RJ Harvey’s wait is over. After months of watching the calendar and talking about what happens in late April, the running back now has to back it up. Fans are just starting to get to know him and the rest of the Denver Broncos’ draft class.
However, as a second-round pick, the expectations on Harvey are high by default. One former Broncos running back already has his view on the rookie.
Chase Edmonds Sets Expectations for Broncos Rookie RJ Harvey
Speaking on the April 28 edition of “Good Morning Football,” former Broncos running back Chase Edmonds had nothing but praise for the UCF star. He even dropped a comparison that should excite Broncos fans.
#BroncosCountry get your kool-aid ready, this brother is bringing the juice" – @ChaseEdmonds22 with that RB love 🏃 pic.twitter.com/RFj3kS5NPN
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb)
“I absolutely love this guy. You talk about juice, you talk about the ability to get skinny to get to the outside, Bronco Country, let me tell you something right now, get your Kool-Aid ready because this brother is bringing the juice. Bring the juice, RJ Harvey. I’m telling you, the boy is special. … He reminds me of … Bucky Irving,” Edmonds said.
With the Broncos spending the 60th overall pick on Harvey, the expectations are set high. The team clearly believes Harvey can become a major part of their offense.
At UCF, Harvey racked up at least 1,400 yards and 16 touchdowns in each of his final two seasons. His 22 rushing touchdowns led the Big 12 in 2024. While he’s entering the NFL riding serious momentum, he might still have a climb ahead to lock down the starting role.
Harvey Might Have a Climb to Start in NFL Week 1
Before he knows it, Week 1 will be here. Between now and then, Harvey will have to prove to Sean Payton that he’s ready to lead the backfield of a playoff contender.
To do that, he’ll need to beat out running backs Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime. Both backs had bright moments during the 2024 campaign, as the Broncos finished 16th overall in PFSN’s Offense+ metrics. Harvey will have plenty of competition and plenty to prove.
This backfield isn’t going to hand him the job without a fight. While the competition isn’t expected to turn toxic, it will be tough for a rookie to learn the system while battling more experienced players.
The biggest issue? Time. Even with more than four months before the regular season opener, Harvey will only have three or fewer preseason games and a limited number of padded practices to win over Payton.
Harvey has his work cut out for him. If he wants to set the tone in September, he’ll need to be nearly flawless this summer to convince Payton he’s ready to carry the load.
