Who Should I Start? Ashton Jeanty or RJ Harvey

Wednesday, June 25, 6:15 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie first-round running back Ashton Jeanty has made a strong impression within the organization, according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden. Head coach Pete Carroll said Jeanty was "every bit" of what the team hoped for during offseason workouts as he showcased his pass-catching abilities and understanding of the offense. The Boise State product received most of the first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp, an indication that he's already established himself as the team's RB1. "He's such a strong and dynamic back," left tackle Kolton Miller said. "Even if he gets hit, he's still balanced, and that's super unique." There's been talk that the Raiders could use a committee backfield in 2025, but they didn't draft Jeanty sixth overall for that. He's going to cost a pretty penny in fantasy drafts and is already considered a top-five fantasy back going into his rookie campaign.

Thursday, July 17, 3:01 PM

Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey has agreed to his four-year rookie deal, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The rookie out of UCF is expected to have a meaningful role right away in Sean Payton's offense, which has been friendly for running back production in the past. The team used a second-round pick on the do-it-all weapon after many believed he was a potential Day-3 prospect, so that should give fantasy managers confidence in him despite the addition of veteran J.K. Dobbins. While Dobbins is likely to take some early-down work, he has a lengthy injury history and averaged just 3.8 yards per carry with the Los Angeles Chargers last year after Week 2. Meanwhile, Harvey is a high-level pass-catcher and should be viewed as the primary receiving back right away. Quarterback Bo Nix heavily targeted running backs in the passing game during his time at Oregon, and Payton has been known for involving his RBs in that aspect of the offense. Harvey is being drafted in the high-end RB3 range, but he has legitimate RB1 upside in PPR leagues if things break right.