Denver Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton just dropped two names who he thinks are about to go OFF for the 2026 season, and honestly, fans should be hyped. With their initial 53-man roster now set and two weeks to go before the regular season kicks off, Payton isn’t shy about who he expects to step up and push this team toward their Super Bowl aspirations. The Broncos are banking on continuity this year, with very few outside additions, except for the massive trade that brought wide receiver Jaylen Waddle onboard last Spring to boost Bo Nix’s aerial attack. But for that fourth Lombardi Trophy dream to become reality, young talent has to develop, and Payton pointed directly at two players after practice yesterday.
“Enyi” Is Ready to Wreak Havoc Up Front
When asked about breakout candidates, Payton immediately named defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike. This dude is entering his fourth year with the team, and it’s go time. With Jonathan Franklin-Myers heading to the Titans, Uwazurike is now first in line for a huge increase in reps. This former Iowa State standout has the size, the physicality, and the versatility to play all across that defensive front, which is exactly what Denver needs. Last season, Uwazurike had his best year yet, absolutely dominating against the run and even flashing some serious pass-rushing skills. Payton himself said, “’Enyi’ has played really well.” If he takes that next leap, opposing offensive lines are going to be in for a rough day trying to combat the tenacity and versatility of the Broncos’ trench players. We’re talking pure chaos in the backfield if he lives up to this.
Pat Bryant Is “The Complete Package” and Ready to Explode
On the offensive side, the other name Payton couldn’t stop talking about was wide receiver Pat Bryant. The guy has been turning heads consistently with his playmaking ability, and Payton has been praising his huge jump from Year 1 to Year 2. Payton even told Kay Adams that it’s going to be “hard time” keeping Bryant off the field this season. And it’s not just the head coach gushing, either. Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph called Bryant “the complete package” back in August. Even safety Talanoa Hufanga chimed in yesterday, calling Bryant “definitely the most improved player on the roster this offseason.” When your top coaches and even teammates are all this bullish on a player’s upside and potential, you know something big is brewing. Payton kept it simple but powerful: “Pat has played really well.”
These two are clearly on a mission, and the Broncos will need them locked in for their regular season opener on Monday Night Football against the Kansas City Chiefs. Can they deliver on Payton’s high praise right out of the gate? It’s going to be wild to watch.
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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