Harvey's impactful rookie season earns him AFC Rookie of the Year, proving crucial for Denver's success when called upon.
Although Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey lost the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Award to Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillian, the Panini Senior Bowl recognized his tremendous rookie season.
The Panini Senior Bowl named Harvey the AFC Rookie of the Year after stepping up in the absence of J.K. Dobbins.
"A second-round pick who emerged as a key weapon for Denver," the Panini Senior Bowl X account posted. "Harvey totaled 896 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns on 193 touches in 2025. He stepped into a larger role late in the season and became a major contributor down the stretch."
Harvey's role increased when Dobbins suffered a season-ending left Lisfranc injury in Week 10 against the Las Vegas Raiders. He averaged 13.7 carries and 46.6 yards in the remaining seven games for the Broncos.
The UCF alum recorded two rushing touchdowns against the Washington Commanders in Week 12, cementing his second multi-touchdown game of the season. Harvey played a crucial role in helping Denver pull off a nail-biting victory against the Kansas City Chiefs several weeks later.
His performances for the Broncos weren't flashy or jaw-dropping, but when his team needed him, he delivered. Coach Sean Payton and quarterback Bo Nix sang their praises for Harvey's contributions against the Chiefs.
"He's a really savvy football player," Nix said. "He does a lot of things that are sort of unteachable, just stuff he has in his toolbox. He'll do stuff like that all the time, that's just sort of football savvy, and it just worked to where he bought some time in the end zone and made a good catch."
Payton complimented Harvey's versatility, which played a factor in his touchdown catch against Kansas City.
"Man, he's got receiver skill sets," Payton said. "I couldn't see the angle, and I heard the cheer, and I just said, 'Please tell me that's not an interception,' cuz it was loud. I didn't know if it was a Kansas City cheer; fortunately, it was the Broncos cheer. I'm sure it was a heck of a throw and a catch, but to score seven, it greatly changes the dynamic with their kicker."
Although Harvey played a significant role in helping the Broncos win their division, he didn't have an amazing playoff performance to guide them to the Super Bowl. He carried the ball 19 times for 57 yards across two games.
Harvey's contributions to Denver's season while Dobbins sat on the sidelines could create a formidable running back duo when his teammate returns from injury next season.
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