Broncos Rookie RJ Harvey Makes Franchise History in Win Over Chiefs

RJ Harvey’s rookie season continues to climb into rare air. 

Thursday’s win over the Kansas City Chiefs gave the Denver Broncos another reminder that they may have found a long-term difference-maker in their backfield. 

According to Underdog NFL, Harvey became one of just a handful of running backs in league history to post five or more rushing touchdowns and five or more receiving touchdowns as a rookie. 

He joins a list of names like Alvin Kamara, Gale Sayers, Charley Taylor, and Doak Walker. 

The list underscores just how uncommon Harvey’s dual-threat production has been this season. 

Adding to that milestone, DNVR’s Zac Stevens noted that Harvey is the first rookie in Broncos franchise history to record a rushing or receiving touchdown in five straight games. 

This has further cemented his place in Broncos franchise history. 

Quarterback Bo Nix made sure to spread the credit afterward, praising Harvey’s instincts and football IQ. 

“You can tell he’s been in my shoes before throwing,” Nix said. 

He called the rookie “a really savvy football player” who consistently understands spacing and timing within the offense. 

Harvey’s Rise Since Dobbins’ Injury

Harvey’s breakout has been especially pronounced since the injury to J.K. Dobbins reshaped Denver’s backfield. 

Since taking over the backfield, Harvey has been both dependable and dynamic, impacting the game as a runner and receiver.

Over that stretch, Harvey has become one of the most productive backs in football. 

He ranks as fantasy football’s RB6 since Dobbins went down. 

His production has been easy to trust each week because he affects the game in so many areas. 

From early-down carries to goal-line touches and catches out of the backfield, Harvey has helped keep the offense balanced. 

In the last five games, Harvey has six touchdowns and 18 catches. 

Beyond the numbers, his big-play ability has stood out. 

Harvey has had crucial big runs at times including a 38-yard touchdown against the Jaguars. 

Harvey has consistently turned short passes into big gains and also has been a key factor in pass protection. 

A Signature Performance Against Kansas City

That trust in Harvey was on full display against the Chiefs, particularly in the fourth quarter. 

As the game got close down the stretch, Denver repeatedly put the ball in his hands. 

The coaching staff is confident he could make the right read or force the defense into mistakes.

One of the most pivotal moments came when Harvey’s alignment and movement helped draw star defensive tackle Chris Jones offside. 

This was a key play that extended the game-winning touchdown drive. 

Plays like that don’t show up in the box score, but they highlight why Harvey has earned the coaching staff’s confidence. 

The game ended with Harvey catching the game-winning touchdown, sealing the win and capping off a historic day. 

The performance was another sign that Harvey isn’t just flashing potential, but establishing himself as a core piece for the Broncos going forward.

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