Evan Engram can help Bo Nix, Broncos offense take next step

Good morning, Broncos Country!

Evan Engram was the splashy move on offense this offseason.

Labeled as “the Joker” for the Denver Broncos, having a viable tight end is massive for a Sean Payton offense. It’ll also be an added element for quarterback Bo Nix as he looks to take the next step in Year 2. A tight end threat that Nix didn’t have in his rookie season. Having Engram in the fold opens up so many possibilities for Payton and Nix.

As the regular season inches closer, Engram’s role in taking this offense, and Nix, to the next level is already clear.

That’s especially true in the middle of the field.

“I think it helps a lot, depending on the coverages you’re getting,” Payton said to the Denver media this week. “Your third-down and your red-zone game plans, I think it really helps.”

Where Engram becomes a threat is the multitude of looks Payton can use him in. Whether it’s as a typical tight end, out of the backfield, or in the slot. And that’s just the start. Since everyone is looking for comps, Engram could become a Jimmy Graham-type tight end for the Broncos. If Engram is even close to that level of production, Nix and the Denver offense will be incredibly difficult to defend.

“It’s very clear from the beginning that he’s all about football and he’s all about taking care of himself,” Nix said to the media this week about Engram. “He’s been here since he was signed, getting ready and preparing. That’s been fun to see. So, I’ve gotten to be around him a lot.

The key is the work the Broncos are putting in right now. Developing that chemistry and rapport in practice will lead to success for that new duo and Denver’s offense when the games count.

“Early on in OTAs, you get to come out here and throw routes and just see what he’s like,” Nix said. “See what kind of routes he runs and see what he’s thinking. We talk a lot. He’s always asking me about certain things. When you get him out to practice, it’s just seeing how he reacts. I’m excited to include him and add him to what we already have. I think it’ll be good for us.”

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