Justin Joly's fit with Broncos explained in exciting way by ESPN

Justin Joly's fit with Broncos explained in exciting way by ESPN originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Denver Broncos may not have known the name Justin Joly before the 2026 NFL Draft.

Now, though, he's a guy that they probably should start getting excited about.

Joly was just a fifth-round pick out of North Carolina State, but the athletic tight end has a chance to make an impact early and often.

ESPN's Field Yates included Joly on his list of Day 2-3 draft picks who can make an "instant impact." Given that Denver is an AFC contender, having a young player contribute immediately would certainly be a plus.

"Sean Payton-coached teams have long emphasized having a 'Joker' -- a running back or tight end who creates mismatches in the passing game," Yates writes. "The Broncos signed Evan Engram last offseason to fill that role, but his numbers (50 catches, 461 yards, one touchdown) were modest. Joly is a nimble, talented pass catcher who specializes in making catches outside his strike zone. He averaged more than 6.0 yards after the catch per reception his first three college seasons and didn't have a drop in 2025."