ESPN says rookie tight end can make ‘instant impact’ with Broncos
ESPN's Field Yates ranked Broncos TE Justin Joly among Day 2/3 draft picks who could make an instant impact in 2026.
The Denver Broncos drafted tight end Justin Joly in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL draft last month. Although the Broncos already have Evan Engram, Joly provides a long-term option and a possible change of pace at the tight end position. With head coach Sean Payton, you never know what’s up his sleeve as an offensive innovator.
Speaking of Payton, ESPN writer Field Yates noted that Joly’s impact within the Broncos offense could depend on the creativity of Payton’s offensive schemes. “Sean Payton-coached teams have long emphasized having a "Joker" -- a running back or tight end who creates mismatches in the passing game. The Broncos signed Evan Engram last offseason to fill that role, but his numbers (50 catches, 461 yards, one touchdown) were modest," Yates wrote for ESPN .
"Joly is a nimble, talented pass catcher who specializes in making catches outside his strike zone. He averaged more than 6 yards after the catch per reception his first three college seasons and didn't have a drop in 2025. ” Can Joly compete and take time and snaps away from Engram?
He had a productive college career, getting nearly 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns between his time at UConn and North Carolina State. While obviously college and pro sports are different calibers of competition, Payton will undoubtedly find ways to utilize Joly on the field this fall. Social : Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X !