In a stunning development that has set the Denver Broncos fanbase ablaze with emotion, Head Coach Sean Payton announced today that R.J. Harvey has officially been named the starting running back for the 2025 NFL season.
The announcement came during a mid-morning press conference following the team’s final day of mandatory minicamp. Payton, known for his bold moves and offensive innovation, praised Harvey’s “explosiveness, vision, and relentless work ethic” in earning the top spot.
“R.J. has shown us everything we look for in a lead back,” Payton told reporters. “His burst, his ability to finish runs, and his understanding of the system have made it clear he’s ready. He’s earned it.”
Fan Reaction: Shock, Excitement, and Questions
The news sent immediate shockwaves through Broncos Country. Social media lit up with a mixture of disbelief and cautious optimism, especially given Harvey’s relatively quiet profile heading into camp.
Many fans expected Javonte Williams or recent free-agent addition Samaje Perine to secure the starting role. Harvey, a standout at UCF and a 2024 undrafted free agent signing, was considered more of a depth piece—or at best, a project player.
“Wait… R.J. Harvey? As in the guy who wasn’t even drafted???” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), echoing the surprise felt across the community.
Others were more hopeful:
“If Sean Payton sees something in him, I’m willing to give the kid a shot. Let’s see what he can do. Remember when we doubted Lindsay?”
Harvey’s Rise: A Cinderella Story?
Harvey has been turning heads quietly since rookie minicamp, but few expected him to leapfrog the Broncos’ more established backs so quickly. In practice scrimmages, he showcased elite acceleration, solid pass-catching skills, and a clear understanding of Payton’s complex playbook.
Former players and analysts have begun drawing comparisons to other undrafted success stories like Arian Foster and Phillip Lindsay, who both carved out Pro Bowl careers from humble beginnings.
What This Means for the Offense
With Harvey now slated as RB1, questions turn to how this affects the rest of the Broncos’ offensive scheme. Insiders suggest that Payton may be leaning into a faster-paced, outside-zone-heavy running attack that fits Harvey’s skill set.
“This move tells me Denver wants speed and shiftiness out of the backfield,” said NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger. “Harvey brings that in ways few expected.”
