In Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season, the Broncos were able to squeak by the Titans with a score of 20-12. Denver got bailed out by their defense all game long as their offense faltered. Bo Nix struggled throughout, but the real point of discussion regarding the Broncos’ offense was the running game.
Initially, the Broncos’ plan of attack with their backs was very confusing. J.K. Dobbins struggled to get anything going, Tyler Badie kept stealing snaps, and RJ Harvey was nowhere to be found. However, after a powerful touchdown run from Dobbins, set up by a 50-yard explosion from Harvey, fans believed that the running game was going to be just fine.
The one question that lingered was whether Harvey or Dobbins would be the No. 1 guy.
Is J.K. Just Okay?
J.K. Dobbins seems to be an excellent fit in a Sean Payton offense. Not a very flashy player these days, but a solid rusher capable of fighting for the hard-to-get yards and breaking off a long run now and then. Given his size, experience, and rushing style, it seems likely that he will be the steady first and second down back.
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However, with Dobbins’ steadiness also comes concerns. His career has been plagued by injuries, and it may not be long before another one arises. Additionally, even if he does avoid injury, Sean Payton may limit his touches a bit to make sure he stays that way.
Dobbins’ injuries and lack of explosiveness may keep him from being a true bell cow back. However, as long as he stays healthy, look for Dobbins to continually get a sizeable workload. Unless, of course, RJ Harvey takes over.
A Good Day for RJ
Denver fans were beside themselves at the start of the game, as Tyler Badie kept taking RJ Harvey’s place in passing situations. The second-rounder out of UCF had been receiving a tremendous amount of hype throughout the offseason. Naturally, Broncos fans could not wait to see what he could do on the field.
However, about halfway through the second half, Payton decided to give Harvey a try, which was a decision he did not regret. Despite only getting six carries and one reception, Harvey made his mark with his 50-yard run to set up the Broncos’ game-securing touchdown.
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In doing so, Harvey essentially guaranteed his RB2 spot over Badie, but it also has fans wondering what will happen when Harvey inevitably starts getting more carries.
RJ versus J.K.
In the battle of J.K. Dobbins vs. RJ Harvey, they’re both winners. At least they should be.
As boring an outcome as that may be, it’s the truth.
Dobbins and Harvey are very different backs. Dobbins is a larger, more powerful back specializing in inside runs and around the goal line — great at getting the yards that are tough to pick up.
Meanwhile, Harvey is a much smaller back who thrives in passing situations and outside plays where he can show off his speed and agility in the open field.
Realistically, Payton, Lombardi, and the rest of the Broncos’ offensive coaching staff should employ a strict two-back system (no more Tyler Badie) with just Dobbins and Harvey. Let Dobbins get the ball on first down to assuredly pick up a few; have Harvey get in the game on third down as a passing option. Base the second down touches on who’s been the hot hand.
Some fans believe Harvey will eclipse Dobbins as the sole back. Others believe Harvey will not live up to the hype and that it will be all Dobbins. However, if the Broncos are truly going to make a playoff push, they need both backs working together to make it happen.
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