Denver Broncos RB Battle: Will J.K. Dobbins or RJ Harvey Start Week 1 and How Will Marvin Mims Jr. Impact the Passing Game?

The Denver Broncos enter the 2025 season with a fierce competition at running back, as J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey battle for the RB1 role. While Dobbins opened camp as the starter, Harvey’s explosive potential keeps him firmly in the mix, setting the stage for a compelling preseason duel.

Meanwhile, Marvin Mims Jr. has emerged as the starting receiver opposite Courtland Sutton, adding a dynamic element to the passing game. How Mims performs could influence the offense’s balance, potentially shaping the workload distribution between Denver’s running backs.

With training camp underway, the Broncos’ backfield remains one of the most intriguing storylines to watch.

Denver Broncos RB Battle: Will J.K. Dobbins or RJ Harvey Start Week 1?

The Denver Broncos’ running back competition is one of the most intriguing storylines of training camp. Veteran J.K. Dobbins, signed to a one-year deal this offseason, opened camp as RB1, per reports from [si.com]. However, rookie RJ Harvey, drafted in the second round, is viewed by many as the future of the position. Dobbins brings experience and proven production when healthy, while Harvey offers explosive playmaking ability.

The Broncos’ running game was lackluster last season, which explains why they invested heavily in revamping the position. Both backs are expected to see significant carries this season, regardless of who officially starts Week 1. The coaching staff will likely ride the hot hand, making this a true 1A and 1B situation.

I think Dobbins starts Week 1, but Harvey will take over by midseason. The Broncos didn’t draft Harvey in Round 2 to sit him.

Really? I feel like Dobbins’ injury history makes him too risky to rely on. Why not let the rookie take the reins from Day 1?

Key Factors in the RB Competition

• Health: Dobbins’ ability to stay healthy
• Pass protection: Which back handles blitzes better
• Playmaking: Harvey’s big-play potential vs Dobbins’ consistency

How Marvin Mims Jr. Could Change the Broncos’ Passing Game

Second-year receiver Marvin Mims Jr. has been listed as a starter opposite veteran Courtland Sutton on early depth charts, per [9news.com]. This represents a significant opportunity for the 2023 draft pick who showed flashes as a rookie. Mims’ speed and route-running could provide quarterback Bo Nix with a reliable downfield target.

Mims’ emergence would help balance an offense that risks being too run-heavy. Defenses will likely stack the box against the Broncos’ strong running game, creating opportunities for play-action passes. If Mims can capitalize, it would transform Denver’s offensive ceiling.

Broncos Depth Chart Surprises: Who Else Might Emerge in Camp?

Beyond the running back battle and Mims’ potential breakout, several other position battles warrant attention:

Broncos 2025 Season Outlook: Playoff Contender or Rebuilding Year?

The Broncos improved their roster across several positions this offseason, particularly at running back and offensive line. However, much depends on Nix’s development at quarterback. Their schedule presents challenges, including matchups against multiple projected playoff teams.

The defense, led by star cornerback Patrick Surtain II, should keep the team competitive even if the offense struggles. If everything breaks right – Dobbins/Harvey produce big numbers, Nix makes sophomore strides, Mims breaks out – Denver could push for a wild card spot.

Fantasy Football Impact: Which Broncos to Target in Drafts?

For fantasy managers evaluating Broncos players:

• Harvey has higher upside, but Dobbins is safer initially
• Mims is a sleeper WR3/4 with WR2 upside
• Sutton remains the most reliable receiver
• Broncos D/ST worth late-round flier

I’m staying away from Broncos RBs in early rounds. Too much uncertainty with how the carries will be divided.

But Harvey could be this year’s Puka Nacua – the late-round pick that wins leagues! I’m grabbing him everywhere.