The Emerging Fantasy Football Star: RJ Harvey and the Denver Broncos in 2025
RJ Harvey’s arrival in Denver has electrified the fantasy football landscape. Selected 60th overall in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Broncos, Harvey brings a blend of skill, speed, and versatility that is shaking up expectations for the team’s backfield—and fantasy rosters alike. This report delves into Harvey’s profile, his fit within the Broncos’ offense, and the fantasy implications heading into the 2025 NFL season.
—
Background and Draft Insights
RJ Harvey was somewhat of a surprise pick at 60th overall, as many analysts pegged him as a fourth-round prospect. A product of the University of Central Florida (UCF), Harvey boasts an impressive collegiate career, rushing for nearly 3,000 yards and scoring 38 touchdowns over his final two seasons. Despite less-than-prototypical size and some skepticism from scouts, his exceptional production and advanced analytics hinted at a high ceiling.
Denver’s choice to draft Harvey was seen not only as a nod to his talent but as a strategic move to inject explosiveness and receiving versatility into the backfield. Harvey’s prior experience as a collegiate quarterback provides a rare skill set that extends beyond traditional rushing abilities—a trait Sean Payton and Broncos head coach value in their offensive scheme.
—
Skill Set and Playing Style
RJ Harvey’s game is characterized by:
– Burst and Agility: His quickness and acceleration, especially noted during rookies minicamp and OTA practices, allow him to create separation and make defenders miss with sharp cuts and spins.
– Vision: Praised by Broncos’ GM George Paton and Sean Payton, Harvey’s field vision stands out among his peers, enabling him to find running lanes others might miss.
– Pass-catching Ability: While not expected to be a pure receiving back immediately, there is a strong belief in his potential to contribute significantly in the passing game. Early OTAs have shown that Harvey is already getting “ample work” as a target out of the backfield, hinting at a three-down role.
– Versatility: His transition from high school quarterback to college running back has provided him with a broad football IQ and adaptability, positioning him well to fit seamlessly into dynamic offensive roles.
—
Role Within the Broncos Offensive Backfield
The Broncos’ backfield entering 2025 appears to be one of healthy competition and multiple threats. The presence of veterans and emerging players like Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime creates a dynamic committee approach. However, the draft-day investment in Harvey signals Denver’s confidence in him becoming the lead back, or at minimum, a featured component in their offense.
Sean Payton’s offense is known for its creativity and diverse utilization of running backs, and RJ Harvey’s skillset aligns well with this philosophy. Reports suggest Harvey will receive opportunities on early downs and in passing situations—contributions that enhance his fantasy appeal.
The coaching staff’s patience with Harvey while encouraging a fuller role as he proves consistency puts him on track to be a fantasy breakout candidate. Analysts note he may soon solidify himself as the No. 2 rookie running back in average draft position (ADP), highlighting the growing confidence around his upside.
—
Fantasy Football Implications and Projections
RJ Harvey’s arrival reshapes the Broncos’ fantasy outlook across several dimensions:
– High Volume Opportunity: Harvey’s projected workload offers promising fantasy potential. The narrative that he is “the first option in the run game” implies control over early-down carries with avenues for receiving work, making him a potential three-down back.
– Receiving Upside: Given Sean Payton’s track record of leveraging running backs in the passing game, Harvey’s receiving skills add a layer of value rarely available in rookie runners. This dual-threat capability not only generates yards but increases touchdown and target volume.
– Competition and Committee Risks: While the presence of other backs in Denver’s backfield suggests a split role, the explosion and vision Harvey displays create a compelling case for him to earn the lion’s share of touches if he continues to perform.
– ADP and Rookie Status: Many fantasy analysts are already adjusting Harvey’s draft value upward based on his early OTAs and preseason evaluations. His second-round rookie draft position makes him an under-the-radar gem with breakout potential unlike many other backs taken around that range.
—
Early Reports from Offseason Workouts and Minicamp
– Instant Impact: Coaches and teammates have lauded Harvey’s quick adaptation to the pro game, noting his “burst” and “explosiveness” in drills and team work.
– Media Observations: Coverage during OTAs highlights Harvey’s usage in the passing game and his growing role as a legitimate piece in Denver’s offense.
– Player Impressions: Fellow Broncos quarterback Bo Nix and coach Sean Payton have publicly praised Harvey’s abilities and preparedness, reinforcing optimism about his role.
Such positive early evaluations bode well for Harvey to not only make the roster but to carve out significant touches by season start.
—
Challenges and Factors to Monitor
While the outlook is bright, several factors could influence Harvey’s trajectory:
– Adjusting to NFL Defenses: The transition from college to the NFL’s faster, stronger defenses always poses a challenge. Harvey’s initial performance and ability to maintain consistency will be crucial.
– Backfield Competition: The Broncos’ backfield is crowded with young talents; injury or inconsistent play from others could accelerate Harvey’s ascension, but conversely, shared workload could cap ceiling.
– Health and Durability: Maintaining physical health will be key for sustained fantasy value; fresh off his draft and early workouts, avoiding injury is fundamental.
—
Conclusion: A Dual-Threat Rookie Poised to Break Out
RJ Harvey’s blend of explosive running, intelligent vision, and growing receiving role positions him as one of the most intriguing rookie running backs entering the 2025 season. His landing spot in Denver under Sean Payton’s offense is arguably ideal for maximizing his versatility and fantasy potential.
As the Broncos begin OTAs and move toward training camp, Harvey’s progression will be closely watched by fantasy managers eager for a breakout star. Those who recognize and act on his upside early stand to benefit from a backfield weapon who can deliver across multiple dimensions.
Denver’s investment in Harvey, combined with his skill set and early praise, signals a potential shift in the Broncos’ offensive identity—a shift that could place RJ Harvey at the center of fantasy football conversations throughout the 2025 season and beyond.
