Coach Sean Payton straight up told the media after Broncos practice on Wednesday that rookie running back Jonah Coleman has been a “pleasant surprise” in training camp. When a coach like Payton calls out a rookie like that, you know it’s a huge deal. He literally said, “you don’t feel a rookie with (running back) Jonah (Coleman). He’s playing.” That’s not just a compliment, that’s a statement about real, immediate impact!
Rookie Runner Taking Charge
Payton’s praise for Coleman is a massive positive sign, no doubt. The Broncos picked Coleman out of Washington in the fourth round, and that pick was celebrated. The dude brings a whole new running style and set of abilities to that running back room. Payton noted it’s been harder to evaluate some of the linemen without pads, and mentioned seeing some young linebackers moving around and making calls, calling that “good.” But when it came to a pleasant surprise, Coleman was the first name Payton dropped. He’s already showing he can key and diagnose, which is huge for a young player.
Pat Bryant is Balling Out, Too
But the good vibes from Payton didn’t stop with Coleman. He was also asked about second-year receiver Pat Bryant and where he’s grown the most since last year. Payton was “really pleased” with Bryant, calling him “one of those congested ball catchers” who keeps his feet on the ground. That means serious run-after-the-catch ability! Payton pointed out you don’t see Bryant skipping or jumping when he makes a grab, showing real confidence in catching the ball correctly. He even brought up Bryant’s college days at Illinois, where he had three walk-off touchdowns in his final year, literally catching the ball in full stride on the last play. If you’re breaking stride to catch, you lose that critical split second, but Bryant avoids that. Payton was clear: “He’s extremely smart. He’s doing really well.”
We all know which players are supposed to be the big names for the Broncos this season, but seeing these younger guys like Coleman and Bryant shine in training camp? That’s what elevates the whole team. What’s next for these guys? They keep grinding in camp, proving they’re not just flashes in the pan. We’ll be watching to see if they keep this momentum heading into the pre-season games.
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.
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