Broncos Add Firepower: Denver Selects Illinois WR Pat Bryant with 74th Pick in 2025 NFL Draft

April 26, 2025 | Broncos HQ, Englewood, CO

The Denver Broncos continued to reshape and reinforce their offense during Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting wide receiver Pat Bryant from the University of Illinois with the 74th overall pick in the third round. The move marks the second offensive skill position player taken by Denver on Friday, as they double down on giving rookie quarterback Bo Nix a full arsenal of weapons for his inaugural season.

Bryant, a second-team All-Big Ten selection in 2024, arrives in Denver as one of college football’s most reliable and explosive deep threats. He recorded 54 receptions for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns during his senior campaign, averaging over 18 yards per catch. His ability to stretch the field, win contested catches, and deliver in high-pressure moments made him a standout target during his time with the Fighting Illini.

“That’s how I am as a receiver,” Bryant said shortly after his selection. “My main focus is when the ball’s in the air, it’s mine, and I’m better than the man that’s in front of me.”

Those aren’t just words — Bryant’s numbers support the confidence. According to advanced metrics, nearly 78 percent of his receptions in 2024 resulted in either a touchdown or a first down, a remarkable efficiency rate that speaks to his value as a chain-mover and red zone threat.

A Proven Performer in Big Moments

Pat Bryant didn’t just produce in bulk; he delivered when it mattered most. The senior wideout caught three game-winning touchdowns during the 2024 season, including two in the final two minutes of regulation and one in overtime. His clutch performances helped Illinois maintain bowl eligibility and solidified his reputation as a receiver with a fearless, winning mentality.

“He’s the kind of guy who wants the ball when the game’s on the line,” said Illinois head coach Bret Bielema. “Pat was our go-to guy in the biggest moments. He doesn’t shy away from pressure — he welcomes it.”

That mentality aligns well with the culture that new head coach Sean Payton is instilling in Denver. With a young quarterback and a retooled offensive playbook, Payton and GM George Paton are building a receiver corps that blends veteran presence with emerging talent — and Bryant is expected to play a key role immediately.

A Wide Receiver Room Full of Competition and Opportunity

The Broncos’ current wide receiver depth chart is one of the more intriguing units on the roster. Established veteran Courtland Sutton remains the alpha presence, while second-year burner Marvin Mims Jr. looks to build on a promising rookie year. The addition of 2025 second-round pick Troy Franklin reunited with Bo Nix adds further dynamism, while names like Devaughn Vele, Trent Sherfield, A.T. Perry, and Michael Bandy round out a diverse and competitive group.

Pat Bryant now enters that mix with a real opportunity to earn reps early in his rookie season.

“We’re going to let these guys compete and find their niche in the offense,” Payton said Friday evening. “Pat brings toughness, length, and a knack for making plays downfield. He’s someone who could contribute right away.”

At 6-foot-3 and 205 pounds, Bryant combines ideal size with smooth route-running and soft hands — he had just one drop in 78 targets during his senior season. That reliability is invaluable for a young quarterback like Bo Nix, who will lean heavily on trust and timing as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of the NFL.

“Just having an opportunity to play with a great quarterback like Bo Nix — it will be very, very special,” Bryant said, smiling when asked about his future QB. “I’ve seen a lot of great things from him.”

From Champaign to Mile High: Bryant’s Path to the NFL

Bryant’s rise through the college ranks was defined by consistency and growth. Over the course of his four-year career at Illinois, he amassed 137 receptions for 2,095 yards and 19 touchdowns, improving his production each year. He recorded at least 34 catches and 450 yards in three consecutive seasons — a testament to his durability and versatility in a variety of offensive schemes.

Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Bryant was lightly recruited out of high school but quickly made a name for himself in the Big Ten. Coaches praised his work ethic, competitive spirit, and commitment to honing his craft, especially in the offseason.

“He was always the first one in the film room, always studying corners, looking for an edge,” said former Illinois wide receivers coach George McDonald. “He’s a technician. He knows the details matter.”

A Big-Picture Draft Strategy Takes Shape

Bryant’s selection followed the Broncos’ earlier third-round pick of running back RJ Harvey, a speedy back out of UCF who offers both rushing and receiving capabilities. The night before, Denver used their first-round pick (12th overall) to take cornerback Jahdae Barron from Texas, addressing a need in the secondary.

In three rounds, the Broncos addressed three distinct areas of need — defense, ground game, and downfield passing — while surrounding Bo Nix with playmakers. With their quarterback of the future in place, Denver’s focus on weapons and protection is part of a clear strategic vision.

“We’re going to give Bo the tools he needs to succeed,” GM George Paton said. “That means playmakers, sure hands, and explosive potential. Pat Bryant checks all those boxes.”

Fans React: Optimism Reignites in Broncos Country

The excitement in Broncos Country has been palpable as the draft unfolded. While early skepticism surrounded the team’s commitment to developing a young quarterback, Denver’s recent moves — particularly the offensive focus in rounds two and three — have rekindled hope.

Social media was buzzing after Bryant’s selection, with many fans praising his highlight-reel catches and physical playing style. Some even drew comparisons to former Broncos receiver Eric Decker, while others noted his resemblance to current stars like Tee Higgins.

“This draft has been fire,” one fan posted on X. “Bo Nix, Troy Franklin, now Pat Bryant and RJ Harvey? Sean Payton building an offense for the future!”

What Comes Next

With Day 3 of the NFL Draft still ahead, the Broncos are expected to continue adding depth across the roster. Positions of interest include offensive line, linebacker, and tight end — but don’t be surprised if another skill player sneaks into the mix.

As for Bryant, he’ll soon report to Denver for rookie minicamp, where he’ll begin learning the Broncos’ offense and establishing chemistry with Bo Nix and the rest of the team. His focus? The same as always.

“Earn every rep. Win every matchup. Make every play count,” he said. “That’s what got me here, and that’s what I’ll keep doing.”

And if his college production, attitude, and explosiveness are any indication, Broncos fans may have plenty to cheer about when No. 11 (his expected jersey number) takes the field at Empower Field at Mile High this fall.