Pundits absolutely roasted the Denver Broncos for snatching Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, calling the pick several rounds too high. Broncos Country fans were legit fuming, hoping the team would grab other talent earlier. But the Broncos didn’t even flinch.
From Criticized Pick to Clutch Performer
The Broncos saw their guy, a perfect fit for their scheme, with the size and traits Head Coach Sean Payton straight up covets at the position. For them, Bryant was a no-brainer decision. And you know what? He backed it up. As a rookie, Bryant played in fifteen games, starting seven, and hauled in 31 receptions for 378 yards and one touchdown. He was a beast over the middle, snagging tough, contested catches that had you screaming at the TV. This dude was clutch for moving the chains and a fixture in Denver’s 11 personnel groupings. His run-blocking prowess even fueled Denver’s early season rushing success with J.K. Dobbins. Talk about making a statement!
Payton’s Vision Comes Into Focus
After practice yesterday, Payton was asked if Bryant’s camp performance was a surprise. His answer? A firm, “No.” Payton said, “I’m excited, I’m happy because you kind of saw the beginning of it last year, but like any young player, maybe you didn’t see it as consistently as you’re seeing now. He’s a confident player with strong hands. That ability to be on the ground and not alter your feet or your foot path, I think really serves him well.” Remember, Bryant was the tenth wide receiver taken in his class, but he straight up outplayed first-round pick Matthew Golden and second-round wide receiver Tre Harris. He even ranked seventh in receptions and receiving yards overall among his draft class. That’s a serious start, especially with all the rotation in the Broncos’ wide receiver room last season.
This season, Bryant is gunning to increase his target share, even with Jaylen Waddle joining a crowded wide receiver room. The initial depth chart has him listed as a second-team player, backing up longtime veteran Courtland Sutton at the ‘X’ position. But Payton isn’t playing around. He appeared on the Up & Adams show and flat out said it will be hard to keep Bryant off the field. The coaching staff has watched his growth first-hand, and with Bryant flashing daily in camp, Payton’s vision from when they made him the 74th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft is finally coming into focus. “We felt size, strong hands. He had…” and you just know what he was thinking. This dude is about to pop off.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
Leave a Reply