Well, the Denver Broncos have certainly acquiesced to that notion with one of their most powerful roster additions. With that 74th overall pick—their third-round pick—they chose wide receiver Pat Bryant. Bryant measured at the Senior Bowl 6-foot-2 and 204 pounds. His combination of size, physicality and competitive spirit has blown away the coaching staff and energized Legion Field.
Coach Sean Payton has expressed enthusiasm for Bryant’s skill set, which aligns with the Broncos’ needs as they aim to enhance their receiving corps. “His size and his hands are outstanding. He competes,” Payton noted, highlighting Bryant’s ability to excel even under pressure. Regardless of where Bryant lines up, adding him will add an element of nasty to the Broncos’ offensive attack. This improvement is very positive and important to the long-game strategic plan.
At Illinois, Bryant earned the reputation as one of the best pure contested-catch players out there. Last year, he was highly productive – leading the NCAA in yards-per-reception with 18.2. He left his calling card as a consistent receiving threat with 54 catches for 984 yards. He even matched an Illinois record with 10 touchdown receptions. His personal motto, “You block, you get the rock,” is further evidence of his commitment to blocking as well as receiving. This kind of versatility will no doubt serve him well in the NFL.
Bryant’s 4.61 second 40-yard dash time was one of the slowest marks among receivers at this year’s combine. With his aggressive ball hawking playing style, he was a tempting selection for the Broncos. Payton passed on smaller, faster wide-outs in favor of the size and frame that Bryant provides and appreciates. “We always talk about, who does he remind [you of]?” Payton stated, emphasizing the significance of Bryant’s physical attributes in his evaluation process.
His insane work ethic and no nonsense approach to the game have not escaped his peers. Jim Leonhard, the Broncos’ defensive passing game coordinator and assistant head coach, praised Bryant’s determination during his time as a senior football analyst at Illinois. He was simply the type of player who thrived in the clutch. I think he had a walk-off, a couple of these big plays,” Leonhard remarked, pointing to Bryant’s ability to make critical contributions when it mattered most.
As he transitions to the professional league, Bryant will need to improve his route clarity. Furthermore, he could improve his burst through the line of scrimmage. That won’t totally mitigate the lack of straight-line speed common to most NFL cornerbacks, so learn those skills to thrive in the pros. An AFC scout noted, “At the Senior Bowl, you saw him win with his routes against those DBs over and over again.” This type of adaptability will be important as he goes up against his stiffest competition yet in the NFL.
Bryant has proven he can step up, making huge plays even when heavily defended. He acknowledges the importance of performing under pressure, stating, “Those are the catches that I have to make to be successful at this level.” Whether challenges arise on or off the field, his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win shines through.
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