The New Reality No.254: Player Utilization Signals

From dynasty team-building and player evaluations to NFL research and forecasting, Chad Parsons covers the landscape of dynasty fantasy football in The New Reality.

Chad Parsons's The New Reality No.254: Player Utilization Signals Chad Parsons Published 09/16/2026

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With one week of utilization data, player usage offers opportunities on the dynasty landscape. Here is an early look (expect multiple check-ins throughout the season) at the key players on each NFL team and their usage.

Running Back Utilization

Last season, Week 1 showed strong signals for Javonte WilliamsJ.K. Dobbins, and Kenny Gainwell as value positions. Here are the takeaways from Week 1 this season:

Underrated Workhorse Profiles

Ken Walker III, Chiefs: His Kansas City debut had an elite 74% rushing and 58% route market share. With Patrick Mahomes II's limitations, expect a heavy dose of Walker in an elite run game design with Andy Reid.

Chuba Hubbard, Panthers: While all of the buzz in August was with Jonathon Brooks, Hubbard had a big edge over Brooks as the RB1 with 52% rushing and 59% route market share. Brooks has a decent chunk of improvement to challenge Hubbard for the lead role.

Rhamondre Stevenson, Patriots: While dependent on TreVeyon Henderson being out, Week 1 was a reminder of Stevenson's workhorse role in games Henderson misses with 75% rushing and 76% route share.

Bucky Irving, Buccaneers: Kenny Gainwell did not have the type of limiting market share to Irving as thought possible entering Week 1. Irving is stable with 62% rushing and 61% route share. Gainwell lost RB2 or flex appeal out of the gate, and Irving benefits as a solid starter.

Cam Skattebo, Giants: Week 1 was a win for Skattebo with Najee Harris a surprise inactive and Skattebo securing 69% rushing and 41% route share. Tyrone Tracy Jr. looks like a non-factor on the depth chart as well.

Concerning Week 1 Running Back Utilization

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