Is Broncos’ Rookie RB RJ Harvey Headed for Fantasy Stardom?

The Denver Broncos left the second round of the NFL Draft with a pick that is getting some within the fantasy football community very excited.

According to ESPN's Matt Bowen, Broncos' running back RJ Harvey is the third-ranked rookie for fantasy football heading into this season. 

Bowen cited Harvey's 4.40 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine, his ability to run with balance, and Sean Payton's ability to use running backs in the passing game as key reasons why.

All of those factors scream similarities to a young Alvin Kamara with the New Orleans Saints. That is not to say Harvey should be expected to produce like Kamara, but he may be primed for a big role this upcoming season.

Plus, according to CBS Sports' Dan Schneier, Broncos running backs had the fifth-highest target share on their team (22%) compared to the rest of the NFL.

Still, Bowen rated Harvey behind two running backs that also happen to be in the AFC West. The Las Vegas Raiders' Ashton Jeanty (first) and the Los Angeles Chargers' Omarion Hampton (second).

Jeanty was the consensus top running back in the draft class, so there is no surprise there. Plus, Hampton is playing for Jim Harbaugh, who loves utilizing his running backs and pounding the rock.

Still, Harvey and Hampton's values were closely aligned. Hampton was suggested as a fifth-round pick in a fantasy draft, while Bowen believed Harvey should go in the fifth or sixth round.

With two backs also competing for reps, 2024 fifth-rounder Audric Estime and 2023 undrafted free agent Jaleel McLaughlin, Harvey has a path to taking over a key role in an offense that is looking for someone to emerge.