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The Denver Broncos’ preseason is heating up, and RJ Harvey’s name is echoing louder and louder through the team’s halls. The young running back, who already made waves as a rookie in the NFL, isn’t satisfied with his 2025 performance. Now, he’s obsessed with perfecting his offensive arsenal. What’s his secret weapon? Deep-diving into the moves and tricks of the best running backs on the planet.
Harvey isn’t the type to rest on his laurels after a good season. He’s admitted to spending long hours watching tape of superstars like Christian McCaffrey, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Kenneth Walker III. “I’m just watching more film, checking out other guys in the league, seeing what they do. I watch a lot of McCaffrey, Walker, Gibbs—guys like that. I’m just trying to pick up things from their tape to help my own game. In my second year in the system, I feel way more comfortable, and it’s only going to get better from here,” Harvey told local media.
Harvey’s ambition is no accident. As a rookie, he led the Broncos in touchdowns with 12 total scores (7 rushing, 5 receiving), racking up 590 rushing yards and 390 receiving yards on 146 carries and 47 catches. But he wants more—he’s aiming to be that Swiss Army knife who can explode on any play, whether he’s pounding it between the tackles or sneaking out as a surprise receiver.
Harvey’s Lab: How Do You Build an Elite Running Back?
Harvey’s process goes way beyond highlight reels. He studies every detail: how McCaffrey finds impossible gaps, Gibbs’ open-field burst, and Walker’s patience waiting for the perfect block. It’s not just about copying—it’s about blending the best of each into his own style.
The Broncos’ staff, led by Sean Payton, loves this obsession with the details. Denver’s offense demands backs who can catch passes, read defenses, and run routes like wideouts. Harvey, with his vision and sure hands, fits that mold perfectly. “He knows how to find space… He’s a really smart football player. He does things you just can’t teach—he’s got those tools in his bag,” praised quarterback Bo Nix.
The competition in Denver’s backfield is fierce. With J.K. Dobbins healthy again and rookie Jonah Coleman joining the mix, it’s a real dogfight. Harvey knows he has to reinvent himself and bring something new to the table if he wants a starring role—maybe even as a “Joker” type, that wild card who can line up anywhere and drive defenses crazy.
The Next Level: Can Harvey Become Sean Payton’s Secret Weapon?
The Broncos’ offense is searching for identity and fireworks after a rollercoaster season. Harvey, with his work ethic and hunger to improve, could be the spark that ignites the attack. His knack for gaining yards after contact and his instinct for finding holes make him a nightmare for any defense.
In 2025, Harvey proved he could carry the offense when needed—especially after Dobbins’ injury. Now, with a year of experience and a student’s mindset, he’s aiming to be much more than just a complementary piece. His goal is clear: to be the go-to guy in the backfield and one of the most feared names in the AFC West.
Harvey sums it up best: “In my second year in the system, I feel way more comfortable, and it’s only going to get better from here.” If he can bring everything he’s learned from McCaffrey, Gibbs, and Walker to the field, Broncos fans can dream of a revamped, explosive offense.
The Big Picture: Broncos’ Backfield Is High Voltage
The competition in Denver’s backfield never lets up. Sean Payton loves a running back committee, but Harvey’s versatility and nose for the end zone put him in the spotlight for a bigger role. His ability to catch passes and see the field makes him perfect for trick plays and wide-open formations.
With the offense searching for new weapons and the coaching staff ready to experiment, Harvey has the perfect setup to become the wild card every coach dreams of. If he keeps grinding and soaking up the best from the league’s stars, his ceiling is sky-high.
Frequently Asked Questions About RJ Harvey and the Broncos
Why does RJ Harvey study other NFL running backs?
Harvey wants to add new techniques and moves from the league’s best to his own game, making himself more versatile in the Broncos’ offense.
What were Harvey’s rookie stats?
In 2025, he racked up 590 rushing yards, 390 receiving yards, and 12 total touchdowns, leading the Broncos in scoring.
What’s Harvey’s role in Denver’s backfield?
He’s fighting to be the lead back, but his skills as a receiver make him a perfect “Joker” type—able to line up anywhere and keep defenses guessing.
What do his teammates and coaches think?
Quarterback Bo Nix and Sean Payton’s staff rave about his smarts, vision, and ability to make plays you just can’t teach.
What can Broncos fans expect from Harvey in 2026?
A more mature, explosive Harvey—hungry to become one of the most complete running backs in the NFL.
