Home / Sports / Broncos Fullback Battle Heats Up as Preseason Approaches
Broncos Fullback Battle Heats Up as Preseason Approaches
22 Jul
Summary
- Broncos to open training camp this Friday
- Team may keep 4 running backs, requiring roster cuts elsewhere
- Veteran fullback Michael Burton vs. rising talent Nate Adkins
- Adkins offers versatility as a receiver and blocker

As the Denver Broncos prepare to open training camp this Friday, the team faces some difficult roster decisions. Last season, the Broncos kept three quarterbacks on their final 53-man roster, but this year, they may opt to carry four running backs.
This could require the team to make cuts at other positions, and one area they may look to trim is the fullback spot. Last year, the Broncos cut veteran fullback Michael Burton but later re-signed him to the practice squad and then the active roster, where he played in all 17 regular-season games.
This year, the Broncos may choose to move on from Burton in favor of Nate Adkins, a tight end-fullback hybrid who is entering his third NFL season. Adkins, an undrafted free agent in 2023, showed promise as a receiver and blocker last year, catching 14 passes with three touchdowns.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Head coach Sean Payton is looking to build a rugged, run-first offense, and Adkins' versatility could make him the better fit over the more traditional Burton. With limited roster spots available, the Broncos will have to weigh the pros and cons of each player as they finalize their 53-man roster ahead of the preseason.