When the Denver Broncos picked Pat Bryant in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, they got a dog.
Bryant had one drop last season for the Illini, and somehow, he was only looked at as a third-rounder. That is what blew my mind. Denver saw the potential in him, and they risked a draft pick on the Illinois great.
Throughout the first two preseason games, Bryant has impressed. He has amassed six receptions for 91 yards, which includes a team-high four receptions for 70 yards in the last game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Since then, there has been nothing but praise for Bryant. Head coach Sean Payton has been quoted as saying that Bryant is unselfish, and that is a big deal, especially when you are a rookie.
The momentum is there for Bryant, and it hit its pinnacle on Wednesday evening. According to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football, the New Orleans Saints traded for Denver wide receiver Devaughn Vele.
The Saints are trading for Denver WR Devaughn Vele, according to a source
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) August 20, 2025
Why is this a big deal for Bryant? Vele was ahead of him on the depth chart. I would argue, this is the biggest vote of confidence that Denver could show Bryant right now.
With the dust settling, Pat Bryant looks to be in for a big role with the Denver Broncos
Things are starting to calm down, and the Denver depth chart is taking shape. Marvin Mims Jr. and Courtland Sutton are locked starters.
Troy Franklin has had a great camp and preseason. ESPN projects him to be the third starter on the roster.
When you get to the second string, you find experienced wideout Trent Sherfield Sr. In that mix is also Bryant, who is slotted right behind Sutton.
Honestly, Denver needed to depart with a wide receiver. There was too much young talent on the depth chart. This will enable Bryant to see a snap increase from day one.
Bryant is going to get snaps in the first game of the season. He is going to be someone who plays a key role in the Broncos’ offense. I fully expect his output in 2025 to be something like 20 receptions for 375 yards and three touchdowns.