Why Broncos’ RJ Harvey and most second-round picks have not signed contracts | Sports Business Insider
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Sports business insider: The majority of 2025 NFL draft picks who were selected in the second round, including Broncos running back RJ Harvey, are currently unsigned because of contract disputes related to guaranteed money.
Short version: Only two NFL second rounders — Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger (No. 33 overall) and Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins (No. 34 overall) — have signed their rookie deals. The common thread? Both second-round picks, for the first time in league history, received fully guaranteed contracts.
Chargers wide receiver Tre Harris (the 55th overall pick) on Sunday became the first rookie to hold out from training camp. It potentially sets the stage for more second-round holdouts, including Harvey, as training camps open across the NFL.
Long version: Rookies report to Broncos training camp Wednesday. Will Harvey be in attendance?
Denver selected him No. 60 overall from the University of Central Florida as part of a revamped running backs room. Javonte Williams, the team’s leading rusher last season, signed with the Cowboys. The Broncos also landed running back J.K. Dobbins in free agency.
Harvey spoke with reporters in May during rookie minicamp at Broncos Park about his goals.
“Work every day, get better and just prove myself to all the vets and the coaches,” Harvey said. “I want to make an immediate impact in this league.”
Without a contract, however, Harvey is unable to participate in training camp.
The Broncos have not finalized a media viewing schedule at Broncos Park. The first open practice for fans is slated on July 25, three days after veteran players report. It is unclear when the team’s ramp-up period will end before the official start of training camp.
It is also unclear if Harvey will have the leverage for a successful hold out. There were 25 players selected before him in the second round that are still without rookie deals. It will take a significant domino effect for Harvey to be rewarded with a fully guaranteed contract.
The No. 60 overall pick in 2024, Bills safety Cole Bishop, signed a rookie contract valued at $6.5 million with a little more than half guaranteed at $3.46 million (per spotrac.com).
Key context: The Broncos’ first-round pick — defensive back Jahdae Barron (No. 20 overall) — agreed to the terms of his rookie contract on Tuesday night.
Looking ahead: The Broncos and Harvey should be motivated to get a deal signed sooner than later. A possible training camp absence will hamper Harvey’s development if he misses extended practice time. But it appears second-round players are taking a stand to bolster their worth.
Who blinks first: Teams or players?
Stay tuned.