After dominating the Orlando High School Football scene at the quarterback position, current Denver Broncos rookie running back RJ Harvey, committed to the University of Virginia in 2019. After little to no action in his freshman year, Harvey returned home to UCF, transitioning to running back.
Harvey became a hometown legend.
In his four years behind the Knights' offensive line, Harvey accumulated over 4,500 yards from scrimmage while crossing the goal line a program-best 48 times. Harvey broke the record last year, in dramatic fashion, cashing in on a receiving touchdown late in the fourth quarter during his last game at UCF.
Following a standout college career, the Denver Broncos picked Harvey in the second round (60th overall) of this past year's NFL Draft. The Broncos front office praised Harvey for his vision behind blockers and ability to change directions smoothly.
His running style - we feel he's dynamic," said George Paton, General Manager of the Denver Broncos. "He has really good vision, really good instincts, really good contact balance. Highly explosive. We thought maybe he had the best vision in the draft."
Harvey came into the season splitting carries alongside Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins, but has seen his role steadily increase thanks to his efficient and effective play. In week one, Harvey made the most of his six carries, totaling 70 yards, and moving to 1-0 in his NFL career as the Broncos defeated the Titans 20-12.
Last night, in a 28-3 rout against the Cincinnati Bengals, Harvey got his most run yet. The young tailback mustered 14 carries for 58 yards while adding four catches for an additional 40 yards. Most notably. Harvey leaked out to the left of Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, and caught a 12-yard swing pass, waltzing into the end zone untouched.
Thanks to Harvey's best NFL performance yet, he was nominated for NFL Rookie of the Week Honors.