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Sean Payton Gives High Praise to Broncos' Rookie RB
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos began their second week of training camp this week, but the first in pads. Head coach Sean Payton said over the weekend he was anxious to see what the running backs would look like this week, and he's already been impressed by one player in particular.

Broncos' rookie running back RJ Harvey stole the show Tuesday at practice. Denver drafted Harvey in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of UCF. The Golden Knight had a stellar career in the Big-12, racking up nearly 3,000 rushing yards, almost 40 rushing touchdowns, and just shy of 500 receiving yards with four receiving touchdowns.

Harvey led the Big-12 in yards per attempt, averaging nearly seven yards per carry, rushing touchdowns, and scrimmage touchdowns, totaling 25 touchdowns on the season.

With the departure of Javonte Williams in the offseason, the Broncos used their second-round pick on the UCF product, and he's already impressing his new head coach in Denver.

"For him particularly - the protections, the speed of the game - he had a run today that was something. And we kind of turned and looked at each other," Payton said. "But there's that learning curve for all of those young players ... Some of it happens a little quicker maybe, than others, but, he's doing exceptional."

Harvey will be part of a backfield duo with free agent signee J.K. Dobbins for the Broncos. Dobbins brings four years of experience to Denver, but has only played more than half a season in his rookie year and last year. However, when Dobbins has been healthy, he's been extremely productive.

The two backs will be competing in training camp for the No. 1 role, but expect the duo to work in tandem throughout the season.

Harvey left UCF as the program's all-time leader in touchdowns and second in rushing yards. The star running back became the highest drafted running back in UCF history when the Broncos took him in the second round. Now, the rookie is already making his impact in his first NFL training camp.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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