ENGLEWOOD — Things moved fast for RJ Harvey to begin his rookie NFL season.

The Broncos’ second-round draft pick assumed the No. 2 running back role behind J.K. Dobbins out of training camp. Harvey said he’s improved in “pretty much everything” now entering Week 11 against the Chiefs at Empower Field.

“The game has slowed down a lot for me,” Harvey said after practice on Friday at Broncos Park. “When I first got here, things were moving quick … I definitely feel more comfortable.”

Harvey will need that comfort on Sunday as the presumed lead running back.

The Broncos ruled out Dobbins against Kansas City with a foot injury on Friday after he missed all three practices this week. The Broncos are considering placing Dobbins on injured reserve on Saturday, as The Denver Gazette previously reported. It puts Harvey in a position for increased opportunity.

“I’m ready,” Harvey said. “Whatever coach needs me to do. … I had a great week of practice.”

The Central Florida product enters the critical AFC West matchup with 50 carries for 214 yards and two rushing touchdowns this season. He’s been a passing-game threat, too, with 25 catches for 175 yards and four touchdowns. Harvey also prioritized improvement in pass protection.

“I’ve definitely gotten better with the recognition. You’ve got to have your eyes right. Pass protection is big for running backs,” Harvey said. “You’ve got to know who to block, and you’ve got to be able to protect the quarterback. I understand that and I’ll be fine on Sunday.”

Harvey expressed gratitude for the mentorship of Dobbins and others in the Broncos’ running backs room. He’s played 29% of the team’s overall snaps on offense, with teammates gushing about his potential. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton said Harvey’s nickname is ‘ATH’ for athlete — with a versatile skillset at 5-foot-8 and 205 pounds.

Things are slowing down for ATH right when the Broncos need him most.

“It helps me focus more and have more confidence,” Harvey said. “Just feeling more comfortable and confident in myself with all the calls.”

KAD steps up

Cornerback Pat Surtain will miss a third consecutive game with a left pectoral strain. The strong play of his starting replacement, Kris Abrams-Draine, has allowed the Broncos to maintain their place among the NFL’s top defenses.

Last week, in a home win over the Raiders, Abrams-Draine allowed just one reception for 19 yards on two targets. He also logged seven tackles in a road victory over the Texans. The Broncos drafted Abrams-Draine with a fifth-round pick in 2024 out of Missouri.

“I think it’s just a testament to me working hard,” Abrams-Draine told The Denver Gazette on Friday. “Every week, not knowing if I’m going to play, but just preparing the right way.”

Briefly

Coach Sean Payton is aware of the illness Quinn Meinerz has struggled to overcome this season. Payton said: “Yes, we’re on top of all of our players. He’s doing great.” … Running back Jaleel McLaughlin is expected to also help fill the production gap from Dobbins’ injury. McLaughlin has appeared in just one game while being a healthy scratch for most of the season. Payton said: “He’s ready. It would be difficult to play for two seasons and then be inactive. He’s one of those guys. He’s the first in the building.” … The Chiefs ruled out injured running back Isiah Pacheco (knee) on Sunday against the Broncos.