J.K. Dobbins signs with Denver in 2025, a move that instantly puts him in the crosshairs of a backfield that could lean on him if the team isn’t ready to trust second-round rookie R.J. Harvey on money downs. Dobbins flashed a ceiling in Baltimore and had a brief 100-yard surge with the Chargers in 2024, but injuries and inefficiency tempered his production. In Denver, his fantasy value hinges on Harvey’s readiness and how much Denver wants to rely on a run-heavy attack. If Harvey growls early on third-downs, Dobbins could be a late-round flyer whose real value comes from goal-line touches and a safer floor than many other sleepers.

Harvey’s arrival clouds the projection: the rookie’s ability in pass protection and as a receiver will determine how many money-down reps Dobbins truly earns. If Harvey struggles, Dobbins could steal a larger share of carries; if not, expect a committee with modest combined upside. Managers drafting in redraft or dynasty leagues should weigh Denver’s line stability, the offense’s overall pace, and Dobbins’ injury history when mapping rosters and risk.

Overall, Dobbins’ 2025 fantasy outlook sits as a cautious, low-ceiling bet in the later rounds. The path to mid-season work is there, but the backfield in Denver is tethered to Harvey’s development and health. In standard leagues, he’s more of a depth piece with upside if Harvey falters; in PPR formats, Harvey's role could cap Dobbins’ receiving upside while preserving a floor through consistent early-down touches and red-zone opportunities.