Jonah Coleman isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. The Denver Broncos' fourth-round rookie running back knows exactly what it takes to earn his stripes in the NFL, and he's ready to embrace the grind.
Coleman steps into a competitive backfield alongside J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey, forming what could be a formidable three-headed monster in Denver's run game. While he's currently projected as the RB3, the 22-year-old is laser-focused on carving out his role—and he's not looking for the spotlight.
"Obviously, just playing my role and doing what I do," Coleman said when asked about his potential contributions. "The leadership that I bring to the locker room, the culture, how I can ultimately add to that culture they have… Being able to come in and be with guys like RJ Harvey, J.K. Dobbins—you ultimately have a three-headed monster in the run game. I believe that's where it starts, in the trenches."
What sets Coleman apart? His pass-blocking. The former college standout was one of the nation's top blocking backs, a skill that often goes unnoticed but is invaluable at the next level. Protecting quarterback Bo Nix is a mission Coleman takes personally.
"It's really important," he said. "Now I get to go protect Bo Nix, and I take pride in that. I may not have all the exciting plays, but I do the dirty work. I do those things that not a lot of people pay attention to. Just being able to be well-rounded."
That blue-collar mentality could be Coleman's ticket to early playing time. While he may start as the third option, his willingness to do the unglamorous work—combined with his long-term potential—makes him a player to watch in Denver's backfield rotation. For a rookie, that kind of attitude is a game-changer.
