Broncos Rookie’s Preseason Surge Sparks Bold Predictions—Is a Breakout Season Coming?

Ever wonder what it takes for a rookie to not just survive but start to thrive in the brutal preseason grind? Well, Denver Broncos’ third-round pick Pat Bryant might just have cracked the code. After a couple of outings where he’s shown more than just reliable hands—think grit, grit, and yes, a bit of “I don’t mind getting roughed up” kind of heart—Bryant’s confidence is bubbling up like a pitcher hitting his stride. With starters like Sutton and Mims sidelined, he’s seized his moment, connecting smoothly with backup QB Jarrett Stidham and making plays that scream, “I belong here.” It’s only preseason, sure, but if this budding chemistry and Bryant’s willing-to-do-it-all style keep blossoming, Broncos fans might be unwrapping a pretty special surprise as the regular season looms.

The Denver Broncos may have found a gem.

Pat Bryant had a strong second outing against the Arizona Cardinals.

And as reported by Aric DiLalla on X, he’s growing way more confident as the days go by:

“I feel like I’m starting to get back in my groove. The game’s starting to slow down just a little bit. It’s only preseason. I’ve got a long, long season ahead, so I’m looking forward to it,” Bryant said of his confidence level.

Broncos rookie Pat Bryant on his confidence level after a four-catch, 70-yard night:

"I feel like I’m starting to get back in my groove. The game’s starting to slow down just a little bit. It’s only preseason. I’ve got a long, long season ahead, so I’m looking forward to it."

— Aric DiLalla (@AricDiLalla) August 17, 2025

The Broncos took Bryant out of Illinois in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

He had an efficient debut in the preseason against the San Francisco 49ers, playing 34 snaps and hauling in both of his targets for 21 yards.

He followed that up by logging four receptions for 70 yards in the 27-7 win over the Cardinals.

Then again, it wasn’t just his reliable hands.

He’s a willing blocker who showed that he wouldn’t mind taking some big hits for the sake of the team, diving and getting on the ground to open up lanes for Evan Engram in a big play.

With Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. out like the rest of the starters, Bryant made the most of every single chance he got to showcase his skills.

He looked on the same page with backup QB Jarrett Stidham on every dropback and target, and while he still needs to do the same with Bo Nix, it seems like he’s taken ownership of the offense.

The Broncos are coming off a trip to the playoffs, but expectations are significantly higher in the second year of the Bo Nix-Sean Payton era.

Bryant still has some catching up to do, and there will be a learning process like with all rookies, but he’s trending in the right direction.

The post Broncos Rookie Growing Confident As Preseason Progresses appeared first on The Cold Wire.