RJ Harvey’s Matchup Signals a Key Fantasy Decision Ahead of Packers Showdown

As the fantasy football playoffs begin this weekend, few players are drawing more last-minute debate than Denver Broncos rookie running back RJ Harvey.

As RotoBaller noted, the Week 15 matchup against Green Bay looks tricky as the Packers rank eighth in rushing yards allowed per game (101.8). 

But Harvey’s usage, versatility, and recent production suggest this is exactly the type of spot where he can tilt both fantasy matchups and a playoff race.

Harvey is coming off the best all-around game of his rookie season, totaling 23 touches for 100 yards.  

He also had a touchdown, while adding six targets as a reliable checkdown option.

Since J.K. Dobbins went down, Sean Payton has increasingly trusted Harvey in high-leverage situations. 

Over the last three games, he’s logged snap shares of 61%, 47%, and a season-high 68%. 

He’s handled 64% of Denver’s backfield rush attempts and 80% of the carries inside the five-yard line. 

That combination of volume and scoring opportunity is rare and make Harvey stand out. 

RJ Harvey’s Week 15 Fantasy Football Outlook

From a fantasy standpoint, Harvey is one of the safest running back plays of the week.

Even in a matchup that doesn’t scream “smash spot,” his role keeps his floor intact. 

He’s recorded two straight games with a rushing touchdown and 25+ receiving yards. 

He joined a short list of backs this season that includes Christian McCaffrey, Josh Jacobs, and Bijan Robinson. 

What really separates Harvey is his involvement in the passing game. 

Last week, he led the Broncos’ backfield with a 48.8% route participation rate. That usage makes him game-script proof. 

If Denver plays from ahead, Harvey handles the workload on the ground.

If the Broncos need to throw, he stays on the field and is a factor in the passing game. 

Despite Green Bay not allowing a running back to hit 13 PPR points in three straight games, fantasy football analysts still view 15 touches as a certainty. 

That alone keeps Harvey firmly in RB2 territory for fantasy managers trying to survive and advance. 

What Harvey Means for the Broncos Against Green Bay

This game carries real weight for Denver.

The Broncos are chasing the conference’s top seed with the Patriots and are in a tightening divisional race with the Chargers. 

Six different Broncos logged a carry last week, but Harvey was the only back trusted with true volume.

This is a clear signal of how the coaching staff views him entering crunch time of the season. 

Against a disciplined Packers defense, Harvey’s versatility becomes critical. 

His ability to turn checkdowns into positive plays helps quarterback Bo Nix stay on schedule, limits negative plays, and will force Green Bay to respect the short passing game.

If Harvey can approach 15-20 touches again, it not only boosts his fantasy value but also gives the Broncos their best path to controlling the tempo of the game. 

Sean Payton has continued to show confidence in Harvey throughout the week, saying, “You haven’t seen anything yet.”

He also called his skill set “rare” and noting that he can be a “special type of player.”

For a rookie, Payton is showing extreme confidence to handle a major workload which should be great news for both Broncos fans and fantasy managers.

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