Denver's offensive-line depth is tested after Nick Gargiulo left Saturday's preseason game with a knee injury against Arizona. Gargiulo, a seventh-round pick from South Carolina (and Yale prior), could miss time, opening questions about the Broncos' interior rotation. The injury adds urgency to how Denver prioritizes its swing-guard/center option and how quickly the team evaluates its 53-man roster plans.

If Gargiulo is out, Luke Wattenberg remains the starter at center, backed by Alex Forsyth and undrafted rookie Joe Michalski. Guards Calvin Throckmorton, Will Sherman, and Clay Webb will compete for snaps. The update underscores how quickly interior-line depth can shift in the preseason and what that means for Week 1 protection schemes and fantasy considerations of Broncos blockers.

RJ Harvey flashed top-speed burst and elusive agility in Denver’s first preseason clash, finishing six carries for 24 yards and posting 4.5 yards after contact on a key run. He showed the kind of game-changing ability that could lift the Denver offense if he wins the early-down lead, though several carries were bounced outside due to line traffic rather than pure misreads by the back. The take: this is not a bad night; it’s a showcase that the offense, blocking schemes, and Harvey can improve together. The film paints clear, fixable issues rather than fatal flaws, and Denver’s backfield competition will hinge on line cohesion and Harvey’s decision-making in real NFL speed. Expect a hotly watched follow-up in Week 2 as the line and Harvey mesh more as a unit.

Preseason Blame Game observations focus on a developing run plan—inside zone and gap schemes—with Harvey often bouncing to the outside. Some reps were blocked cleanly; others suffered from interior congestion, particularly where the RT’s technique and DE slants clogged seams. The takeaway: Harvey’s physical gifts are undeniable; with improved recognition and more consistent O-line chemistry, his upside is substantial. This isn’t about one game; it’s about a process where coaching and blocking will determine Harvey’s Week 1 role and fantasy upside.

Bottom line for fantasy managers: Harvey can be a high-ceiling threat if he locks down the lead role, but keep expectations tempered until the line gels. Denver’s scheme mix and the health/accuracy of blockers will shape his carry volume, especially early in the season. In the meantime, monitor roster moves and the next preseason test—the path to a breakout remains very much in play as the offense seeks cohesion for a more explosive ground game.

Luke Wattenberg, the Denver Broncos' fourth-year center, is poised to retain his starting position heading into the 2025 season. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Wattenberg showcased exceptional versatility during his college career at the University of Washington, where he played both center and left guard. Despite a challenging start in the NFL, he began to find his footing in 2024, starting 13 games after taking over for Lloyd Cushenberry.

Wattenberg's success has coincided with the evolution of the Broncos' offensive line and the transition to second-year quarterback Bo Nix. With Wattenberg's rookie contract nearing its end, he is in a pivotal position to negotiate a new deal with the Broncos while solidifying his role as a key player in Denver's lineup.