Initial Usage for RJ Harvey Would Be Nice if it Sticks

What They're Saying

HC Sean Payton: "He'll continue to get work with the No. 1s, just like Dobbins. And then next week we'll flip it up, too, relative to seeing some of the other backs earlier."

2025 Fantasy Football Impact

There are a few different things to consider here ...

First, I don't think anyone believed Harvey's laughably low placement on Denver's first "unofficial" depth chart. (The Broncos might as well have just posted a picture of a middle finger.) This preseason opener confirmed everyone's doubts.

Second, this was just one game. We'll have to see what Payton means exactly by "flip it up" next time out. It's possible he leaned more toward Harvey simply to start breaking the rookie in. Dobbins has been in the league since 2020.

Third, it's an undeniably positive start for Harvey. There's plenty to break down with his actual performance. He showed some of the explosiveness, but plenty of observers also pointed out that the rookie showed too much propensity to look outside with his runs rather than pursuing the planned interior path. That aspect could factor into the size of Harvey's regular-season role, especially early.

As for Dobbins, the third-down role likely comes primarily for his reliability in protection. The veteran hasn't showed much as a receiver across his NFL career, averaging just 1.6 receptions per game and 5.6 yards per catch.

Dobbins caught a career-high 32 passes for last year's Chargers, while averaging a career-worst 4.8 yards per reception.

Ultimately, we'll see exactly how this backfield plays out. But initial usage keeps Harvey and Dobbins as decent -- not exciting -- values at current ADP.