UC Davis RB Lan Larison has been generating buzz as of late as a potential late round or undrafted gem in the 2025 NFL Draft. Today we get to know his skill set and project his potential fit on the Denver Broncos
Lan Larison rushed for 1,465 yards and 17 touchdowns off of 284 carries in 2024, but what makes him even more intriguing is the 847 yards and 6 touchdowns on 62 receptions, making him a dynamic threat out of the backfield. These numbers brought him recognition in the form of First Team Big Sky All-Conference and AP FCS All-American honors.
Larison has more burst and athleticism than you usually expect from an FCS prospect, his excellent vision and patience allowed him plenty of opportunities to showcase his explosive potential. Many of his best runs were one cut, hit the hole and go plays, however he should look to improve his effectiveness on outside zone and stretch runs at the next level. It’s unlikely he finds success in a heavy outside zone scheme in the NFL.
Other things that may limit Larison at the pro level are his size and play strength at just 5’11 215 lbs, his struggles in pass protection, and his lacking ball security with 4 fumbles in 2024. His competition level at UC Davis is also naturally a question.
Why Lan Larison should be on the Denver Broncos radar
Not only do the Broncos have a glaring need at RB, but Larison particularly excites me in a Sean Payton offense, because he was one of the most versatile and dynamic backs in the country last season, taking snaps at halfback, wideout, slot, and wildcat quarterback. Since the day Payton arrived in Denver there’s been talks of him finding his “Joker” in the offense. Some may point to the Evan Engram signing and claim he already fills that role but I think Larison can win in ways that Engram just can’t given their difference in archetypes.
Despite the snaps at receiver and in the slot, Lan definitely does his best receiving work out of the backfield, and to be a true joker, I want to see him step it up at those other positions. As for his work at wildcat quarterback, he attempted 21 passes, completing nine for 97 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Although he’s shown improvement and looks comfortable throwing the football, his best results came when he leveraged the passing threat and kept the ball on the ground, ripping off some electric gains.
One final point in Larison’s favor is his experience on special teams — both as an All-Conference kick returner and starting gunner. These assets could be crucial for keeping himself worthy of a roster spot early on as he still develops as an offensive threat.
In conclusion, I see Lan Larison as a player worth a flyer in the 5th round or later, however due to the small school and undersized stature I expect him to be available as an undrafted free agent following the draft.
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