for a breakout year that could solidify his place in the Broncos’ future. As fans continue to search for highlights, stats, and updates on platforms like YouTube and Google, Estime’s name is one to watch in the NFL landscape.
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