Who Should I Start? J.K. Dobbins or Jaylen Warren

Sunday, February 15, 9:26 AM

Running back J.K. Dobbins signed a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Denver Broncos late in the 2025 offseason, and through the first 10 weeks of the season, he looked like one of the best values of the year. Dobbins ran for 772 yards and four touchdowns before going down to a Lisfranc injury that ultimately ended his season. Once again set to hit the open market, Dobbins has recently indicated a preference to return to Denver. Should he sign another short-term deal with the Broncos, he would likely be given the inside track to starting duties over second-round pick RJ Harvey. While Harvey showed a knack for finding the end zone as a rookie, he could not come close to matching Dobbins' efficiency behind one of the premier offensive lines in the league, averaging 3.7 yards per carry to Dobbins' 5.0. Where Harvey truly excelled was in the passing game, and if Denver runs back the same pairing in 2026, it's difficult to envision another landing spot for Dobbins with more clearly defined roles or higher upside within what will likely be some form of committee.

Thursday, February 12, 1:19 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren had the best fantasy finish of his career in 2025, and he could take another step forward with less competition next season. Warren entered the 2025 campaign as the Steelers' preferred running back after Najee Harris departed in free agency. The expectation was that Warren would gradually lose touches to Kaleb Johnson, but instead, he found himself in a split backfield with Kenneth Gainwell. While sharing touches with Gainwell, Warren tallied 958 rushing yards, 333 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. He finished as the overall RB17 in full-PPR leagues, while Gainwell was the RB16. Gainwell is expected to hit free agency this offseason, and early rumors indicate that the Steelers don't plan to re-sign him. Presumably, they'll bring in another running back or give more touches to Johnson. However, as the incumbent starter, Warren should maintain a heavy workload and fantasy relevance. He has shown an ability to produce as a ball-carrier and pass-catcher, and he flashed a nose for the end zone by doubling his previous career-high touchdown total. Warren is a solid hold in dynasty leagues, and he projects as a mid-range RB2 option in redraft leagues for 2026.