Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos

In a season where the Denver Broncos have leaned on both veteran stars and emerging talent to fuel their playoff push, undrafted rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant has quietly emerged as one of the team’s most pleasant surprises. Initially signed to the practice squad in training camp, Bryant earned a spot on the active roster in Week 4 and has since carved out a role as a reliable depth piece—one who’s shown flashes of elite potential that could make him a key part of the Broncos’ offense for years to come. From clutch third-down catches to explosive deep receptions, Bryant has proven he can contribute in high-pressure situations, defying the odds for an undrafted player in a crowded wide receiver room. For the Broncos, who’ve sought consistent depth behind starters Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton, Bryant’s emergence isn’t just a short-term boost—it’s a sign of untapped upside that could reshape their passing attack. Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is a story of perseverance, as a player overlooked by NFL teams has turned every opportunity into a chance to shine.

Bryant’s on-field contributions, though not yet eye-popping in volume, have been impactful in key moments—highlighting his ability to step up when the Broncos need him most. Through 11 weeks, he’s hauled in 18 receptions for 278 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 15.4 yards per catch—a mark that ranks second among Broncos wide receivers (behind only Jeudy’s 16.2). What stands out most is his efficiency on third downs: Bryant has converted 7 of his 9 third-down targets into first downs, a 77.8% success rate that’s the highest on the team. His most memorable performance came in Week 8 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he caught 4 passes for 89 yards, including a 35-yard deep ball from Bo Nix that set up the Broncos’ game-winning field goal. Bryant’s speed (he ran a 4.43 40-yard dash at his pro day) and route-running precision have made him a reliable option for Nix, especially on deep routes and quick slants. Unlike many rookies, he’s also avoided costly mistakes—he’s yet to drop a pass or commit a penalty this season. For an undrafted player, this level of consistency and impact is rare, and it’s why Broncos coaches have continued to increase his snap count (from 12% in Week 4 to 38% in Week 11). Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is evident in these small but meaningful contributions, which have helped the Broncos win three games by a margin of 3 points or less.

Another key indicator of Bryant’s upside is his adaptability to the Broncos’ offensive scheme, which requires wide receivers to play multiple roles and adjust to varying game plans. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s system emphasizes both short, high-percentage passes (to move the chains) and deep shots (to stretch the defense)—and Bryant has excelled in both areas. He’s equally comfortable running a 5-yard quick out to convert a third-and-4 as he is tracking a 40-yard fade route down the sideline, a versatility that makes him a valuable weapon for Nix. Bryant has also proven he can contribute on special teams, returning 5 punts for 42 yards and playing 15% of the Broncos’ special teams snaps—another sign of his willingness to do whatever it takes to stay on the field. Coaches have praised his football IQ, noting that he picks up new plays faster than most rookies and rarely makes mental errors. In a Week 10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Bryant lined up at three different positions (slot receiver, outside receiver, and even a short-yardage tight end) and caught passes from each spot, showing he can fit wherever the Broncos need him. This adaptability is critical for a team that often adjusts its game plan based on opponents, and it’s a trait that suggests Bryant can grow into a more prominent role. Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is seen in his ability to thrive in a scheme that demands flexibility and football smarts.

The Denver Broncos’ decision to give Bryant more opportunities has not only paid off in the short term but also aligned with their long-term strategy of building a sustainable wide receiver room. For years, the Broncos have relied heavily on Jeudy and Sutton, but injuries and inconsistent depth have left them vulnerable in the past—most notably in 2024, when a knee injury to Jeudy forced the team to start unproven backups and led to a three-game losing streak. By developing Bryant, the Denver Broncos are creating insurance for the future, ensuring they won’t be caught off guard if a starter goes down. Bryant’s emergence also gives the Broncos leverage in contract negotiations: Jeudy is set to become a free agent in 2026, and if Bryant continues to develop, the team won’t feel pressured to overpay to keep Jeudy. Additionally, Bryant’s low cost (he’s earning the league minimum for a rookie) fits with the Broncos’ salary-cap strategy, allowing them to allocate funds to other positions like offensive line or defense. The Denver Broncos’ player development staff, which has a history of nurturing undrafted talent (like running back Phillip Lindsay), deserves credit for identifying Bryant’s potential and giving him a chance. Their faith in him has not only strengthened the team this season but also set them up for success in the years ahead. Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is a testament to the team’s ability to find and develop hidden gems.

Bryant’s growth trajectory has also been accelerated by the mentorship he’s received from the Denver Broncos’ veteran wide receivers, who’ve helped him refine his skills and adjust to the NFL’s speed. Jeudy, in particular, has taken Bryant under his wing, spending extra time with him after practice to work on route running and film study. “Pat has a lot of raw talent, but he just needed someone to show him the little things—like how to read a cornerback’s hips or adjust a route based on coverage,” Jeudy said in a recent interview. “He’s a fast learner, and he works harder than anyone I’ve seen.” Sutton has also helped Bryant with the mental side of the game, teaching him how to prepare for opponents and stay focused during long games. This veteran guidance has been invaluable for Bryant, who admits he “would have been lost” early in the season without it. The Denver Broncos’ locker room culture, which prioritizes teamwork and mentorship, has created the perfect environment for Bryant to grow. In Week 9, after Bryant made a clutch third-down catch, Jeudy was the first player to celebrate with him on the sideline—a moment that symbolized the team’s support for their young receiver. This culture of support has not only helped Bryant develop faster but also made him a more confident player, which is evident in his performance on the field. Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is enhanced by the veteran leadership that’s helping him reach his potential.

Looking ahead, the Denver Broncos have a unique opportunity to capitalize on Bryant’s upside, as he’s poised to take on a larger role in the offense in the coming weeks and seasons. With the Broncos set to face defenses that focus heavily on stopping Jeudy and Sutton (like the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers), Bryant could see more targets as a secondary option. If he continues to produce—especially on deep routes and third downs—he could become a regular part of the Broncos’ game plan, not just a depth piece. Long-term, Bryant has the potential to be a starter-level receiver in the NFL, with the speed to stretch defenses and the hands to make tough catches. For the Denver Broncos, who’ve struggled to find consistent third receivers in recent years, Bryant’s development could be a game-changer. Even if he doesn’t become a star, his ability to contribute in multiple roles and provide depth will make him a valuable asset. As Bryant himself puts it, “I’m just trying to take it one week at a time, but I want to be here for the long haul. The Broncos gave me a chance when no one else would, and I want to pay that back.” Pat Bryant Shows Upside for the Denver Broncos is more than just a feel-good story—it’s a reminder that talent can come from unexpected places, and that with the right opportunity and support, undrafted players can become key contributors to a playoff-caliber team.