Breaking: Sean Payton Comes Down Hard on Rookie Who Left 49ers Game Without Permission!

Denver, CO – August 10, 2025 – The Broncos’ preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers was meant to be an early evaluation of depth and talent. Instead, it ended with head coach Sean Payton delivering a pointed disciplinary message to one of his newest draft picks.

On Saturday night, a rookie wide receiver taken in the third round left the stadium before the final whistle after seeing little to no action. The move, according to team sources, caught both coaches and teammates off guard.

That player was Pat Bryant, an expected contributor in Denver’s offensive plans, who currently sits behind Courtland Sutton, Devaughn Vele, and Trent Sherfield on the depth chart. While Sherfield impressed with three catches for 73 yards and a touchdown, Bryant’s name never appeared in the game highlights.

"You don’t walk out on the Orange and Blue just because your number wasn’t called. This is a team sport — in Denver, commitment comes first. If you can’t stand on the sideline with your brothers, you don’t belong in this locker room," Payton said postgame.

As a consequence, Bryant will be suspended for the Broncos’ remaining two preseason games and will practice in isolation for the rest of the week — without teammates or direct coaching support. The punishment underscores the value Payton places on accountability and presence, even when a player isn’t on the field.

Bryant, a versatile receiver with size and physicality, was drafted to bring depth and potential big-play ability to Denver’s offense. But as a rookie on the roster bubble, every opportunity — even standing on the sideline — is part of earning trust.

The former college standout is now in a precarious position. While his talent is undeniable, his absence in a key preseason moment could hurt his chances to secure a final roster spot or make an early impact.

With two preseason games left and roster decisions looming, the Broncos’ message is crystal clear — in Denver, wearing the Orange and Blue means standing with your team from the first snap to the last.