The Lead
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — The Broncos have been looking for a spark when it comes to the run game. And in the fourth quarter of Sunday's win over the Buccaneers, it looked like they may have found it.
Running back Tyler Badie, who was elevated from Denver's practice squad for the second time this season, took off for a 43-yard gain in what was the Broncos' longest rush of the season. The play was just one of many highlights in an impressive performance for the third-year player, who led the team with nine carries for 70 yards in the 26-7 victory.
And while Badie may not have been named to the Broncos' initial 53-man roster this season, he said he has always been prepared for whenever his opportunity might come.
"My process has always been the same," Badie said Wednesday. "I always felt like I could play. Any opportunity I got, I was ready to show that. And that's what I did."
Now, Badie could have plenty more opportunities to do the same. On Wednesday, Head Coach Sean Payton announced that the Broncos were promoting him to the 53-man roster after inside linebacker Alex Singleton was placed on injured reserve.
"He's been really decisive," Payton said. "He's had some big runs for us. He's smart. He knows the system. He's good in the passing game. He brings a lot."
Badie, who said he has focused on "making the most" of his opportunities during Denver's last two games, has also impressed rookie quarterback Bo Nix with his production.
"He played great Sunday," Nix said. "He provides extra depth for us at back. He's just another one of those guys in the backfield that can provide explosive plays. We're happy to get him and continue his production."
A 2022 sixth-round pick by the Ravens, Badie said he has been working hard in anticipation of this moment. And as he now looks forward to more on-field opportunities, he is confident he can continue to be that spark for Denver throughout the season.
"I was just grateful," he said. "All the work I put in, I was just grateful for the opportunity. The biggest thing is I just want to win games and just help the team win. That's what I'm here to do."
