Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has been closely evaluating his players throughout the preseason, and one rookie wide receiver has caught his eye: Pat Bryant. In the Broncos’ second preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals, Bryant’s performance stood out, leading the team in receiving yards. Payton’s comments after the game highlighted Bryant’s growing role and potential impact on the team’s offense.
Bryant’s journey to the NFL has been marked by dedication and a willingness to contribute in any way possible. His blocking ability, combined with his receiving skills, has made him a valuable asset to the Broncos. As the team prepares for the regular season, Bryant’s performance in the preseason games has positioned him as a player to watch.
This article explores Sean Payton’s assessment of Pat Bryant’s performance, the importance of Bryant’s blocking skills, and the overall implications for the Broncos’ wide receiver competition.
Bryant’s Impact Against the Cardinals
In the Broncos’ second preseason game, Pat Bryant was a focal point of the offensive strategy. Targeted five times, he hauled in four receptions for a team-high 70 yards. This performance was a significant step up from the first preseason game, where he had limited opportunities. Sean Payton specifically wanted to get Bryant more involved, and the rookie receiver delivered.
“I thought it was good. It was good to get him the ball,” Payton said. “One of the goals I think having gone through [preseason] Week 1 was, ‘All right, let’s make sure we get Evan ‘X’ number of touches. Let’s make sure Pat gets…’ Just outlining some players, maybe that for whatever reason in the first game [didn’t get as many touches].”
Payton’s strategy to increase Bryant’s involvement paid dividends, showcasing the receiver’s potential to contribute significantly to the Broncos’ offense. This performance not only boosted Bryant’s confidence but also provided the coaching staff with valuable insights into his capabilities.
The Cardinals game served as a platform for Bryant to demonstrate his skills and versatility. His ability to create separation, make contested catches, and contribute after the catch was evident throughout the game, solidifying his case for a prominent role in the Broncos’ offense.
The “No Block, No Rock” Philosophy
One of the defining aspects of Pat Bryant’s game is his willingness to block. This “no block, no rock” mentality, as it’s been called, was evident in both preseason games. Although one instance resulted in a penalty that negated a significant gain for running back Jaleel McLaughlin, Bryant’s effort and commitment to blocking have not gone unnoticed.
Sean Payton has emphasized the importance of having receivers who are willing to contribute in the running game. Bryant’s blocking ability adds another dimension to his game, making him a more complete and valuable player. This unselfishness and willingness to do the dirty work set him apart from some other receivers.
“He is an unselfish player,” Payton said of Bryant. “There are certain stature receivers, maybe, that are going to be further away from the ball, but we’ve always favored a bigger receiver. They’re more durable. It’s not to say that we don’t have players that maybe aren’t as big, but certainly if you want to run the football, you have to be able to handle the force with those guys. You just have to.”
Bryant’s dedication to blocking not only showcases his versatility but also aligns with Payton’s vision of a well-rounded and physical offense. This aspect of his game is likely to earn him more playing time and opportunities as the season progresses.
The Wide Receiver Landscape
The Broncos’ wide receiver competition has been a significant storyline throughout the summer. With several young players vying for a role alongside established veterans, the preseason games have been crucial for players to showcase their abilities. Bryant has emerged as a standout performer, consistently making plays and demonstrating his potential.
While Troy Franklin has also impressed with his touchdown-scoring ability, Bryant’s overall consistency and willingness to block have set him apart. As the media and fans speculate about the depth chart, Payton has downplayed the significance of specific rankings, emphasizing that every player who dresses on gameday will have a role.
The Broncos rested several key players, including Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr., in the Cardinals game, signaling that they are likely to be starters. However, the remaining spots are up for grabs, and Bryant has positioned himself favorably with his strong preseason performances.
The Michael Thomas Comparison
Sean Payton has drawn comparisons between Pat Bryant and former New Orleans Saints Pro Bowler Michael Thomas, known for his exceptional route running and ability to make tough catches. This comparison speaks volumes about Payton’s belief in Bryant’s potential and his fit within the Broncos’ offensive scheme.
Thomas, also known as the ‘Slant God,’ was a key component of Payton’s offense in New Orleans. If Bryant can emulate Thomas’s skillset and work ethic, he has the potential to become a valuable weapon for the Broncos.
While it’s still early in Bryant’s career, the comparison to Michael Thomas highlights the coaching staff’s optimism and the potential for Bryant to develop into a significant contributor. This comparison also places a certain level of expectation on Bryant, pushing him to continue improving and refining his game.
Key Takeaways
Pat Bryant’s performance in the preseason games has solidified his case for a significant role in the Broncos’ offense. His ability to make catches, contribute as a blocker, and align with Sean Payton’s offensive vision make him a valuable asset to the team.
As the Broncos prepare for the regular season, Bryant’s versatility and willingness to contribute in any way possible will make it difficult for the coaching staff to keep him off the field. Whether he’s lining up as a receiver or contributing as a blocker, Bryant’s impact is likely to be felt throughout the season.
Ultimately, Bryant’s success will depend on his continued development and his ability to translate his preseason performance into regular-season production. However, his strong start and the confidence shown in him by Sean Payton indicate that he has a bright future with the Denver Broncos.
Leave a Reply