Broncos’ Late-Round Rookie Could Be a Game-Changer, Analyst Says
The Denver Broncos may have uncovered a hidden gem in rookie tight end Justin Joly.
Heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, Denver made it clear that upgrading the tight end position was one of its top priorities. The Broncos initially appeared to be in a strong position late in the second round to select one of the remaining top prospects at the position. However, a sudden run on tight ends began just before Denver’s pick, forcing the team to shift gears. Instead, the Broncos traded back into the third round and selected defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim.
Still determined to add a tight end they valued highly, Denver waited patiently until Round 5 before making its move. The Broncos traded up by sending away a sixth-round pick in order to draft former N.C. State standout Justin Joly.
NFL Draft analyst Justin Melo believes the Broncos may have landed one of the biggest steals of the draft. Melo recently included Joly among five fifth-round sleepers capable of dramatically impacting their teams.
Melo compared Joly to Tennessee Titans tight end Chig Okonkwo, another former fifth-round selection who exceeded expectations at the NFL level. According to Melo, Joly’s background as a former wide receiver is evident in his athleticism, route-running ability, and versatility. Though undersized for a traditional tight end, Joly’s compact frame and receiving skills make him a dangerous offensive weapon.
At N.C. State, Joly led the team with 49 catches for 489 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Melo noted that Denver didn’t receive enough production from veteran tight ends Evan Engram and Adam Trautman in 2025, opening the door for Joly to earn playing time early in his rookie season.
Potential Offensive Weapon
This isn’t the first time Melo has praised Denver’s late-round selections. He has also highlighted fourth-round running back Jonah Coleman as another possible steal. If both players develop quickly, the Broncos could suddenly have two young offensive playmakers to support quarterback Bo Nix for years to come.
Although Denver’s talented roster makes it difficult for rookies to immediately secure major roles, Joly may have a legitimate chance to carve out meaningful snaps. Engram struggled to fully justify expectations during his first year in Denver, while Trautman — despite recently signing a three-year extension — has not established himself as a dominant all-around tight end.
That creates an opportunity for Joly, whose athletic profile and work ethic have already impressed observers. If he adapts quickly to Sean Payton’s offense and absorbs coaching during training camp, Denver’s staff could begin designing creative ways to use him throughout the season.
Joly Embracing NFL Coaching
During rookie minicamp earlier this month, Joly emphasized his willingness to learn and do whatever coaches ask of him.
He explained that his main focus is following instructions, studying film, correcting mistakes, and improving every day. That mindset, combined with his versatility, could make him a valuable piece of Denver’s offense right away.
Joly especially projects as a potential red-zone mismatch. Across two seasons at N.C. State, he caught 11 touchdown passes and consistently created problems for defenders because of his size-speed combination. Linebackers often struggled to stay with him in coverage, while defensive backs lacked the physicality to match up against him.
The rookie also made it clear he’s open to lining up anywhere on the field if it helps the team, even joking that he’d play defense if coaches asked.
The Bottom Line
If Joly develops quickly during his rookie year, the Broncos could view him as the long-term successor to the soon-to-be 32-year-old Engram. Analysts like Melo are already bullish on his upside, and many within Broncos Country appear equally optimistic that Denver may have found a major contributor in the fifth round.
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