The Denver Broncos are shaping their future with a fresh group of draft picks, but few names have sparked as much conversation as Pat Bryant. Selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Bryant’s skill set and physical playing style make him a fascinating addition to the Broncos’ wide receiver room.

Who Is Pat Bryant?

Coming off a standout season at Illinois, Pat Bryant demonstrated why he could be a valuable asset at the pro level. He capped his college career with 54 catches for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. Bryant's reputation for sure hands was further solidified by just one drop on 78 targets last season, a stat that underscores his reliability.

How Pat Bryant Fits the Broncos’ Offense

Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton has a keen eye for receivers, and Bryant’s traits reminded him of former All-Pro Michael Thomas. Payton emphasized, “We try to find comps. There were so many things about his game that reminded me of Mike Thomas.” While Payton made it clear he isn’t projecting Bryant to become an All-Pro overnight, the similarities in physicality, release off the line, and competitiveness are evident. Bryant’s knack for making big plays in crunch time, including several game-winning touchdowns for Illinois, sets a strong precedent for his NFL career.

For an in-depth look at Payton’s evaluation and how Bryant’s college traits may translate to the pro game, visit the official Denver Broncos Notebook.

Strengths and Scheme Fit

The Broncos’ decision to draft Bryant was met with a mix of curiosity and excitement. Some analysts considered the pick a slight reach based on projected draft position, but most agree that Bryant is a classic “scheme fit.” Payton seeks receivers who can battle in traffic, block with intensity, and move the chains in tough moments. Bryant’s physicality, route-running, and willingness to work across the middle of the field align perfectly with what the Broncos want from their possession receivers.

The staff at Mile High Report shared quick reactions, praising Bryant’s "quality contested catch ability" and his high football intelligence. While he may not have game-breaking speed, his consistency and toughness could make him a quarterback’s best friend in critical situations.

The Road Ahead: Depth and Opportunity

With the departure of some veterans and an emerging young core, Bryant comes into Denver with an opportunity to carve out a meaningful role. While early projections place him just outside the top three receiver spots, his ability to win contested balls and contribute as a run-game blocker could see him rotated in frequently—especially in key short-yardage or red-zone situations. Analysis from ESPN's full Broncos 2025 draft breakdown suggests Bryant’s physical profile matches what Sean Payton looks for at the position.

Final Thoughts

Pat Bryant’s selection by the Denver Broncos brings a blend of proven toughness, strong hands, and a relentless competitive edge. While he enters the NFL with room to grow, his college production and mentality suggest he’s ready for the challenge. Denver’s bold choice to draft Bryant underscores their focus on building a physical, reliable receiving corps for the seasons ahead.

Broncos fans, what are your thoughts on the Pat Bryant pick? Head to Mile High Report’s reactions or share your insights on social media as this new chapter begins!