Week 2 RBs sit on the cusp of bigger roles. Warren could seize control in Pittsburgh if Gainwell fumbles, while Dobbins remains the Broncos’ clear lead back with primary red-zone duties. Mason projects as the Vikings’ early-down and goal-line option, and Henderson’s role in New England is tempered by Stevenson’s volume. Montgomery faces a potential drop in workload, and Henderson’s PPR upsides are subtle at best.

Volume and consistency drive the bets here. Expect Warren and Mason to push for more responsibility if efficiency improves; Dobbins’ job appears secure for now; Henderson remains a high-risk, high-reward bench option. Monitoring Week 2 game scripts will be key to capitalizing on these backfields.

Week 1 exposed a shifting NFL RB landscape. Chase Brown and Tony Pollard led their teams with workhorse workloads, logging over 80% of rushing attempts and the vast majority of scrimmage touches, signaling sustained high-volume roles to come.

Travis Etienne asserted himself as Jacksonville’s true bell cow after Tank Bigsby shipped out, while Kenneth Walker III ceded prominent work to Zach Charbonnet in Seattle. Jordan Mason surfaced for Minnesota, and Week 2 matchups loom as fantasy managers chase these trendlines.

Brian Flores flipped the Bears game plan in Chicago, dialing up pressure that helped Minnesota rally from a 17-6 hole. Caleb Williams started hot, but the Vikings’ defense and late-run game adjustments turned the tide for a 27-24 win. J.J. McCarthy avoided mistakes late, while Jordan Mason’s second-half bursts and Aaron Jones’ TD connection with McCarthy supplied the offense Minnesota needed. Myles Price sparked special-teams relevance, and Nailor’s DPI moment gave Minnesota the short-field edge down the stretch.

The win showcased Flores’ blitz-heavy second-half blueprint, Mason’s improved off-tackle rhythm, and Price’s punt-return spark, all while Wright’s punting remained a concern with field-position swings. Vikings bettors and fantasy managers will watch how this balance translates into Week 2 with Mason and Jefferson driving the aerial and ground facets.

McCarthy's NFL debut sparked Minnesota's dramatic 27-24 comeback win in Chicago. After a slow start, the 22-year-old rookie rewired the offense in the second half, finishing 13 of 20 for 143 yards and accounting for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter—an unprecedented feat for a debuting QB. His leadership on the sideline and conviction during the rally energized the Vikings, who leaned on a stout defense and Jordan Mason’s late push on the ground.

Javon Hargrave recalled McCarthy telling the team, “he's got us,” at halftime, a moment echoed by Kevin O’Connell’s praise of the “unbelievable look” in his eyes. Jefferson connected on a late TD pass, and McCarthy capped the night with a 14-yard scoring run, proving Minnesota’s faith in him may be justified moving forward.