UCF’s RJ Harvey has quietly positioned himself as a top-10 running back prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, thanks to elite production, breakaway speed, and high-end versatility. Despite being labeled an undersized back, Harvey’s film and Senior Bowl performance have silenced concerns about his ability to handle an NFL workload.
Explosive Production & Playmaking Ability
Harvey dominated the Big 12 as a full-time starter for two seasons, recording:
Back-to-back 1,400+ rushing yard seasons
43 total touchdowns (38 rushing, 5 receiving)
720 career receiving yards
Two seasons with over 225 carries
He thrives as a big-play threat, often just one block or jump cut away from taking it to the house. His ability to make defenders miss while maintaining balance through contact sets him apart from other backs in this class.
What Makes Harvey Special?
Elite Contact Balance & Agility – His ability to bounce off tacklers and reset his footing after contact makes him an elusive runner.
Acceleration & Burst – Harvey’s quick-twitch ability allows him to hit the second level and create chunk plays with ease.
Reliable Ball Security – With limited career fumbles, Harvey proves he can be trusted in key situations.
Receiving Upside – Soft hands and a developing route tree make him a viable dual-threat option out of the backfield.
Areas of Concern
Size & Durability Questions – At 5’9, some scouts wonder if he can be a three-down workhorse at the next level.
Pass Protection Against Bigger Defenders – Larger pass rushers can overpower him, so he must refine his blocking technique.
Needs More Route Versatility – While he has proven hands, adding more variety to his route running would increase his value as a third-down weapon.
Final Thoughts
While size will always be a talking point, RJ Harvey has proven to handle a heavy workload, create explosive plays, and contribute in the passing game. His blend of agility, balance, and breakaway speed gives him a high ceiling, and in the right system, he could outperform his draft position.
Harvey might not be the biggest back in this class, but he’s certainly one of the most dynamic—and that’s something NFL teams will covet.
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