ENGLEWOOD, CO — The Denver Broncos continued to bolster their offensive arsenal in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant with the 74th overall pick in the third round. Bryant’s consistent hands, physicality, and experience make him a promising addition to Denver’s receiving corps.
A Standout Senior Season
Bryant’s senior year at Illinois was marked by impressive production. He recorded 54 receptions for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 18.2 yards per catch. His performance tied the school’s single-season touchdown record and placed him ninth all-time in career receiving yards for the Fighting Illini .
Physical Attributes and Play Style
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 204 pounds, Bryant is known for his ability to win contested catches and his physical presence on the field. Scouting reports highlight his innate ball skills, body control, and understanding of leverage, making him a reliable target in one-on-one situations .
Versatility and Team Contribution
Bryant’s versatility extends beyond his receiving capabilities. He takes pride in contributing to the run game, stating, “My motto was always, ‘You block, you get the rock.’ So my main focus was just using my physicality both in the pass game as well as the run game, just helping my running backs get to the end zone.”
His alignment versatility allows him to line up both outside and in the slot, providing flexibility in offensive schemes.
Eager to Join the Broncos
Upon receiving the call from the Broncos, Bryant expressed his excitement: “I got the call and the family got excited, so I’m just ready to get to the Broncos and go to work.” He emphasized his readiness to contribute, stating, “I still feel like I got a lot of work to do.”
Bryant also looks forward to playing alongside quarterback Bo Nix, noting, “Just having an opportunity to play with a great quarterback like Bo Nix, it’ll be very, very special.”
With his combination of size, reliable hands, and willingness to contribute in various aspects of the game, Pat Bryant is poised to be a valuable asset to the Denver Broncos’ offense. His addition reflects the team’s commitment to building a versatile and dynamic receiving unit as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
