Denver's backfield remains a fluid puzzle after Week 2 of the preseason. Audric Estime showed limited early-season traction, slipping from a Week 1 depth role to a late-game appearance in Week 2. The coaching staff laid out a clear two-thirds plan for Blake Watson and Estime, with RJ Harvey drawing a start and Tyler Badie, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Blake Watson mixing in. The path for Estime to the 53-man roster appears precarious, potentially pivoting to a practice-squad spot if the current pecking order holds. For fantasy players, this is a situation to monitor closely as roster decisions loom and Watson’s workload could become the most reliable clue to Denver’s usage in the opener.
J.K. Dobbins rested for the Cardinals game, providing context on how teams guard their top backs in August. Denver’s plan suggests a committee dynamic that could favor two or three players who can contribute both on the ground and in the pass game. Audric Estime’s Week 2 performance (9 carries for 20 yards, no targets) reinforces the uncertainty surrounding his roster security, while Blake Watson’s two-thirds allotment hints at a potential breakout opportunity if Estime slips. Fantasy managers should watch for any late-summer roster moves that could tilt the backfield toward a clearer lead option in Week 1 of the regular season.