Sean Payton Sends Bold Message About RJ Harvey’s Ceiling
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RJ Harvey #12 of the Denver Broncos scores a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton didn’t hold back when asked about rookie running back RJ Harvey this week.
He delivered one of his strongest public endorsements yet.
Speaking to reporters, Payton smiled and said:
“There’s that saying, ‘You haven’t seen anything yet,’” before adding that Harvey possesses a “rare running skillset.”
That is a bold statement coming from a coach known for elevating running backs and it lands at a time when Harvey is emerging as the Broncos’ unquestioned RB1.
With J.K. Dobbins out for the season, Harvey has stepped into a featured role and steadily climbed the fantasy and real-football ranks.
He enters Week 14 as one of the hottest ascending backs in the league.
Harvey’s Rise Since J.K. Dobbins Went Down
When Dobbins suffered a season-ending foot injury, the Broncos needed someone to stabilize the backfield.
Harvey has done just that.
Since taking over as the lead back, Harvey has dominated playing time in consecutive weeks and delivered his best statistical stretch of the season.
He played 61% of snaps in Week 11 and 47% in Week 13 after he only averaged 29% of snaps through the first 10 weeks.
Through Week 13, Harvey has totaled eight touchdowns, tied for the most among all rookie running backs despite his limited early-season snaps.
His consistency in high-leverage moments has cemented him as Denver’s go-to option.
Last week against the Washington Commanders, Harvey touched the ball 16 times for 62 yards and scored two touchdowns, including the overtime game-winner.
He posted 21.2 PPR fantasy points, earning Start of the Week honors.
He has become a great fantasy football option because of his pass catching and ability to keep finding the end zone.
The Broncos now face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.
This is a defense that has allowed four running backs in the last two weeks to score at least 11.4 PPR points with five total touchdowns
Harvey finds himself in another favorable spot.
Why Sean Payton Believes Harvey Can Be Even Better
Payton’s comments this week hint at a belief that Harvey isn’t close to his ceiling yet.
Calling a rookie’s skillset “rare” is extremely noteworthy
Especially coming from a coach who has built top-tier offenses around dynamic backs that date back to Alvin Kamara, Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush.
Payton’s “you haven’t seen anything yet” remark suggests he sees room for further growth as Harvey gains experience, comfort, and confidence within the Broncos’ scheme.
Harvey’s vision, balance, and pass-catching ability already make him a natural fit for Payton’s offense.
His lack of big rushing games is an area the Broncos think will progress as the offense continues to evolve.
He has yet to surpass 58 yards on the ground but has made up for it through the air and by getting into the end zone.
With Payton offering such strong public praise, the message is clear: Denver believes Harvey can transition from productive rookie to a future star.
THE END OF AN ERA? Ben Roethlisberger Sparks Rumors of Mike Tomlin’s Move to Penn State as Steelers' Future Hangs in the Balance!
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ future is suddenly uncertain after former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger suggested that head coach Mike Tomlin could be headed for a major college football role — potentially at Penn State. The comments, made during Roethlisberger’s podcast, have sent shockwaves through Steelers Nation, igniting speculation about the future of one of the most successful head coaches in NFL history. With Tomlin’s tenure with the Steelers already under scrutiny and Pittsburgh’s playoff aspirations hanging by a thread, could this be the end of an era?
Roethlisberger, who played his entire career under Tomlin, offered a candid take on the direction of the Steelers in light of their struggles. “Maybe it’s a clean-house time,” Roethlisberger said. “I like Coach Tomlin. I have a lot of respect for him. But maybe it’s best for him too. Maybe a fresh start for him is what’s best. Whether that’s in the pros, or maybe go be Penn State’s head coach.” The suggestion has set off a firestorm of speculation, with fans and analysts alike wondering whether Tomlin, who has been with the Steelers since 2007, might be ready to step away from the NFL to take on a new challenge.
Mike Tomlin has been the face of the Steelers for over 16 years, leading the team to two Super Bowl appearances and one championship, while maintaining one of the most consistent records in the NFL. However, in recent seasons, Pittsburgh’s performance has taken a noticeable dip. With questions swirling around the Steelers' ability to compete at the highest level, and Tomlin’s future with the team in doubt, Roethlisberger’s comments only add fuel to the fire.
For many, Tomlin’s legacy with the Steelers has been built on the foundation of consistency and leadership. But in a world where NFL teams are more likely to move on from coaches who fail to deliver consistent success, even the most established leaders are no longer immune to change. If Tomlin were to leave the Steelers, it would mark the end of an era and raise serious questions about the team’s future direction.
As for Roethlisberger’s comments about Tomlin possibly taking over at Penn State, it’s a compelling idea. Tomlin has deep ties to college football, having coached at the University of Memphis early in his career. With Penn State’s football program continuing to grow in prominence, the move could offer Tomlin a fresh start and the chance to build a new legacy. The idea of Tomlin returning to college football, where he could recruit, develop young talent, and build a dynasty, is certainly intriguing.
For now, Steelers fans are left to wonder: will Tomlin remain in Pittsburgh to continue his Hall of Fame‑worthy career, or will a new chapter in his coaching journey begin at Penn State? As the season unfolds, the clock is ticking, and the future of the Steelers hangs in the balance.
