The Denver Broncos add TE Evan Engram to support rookie QB Bo Nix in June 2025. Learn how his new 'Joker' role will transform the Broncos' offense this season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Forget the cards, the Broncos have found their 'Joker.' Veteran tight end Evan Engram is set to become a nightmare for opposing defenses, officially embracing a versatile, mismatch-creating role designed to be the ultimate safety blanket and offensive weapon for rookie quarterback Bo Nix. As the team fine-tunes its new-look offense, this move signals a clear strategy: get creative and give the kid a chance to shine.
This versatile 'Joker' role is expected to be a key component of the Broncos' offensive strategy for the 2025 season.
After a whirlwind free agency, Evan Engram has found his home in the Mile High City, and it sounds like the perfect fit. According to reports from Mike Klis, Coach Sean Payton plans to deploy Engram all over the formation as an offensive 'Joker.' Think of it as a queen on the chessboard—a piece that can line up in-line, in the slot, or even out wide to exploit favorable matchups against slower linebackers or smaller defensive backs. For a rookie QB like Bo Nix, having a reliable, 6'3" target who can consistently get open is invaluable. This isn't just about adding a tight end; it's about installing a core offensive philosophy built on flexibility and creating headaches for defensive coordinators.
While the passing game gets a new wrinkle, the backfield remains a question mark. The silence from team headquarters regarding running back J.K. Dobbins is telling. Following his visit earlier in the week, no deal has been announced. Dobbins was a dynamic force for the Chargers last season before an injury cut his year short after eight games. His potential signing represents a classic low-risk, high-reward scenario. Do the Broncos feel confident enough in their current running back room, or are they simply doing their due diligence on Dobbins' health before committing? His addition could provide a much-needed veteran presence and a different style of runner to complement the existing group.
The patient approach with Dobbins mirrors the team's ongoing evaluation of its linebacker corps. Depth remains a significant concern, especially with Dre Greenlaw, Alex Singleton, and Drew Sanders all recovering from injuries. While Coach Payton has expressed confidence that Greenlaw will be ready for training camp after his quad injury, the team's continued search for reinforcements suggests they aren't taking any chances. A strong defense needs reliable depth, and the front office is clearly working to ensure that one more injury doesn't cripple the heart of their defense. It's a waiting game on multiple fronts for the Broncos' brass.
As the early June quiet continues, the Broncos' 2025 identity is slowly taking shape. The offense is getting a creative spark with Engram's 'Joker' role, but key decisions at running back and linebacker will determine just how complete this roster is. All eyes now turn to the coming weeks and the start of training camp, where these new pieces and healing players will finally come together on the field.
