Broncos Wire‘s 90-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant, No. 13.
Before the Broncos: Bryant (6-3 ,190 pounds) is a big-build receiver capable of high-pointing a jump ball and coming down with it. Bryant was a four-year player at Illinois, catching 137 passes for 2,095 yards and 19 touchdowns. Bryant had his best season as a senior for the Illini, catching 54 passes for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns. Bryant’s productivity earned him a spot at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, and an invite to the 2025 NFL combine. At the combine, Bryant was slower than expected, running a 4.61-second 40-yard dash, but he posted a high jump of 37.5 inches and a broad jump of 10 feet, four inches.
Broncos tenure: Despite having a lower grade from many pundits, the Broncos selected Bryant in the third round (74th overall) of the 2025 NFL draft. He signed a four-year contract on May 7 worth $6.577 million. After only dropping one pass last fall, Bryant enters the NFL as a sure-handed prospect. He will make his pro debut during preseason this summer.
Chances to make the 53-man roster: Lock. Bryant has already earned rave reviews from head coach Sean Payton, as well as drawing comparisons to Saints legend Michael Thomas. Although he was a little slow at the NFL combine, Bryant shows better game speed on his tape and a high-point ability that will be able to give number one receiver Courtland Sutton a little more breathing room, as well as another big weapon for sophomore quarterback Bo Nix. As a recent draft pick, Bryant is essentially a lock to make the active roster.
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