As the Denver Broncos push through offseason preparations with sights set on a reinvigorated 2025 campaign, a high-stakes competition is brewing behind the scenes. With Courtland Sutton firmly entrenched as the team’s WR1 — and currently holding out for a more lucrative contract — the race for Denver’s No. 2 wide receiver role has officially opened up. And now, one rising prospect has stepped forward, publicly declaring his intention to seize the moment and become an integral piece of the Broncos’ future.
Courtland Sutton’s 2024 season was nothing short of exceptional, racking up a career-best 81 receptions and finishing with 1,081 yards — his second-highest total to date. But Sutton’s absence from offseason activities due to contract negotiations has spotlighted a crucial issue: Denver needs a reliable complement to him in the passing game, and fast.
Enter the contenders: Marvin Mims Jr., Tony Franklin, Pat Bryant, and Devaughn Vele — each bringing a distinct skill set and plenty to prove. Among them, Pat Bryant has begun to separate himself, not just with his on-field performance, but with his off-field conviction. Recently addressing reporters after practice, Bryant made a bold promise:
“I know what this opportunity means — not just for me, but for this team and this city. I’m not here to fill space. I’m here to deliver. I will not let the Broncos down.”
Bryant, who has drawn comparisons to former All-Pro Michael Thomas due to his physicality and route running, may be the under-the-radar talent Denver didn’t know it needed. Though Marvin Mims Jr. and Devaughn Vele both turned in solid 2024 campaigns — posting 503 and 475 receiving yards respectively — Bryant is quickly becoming a fan-favorite breakout candidate, especially with his growing chemistry with second-year quarterback Bo Nix.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. With Sutton’s status uncertain, Nix entering a pivotal sophomore year, and offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi seeking versatility and explosiveness in the passing game, the WR2 role isn’t just a depth chart formality — it’s a foundational pillar in Denver’s long-term strategy.
“A great WR2 changes everything,” Lombardi said. “It shifts defensive coverage, opens the field for our quarterback, and gives us options on every down. We don’t just want a placeholder — we’re looking for a game-changer.”
Denver’s young receivers now have a rare window to prove themselves under the bright lights of NFL scrutiny. With Bryant publicly vowing to step up, and Mims and Vele showing consistent improvement, the Broncos may find themselves not just with a WR2, but with an arsenal capable of revitalizing their offense.
The door has been opened. The question now is: Who walks through it and claims the job — not just for this season, but for years to come?
