Broncos Roster Move Sparks New Concern Over RJ Harvey’s Injury Status

The Denver Broncos clinched a playoff berth with their Week 15 win over the Green Bay Packers, but the win may have come at a cost. 

Rookie running back RJ Harvey exited late in the fourth quarter with a rib injury and did not return. 

As Broncos Wire noted, Denver’s roster move the following day added a layer of concern about his availability moving forward. 

Sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson identifying the issue as a rib injury during the broadcast. 

Harvey was initially listed as questionable to return. 

Despite the game remaining competitive throughout, Harvey stayed on the sideline as the Broncos closed out the 34-26 win.

Head coach Sean Payton did not offer an update on Harvey’s status Monday. 

But Denver’s decision to claim running back Cody Schrader off waivers may suggest the team is preparing for the possibility of missed time.

With veteran J.K. Dobbins already on injured reserve, Harvey’s absence would be  significant. 

This is a thin backfield that has leaned heavily on the rookie during the Broncos’ playoff push. 

Why Denver Claimed Cody Schrader

The Broncos claimed Schrader off waivers from the Houston Texans.

They add him to a running back room that already includes Harvey, Jaleel McLaughlin, and Tyler Badie.

Schrader is a second-year back out of Missouri who has bounced between the 49ers, Rams, Jaguars, and Texans over the past year. 

He’s only appeared in two total NFL games. 

While his NFL experience is limited, Schrader was highly productive in college.

He rushed for 1,627 yards and 14 touchdowns in his final season at Missouri. 

NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein described him as “ornery and competitive.”

He pointed out his vision, decisiveness, and willingness to run through contact despite lacking elite explosiveness. 

The timing of the move is notable. 

Denver had multiple opportunities earlier in the season to add a running back but waited until Harvey was injured to do so. 

Another reason for this move could be that Schrader spent time this season with the Jaguars, the team the Broncos face this week. 

This could be a strategic move to give the Broncos familiarity with the upcoming opponent’s system and personnel.  

At minimum and strategy, the move provides depth. 

At most, it signals real concern about Harvey’s short-term outlook. 

RJ Harvey’s Injury and Fantasy Football Outlook

From a fantasy perspective, Harvey’s injury is one to monitor closely throughout the week. 

Rib injuries can vary widely in severity, and without confirmation of imaging results, his status remains uncertain. 

If no fracture is involved, there is optimism he could suit up as early as Week 16.

Harvey has been a key piece of Denver’s offense, rushing for 65 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries against Green Bay before exiting. 

His reliability and balanced approach have earned trust from Sean Payton, making him difficult to replace in a meaningful game. 

If Harvey is unable to play, Jaleel McLaughlin would likely see the largest bump in usage, with Tyler Badie mixing in on passing downs. 

Neither RB profiles as a true workhorse, and the Broncos would likely use a committee approach.  

Schrader’s role would likely be limited early as he gets used to the system. 

Fantasy managers should pay close attention to Harvey’s practice designations as the week progresses. 

Missed sessions would be a red flag, while a limited or a return to full practice would signal optimism.  

Given Denver’s playoff positioning and the importance of Sunday’s matchup, there’s reason to believe Harvey will push to play if physically able. 

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