Broncos RB RJ Harvey could have a breakout receiving season

Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey could be a key part of the team’s passing game in his second season.

Harvey totaled 47 receptions for 356 yards and five touchdowns last year, and he showed off his receiving skills last week when he hauled in a 21-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bo Nix.

“That’s where you felt the initial impact,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said of Harvey’s receiving ability, “and you saw marks of that in college and you also saw him as a runner. He’s having a good camp in both areas [rushing and receiving], but it’s certainly a strength of his.”

Our first TD at @EmpowerField this preseason 🙌

📺: 9NEWS pic.twitter.com/DGInjQAWXd

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) August 22, 2026

Alvin Kamara was a prolific receiver out of the backfield during Payton’s time with the New Orleans Saints, and while Harvey is a different player in a different offense, he could be poised for a big year in a similar receiving role.

Last week, Nix was asked about Harvey’s growth as a receiver out of the backfield.

“Well, honestly, he was like that last year, so the growth I haven’t seen much because he started so far out in front as a pass catcher,” Nix said. “I knew when he came in last year, seeing him for the first time at practice, that that was going to be his strongest ability. The catch he made wasn’t necessarily easy. He’s just done that his career here so far, just over a year and some change. I’m excited to see him continue to develop. He’s a special football player.”

J.K. Dobbins remains Denver’s starting running back, and rookie Jonah Coleman figures to carve out a role, but Harvey’s involvement in the passing game will be notable for fantasy football managers who play in point-per-reception (PPR) leagues. The Broncos appear set to have a three-back rotation in 2026 — a great real-life scenario that can frustrate fantasy managers — and Harvey seems to be the favorite to lead the backfield in receptions.

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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Broncos RB RJ Harvey could have a breakout receiving season