Broncos Receive Encouraging Injury Update on RJ Harvey Ahead of Jaguars Matchup

The Denver Broncos received positive injury news on Wednesday. 

Rookie running back RJ Harvey returned to practice in full while the team began preparations for its Week 16 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Harvey briefly exited Sunday’s win over the Green Bay Packers with a rib injury. 

As CBS Sports noted, his practice participation today suggests he has avoided anything serious and is trending toward playing this weekend. 

Head coach Sean Payton also downplayed concerns today, saying Harvey was “doing good” and should be ready to go.

That optimism was reinforced when Harvey was seen taking part in practice, a development first reported by CBS Colorado’s Romi Bean.

With Denver favored at home and firmly in the playoff hunt, keeping its emerging lead running back on track is a major boost. 

RJ Harvey’s Positive Injury Update

Harvey’s status initially raised some eyebrows after he missed the final few snaps in Denver’s win over the Packers. 

The rookie was dealing with a rib issue suffered late in the fourth quarter, creating early-week uncertainty given his growing importance to the Broncos’ offense. 

However, the concern has steadily eased as the week has progressed. 

Payton has now indicated that RJ Harvey is “good” and is “not concerned.” 

The Broncos also clarified that the recent signing of running back Cody Schrader was unrelated to Harvey’s health, further signaling confidence that their rookie starter would be available.

Payton also addressed Harvey’s lone mistake from Sunday. 

He attributed it to a strong defensive play rather than poor ball security. 

There has been no indication of reduced trust from the coaching staff, and Harvey’s full participation in practice puts him firmly on track to suit up on Sunday

Why Harvey’s Availability Is Massive for Denver

Harvey being able to play Sunday is significant for a Broncos offense that has increasingly leaned on him as its primary ball carrier. 

Since taking over lead duties following J.K. Dobbins’ season-ending foot injury, Harvey has taken over as the work horse. 

Against Green Bay, Harvey logged a 68 percent snap share and carried the ball 19 times for 65 yards and a touchdown. 

Over the past four games, he ranks as the RB6 in PPR fantasy points per game, cementing himself as a centerpiece of Denver’s attack. 

This continues a stretch of heavy usage that has helped stabilize the offense from its early-season struggles. 

Payton did note he wanted to get Jaleel McLaughlin more touches to help manage Harvey’s workload, but there’s little doubt Denver will continue to feature the rookie if he’s healthy. 

With the Jaguars coming to town and postseason positioning on the line, Harvey’s ability to handle volume will be crucial. 

If he continues practicing through the week, all signs point to Harvey once again leading the backfield on Sunday.