Broncos’ Running Back Battle: Will Rookie RJ Harvey Overtake the Veterans?

By Jason Bolton June 12, 2025 09:34

The Denver Broncos’ running back room is shaping up to be one of the most compelling position battles of the 2025 NFL season, with rookie RJ Harvey poised to challenge the established veterans for the lead role. Selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Harvey enters a backfield in transition, aiming to carve out a significant role under head coach Sean Payton’s offense, which is known for its dynamic use of running backs in both the rushing and passing games.

Harvey’s college career at UCF showcased his versatility and efficiency. Over his final three seasons, he earned a 95.1 rushing grade, placing him in the 91st percentile among running back prospects since 2017, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). His ability to avoid tackles and generate yards after contact, combined with solid receiving skills averaging 20 receptions and over 200 receiving yards per season make him an intriguing dual-threat option for Denver’s offense. At 5-foot-8 and 205 pounds, Harvey’s build and elusiveness draw comparisons to successful NFL backs like Devonta Freeman and Michael Carter.

The Broncos’ backfield last season was led by Javonte Williams, who handled roughly 40% of the team’s running back carries but departed in free agency. Denver’s offensive line graded among the top 12 in run blocking, providing a solid foundation for any lead back. Harvey is widely viewed as the early favorite to assume the primary rushing and passing-down duties, though he faces competition from veterans Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin, who combined for limited goal-line and scoring opportunities last year.

Fantasy football analysts have taken notice of Harvey’s potential. PFF’s player profile highlights Denver’s league-leading running back receptions under Sean Payton, emphasizing Harvey’s projected role as the team’s primary receiving back. This is crucial, as the Broncos have caught 214 passes from running backs over the past two years, more than any other NFL team. Harvey’s receiving ability could be a key factor in his ascendancy.

However, expectations for Harvey’s rookie season are tempered by some projections. ESPN analyst Mike Clay forecasts Harvey to rush for approximately 823 yards and five touchdowns, with 46 receptions for 350 yards and two receiving touchdowns. While these numbers are modest compared to some rookie peers, they reflect a realistic outlook given Denver’s overall offensive uncertainties, including predicted struggles from quarterback Bo Nix.

Veteran Joe Mixon, now with the Houston Texans, remains a benchmark for reliability and volume, but Harvey’s youth and skill set position him as a high-upside candidate to eventually surpass more established backs. Mixon’s consistency contrasts with Harvey’s upside, making the Broncos’ backfield competition one of the more intriguing position battles in the league.

Broncos offensive coordinator Sean Payton’s system, which heavily involves running backs in the passing game and situational rushing, bodes well for Harvey’s development. If he can seize the passing-down role and earn at least eight carries per game, a top-10 fantasy running back season is within reach.

In summary, RJ Harvey’s rookie campaign will be closely watched as he battles to overtake veteran backs and establish himself as Denver’s lead running back. His combination of rushing efficiency, receiving prowess, and fit in a pass-heavy offense give him a promising path to success. While modest projections suggest a solid but not spectacular rookie year, the Broncos’ investment and Payton’s system could unlock Harvey’s full potential, making the running back battle one of the most exciting storylines of the 2025 NFL season.