The Denver Broncos went into the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear need at running back. With consideration of taking one in the first round, the Broncos decided to go with cornerback Jahdae Barron and wait until round two to take their guy.
In the second round, at the 60th pick overall, the Broncos selected UCF running back RJ Harvey. His addition is a major one, as he immedietly becomes the number one back in Denver.
During a press conference from the Broncos' rookie minicamp, Broncos head coach Sean Payton revealed his game plan intentions with the rookie running back.
In a post on Twitter/X, Andrew Mason of Denver sports 104.3, Payton was asked about Harvey in pass protection, and willingly gave an answer regarding Harvey's usage going into 2025.
Payton said, "I know the question is, 'is he a three down back?' Well, he's going to play on third down."
While the initial question was framed around Harvey's pass protection, which Payton believes Harvey is capable of doing, Payton gave insight into how much they will use their second-round running back.
Being a three-down back in the NFL is reserved for the best of the best, who are skilled in the run game, receiving game, and pass protection game.
With Paytons vote of confidence that Harvey will play on third downs, comparing that role to Darren Sproles and Alvin Kamara, Harvey seems to be in line for a heavy workload in his rookie year.
Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey (37) during rookie minicamp at Broncos Park Powered by CommonSpirit.
Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey (37) during rookie minicamp at Broncos Park Powered by CommonSpirit.
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Harvey isn't unfamiliar with a heavy workload. In his 2024 season at UCF, Harvey had 1,577 rushing yards and 22 rushing touchdowns on 232 carries. He also saw some receiving work, hauling in 20 receptions for 267 yards and 3 touchdowns.
In 2024, Harvey started every game for UCF, and was a major contributor in the run and pass game. Though the biggest question mark for him will be whether he can protect Bo Nix at the NFL level.
According to Pro Football Focus, Harvey allowed 12 pressures and 3 sacks on 78 pass-blocking opportunities. His pass blocking grade was a 21.8, the 30th worst grade among all college running backs in 2024, and the 10th worst among all running backs from the 2025 NFL Draft class.
But despite the concerning underlying metrics in pass protection, the belief from Payton in Harvey to be a pass-blocker is a good sign that Harvey will see not just early down work, but third-down work.
It's a vote of confidence in Harvey, who could be in line for a massive season in 2025 if Payton plays Harvey on all three downs.