The Denver Broncos' running back, RJ Harvey, is gearing up for his second year in the NFL, with a focus on improving his consistency and big-play ability. Harvey's rookie season was a bit of a rollercoaster, with him showing flashes of brilliance but also struggling with inconsistency. Now, he's taking a proactive approach to his development by studying the film of top backs in the league, including Christian McCaffrey, Kenneth Walker, and Jahmyr Gibbs.
In my opinion, Harvey's decision to immerse himself in the film study of these elite backs is a strategic move. It demonstrates his awareness of the competition and his desire to elevate his game. By analyzing the techniques and strategies of these dual threats, Harvey can gain insights into how to become a more well-rounded and effective player. Personally, I think this is a smart move, as it allows him to learn from the best and potentially unlock new dimensions of his own abilities.
The Broncos' commitment to a committee approach, with the re-signing of J.K. Dobbins and the drafting of Jonah Coleman, adds another layer of complexity to Harvey's situation. While this may limit his opportunities for carries, it also opens up possibilities for him to develop as a pass catcher in a Joker-type role. Sean Payton's offense often utilizes such versatile players, and Harvey's ability to contribute in the passing game could be a significant asset.
However, the key to Harvey's success in Year 2 will be his ability to translate what he learns from the film into actual production on the field. It's one thing to watch the best in the game, but another to replicate their success. Harvey will need to find a way to take the insights he gains from studying film and apply them to his own game, while also navigating the competitive dynamics within the team.
In my view, the Broncos' strategy of studying film from top backs is a smart move, but it's the execution that will ultimately determine Harvey's success. He'll need to be patient, persistent, and willing to adapt as he works to carve out his own role in the offense. If he can do that, he may just find himself becoming a key component of the Broncos' running game, and a player to watch in the coming seasons.