Denver Broncos
· 2026-07-11
Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey, who posted 896 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns as a rookie, has been tagged a 2026 bust by Bleacher Report ahead of training camp. The prediction arrives while the Broncos sit 1st in the American Football Conference with a 14‑3 record and a two‑game winning streak, and they head into a crucial matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on 2026‑09‑15.
Moe Moton, a Bleacher Report analyst, singled out Harvey after reviewing every team’s roster for the upcoming season. He argued that the Broncos’ recent moves—re‑signing veteran J.K. Dobbins and drafting fourth‑round running back Jonah Coleman—signal a reduced role for Harvey. Moton noted Coleman’s 87 catches for 838 yards and three touchdowns in college, suggesting he could eat into Harvey’s pass‑catching duties on early downs.
If Dobbins stays healthy, he’s expected to retain the featured back role. That would push Harvey into a secondary position, possibly sharing snaps with Coleman in a three‑back rotation. The Broncos’ coaching staff, led by head coach Sean Payton, has a history of letting rookies learn from the sidelines, but they also love to give talent a chance to prove itself early. The blend of Harvey’s power running and Coleman’s receiving skill could give Denver the versatility it lacked last season when Dobbins was sidelined.
Harvey’s rookie season proved he can produce when given the ball, but the Broncos’ rushing attack struggled without Dobbins last year. Adding Coleman may address that gap, especially on passing downs. If the two backs click, Denver could finally have a balanced attack that supports quarterback Russell Wilson’s passing game and eases pressure on the offensive line.
The bust label is premature, says many fans, because the Broncos’ offense still needs a reliable ground game to complement its aerial threats. With the team perched atop the AFC and a key divisional clash looming against the Chiefs, every back will be under the microscope. Harvey’s performance in training camp will likely determine whether he becomes a cornerstone of Denver’s run game or slides into a supporting role.
Fantasy managers should watch Harvey’s snap count closely. If the Broncos lean on Dobbins and give Coleman early‑down duties, Harvey’s value could dip. However, injuries or underperformance could thrust him back into a starring role, especially in goal‑line situations where his 12 touchdowns as a rookie show he can finish drives.
The team’s next test comes against the Chiefs on September 15, 2026. A strong showing could cement the backfield hierarchy and silence critics. Until then, Harvey’s fate hangs in the balance, and Denver fans will be watching every practice rep for clues.