Rookie RB Coleman to start for Broncos without RJ Harvey

The Denver Broncos will field a revamped running back group when they face the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. Coach Mike McDaniel ruled out RJ Harvey with a knee injury on Friday, leaving rookie Jonah Coleman and veteran J.K. Dobbins as the only two backs on the 53-man roster. Practice squad player Cody Schrader may be elevated to replace Harvey for the matchup.

Coleman, a first-year player, is expected to assume a larger workload in his first game back from an ankle injury. Last week, he ran for 54 yards on nine carries and caught two passes for 15 yards in a half-snap role. His average of six yards per carry marked a return to form after a four-game absence.

The Chiefs present a difficult defensive test. They are tied for the best record in the National Football League and lead the AFC West. Their defense has allowed only two teams to rush for more than 100 yards this season. Coleman acknowledged the quality of the opponent during a locker room interview on Friday.

It is definitely going to feel good to play against the Chiefs, Coleman said. Obviously, they are No. 1 in the division, and that is where we want to be. He added that he is ready for any opportunity and plans to give the team his all whenever he is on the field.

Dobbins, 27, explained that the shift in playing time is part of a strategy to manage health through the regular season and into the postseason. The veteran said he is happy to see both Coleman and Harvey perform well. I am always there to coach my young guys, Dobbins said. I am coaching them to make their plays because I want to see them succeed.

Coleman responded by describing the running back unit as a three-headed monster. He noted that he has spoken positively about Dobbins since the start of the season. He wants to see us succeed, Coleman said. That is what makes our running back room special. Everyone wants to see each other win.

The Broncos will take the field in Kansas City on Sunday. Coleman will look to expand his role further as the team navigates a tough stretch of the schedule. The outcome will determine the trajectory of the Broncos' season in the competitive AFC West.