Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has voiced strong approval for tight end Evan Engram, pointing to the veteran’s expanded involvement and improved blocking as key factors early in the 2026 season. Now in his second year with the team and his tenth season in the NFL, Engram is taking on a much more prominent role within offensive coordinator Davis Webb’s system.
Through the first two games of the season, Engram has been on the field for 57 percent of Denver’s offensive snaps. That figure marks a significant 15 percent jump from his workload during the 2025 campaign.
Speaking to reporters after practice, Payton praised the tight end’s versatility and growth, particularly when it comes to physical blocking assignments.
“He’s doing well,” Payton said. “He’s had a catch in each game, there’s some things he gives you in the passing game, and I think he’s blocking well, so I’m excited for him. I think he’s shown, especially in regard to protections and certain things, he gives you that threat. He’s doing well within the role.”
During his first season in Denver, Engram recorded 50 receptions for 461 yards and just one touchdown-some of the lowest production totals of his professional career. However, he has quickly matched that touchdown total in 2026. Through two games, he has caught five of his six targets for 60 yards and a score, with four of those receptions moving the chains for first downs.
Payton admitted that the coaching staff could have utilized Engram more effectively as a blocker last year, but noted that a strong offseason and training camp have allowed the team to safely deploy him in heavy personnel packages.
Expanding the Tight End Group
The Broncos have frequently utilized two- and three-tight-end formations to establish a steady ground attack and set up play-action passing concepts for second-year quarterback Bo Nix. Alongside Engram, third-year tight end Nate Adkins has emerged as another vital component of the offense.
Adkins, who missed nearly half of last season due to injury, delivered a standout performance in a recent comeback victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, hauling in three catches for 32 yards and a touchdown while maintaining a core role on special teams.
“He does a lot of things well,” Payton said of Adkins. “He can play in the kicking game; he blocks well. I don’t want to use the word Swiss Army Knife, but he’s one of those guys where once you describe the assignment, he’s really good blocking in space.”
As the Broncos prepare for their upcoming Sunday night matchup, the team will look for Engram and the rest of the tight end group to maintain their efficiency and build upon a promising start to the year.
