ENGLEWOOD — Under a blazing Colorado sun and with cranes towering in the distance constructing a $175 million future home for the franchise, the Denver Broncos’ 2025 rookie class took the field for day two open minicamp practice on Saturday. With temperatures hitting 79 degrees—though it felt far hotter out on the field —the energy was high, the drills looked fairly sharp, and there was definitely a bit of excitement in the air.

It was the first chance for coaches and media to see the future of the Broncos in motion.

A Glimpse Into the Future

As players ran through their paces on the outdoor fields, just behind them stood the skeletal framework of the Broncos’ new facility, a clear symbol of transition and ambition. Head Coach Sean Payton opened his media availability with satisfaction about the first two days of rookie camp.

“We’ve had two good days weather-wise, workout-wise,” Payton said. “With the tempo of the drills, it’s always difficult when you bring in a collective this large. A lot of these players are trying out for three days… Overall, I’ve been pleased with the two practices.”

With over two dozen drafted, undrafted, and tryout players in attendance, competition was everywhere—even under the intense Colorado sun.

RJ Harvey Wastes No Time

One of the standout names through two practices has been running back RJ Harvey, the second-round selection out of UCF. His agility, vision, and receiving ability earned praise from Payton.

“He’s picked up on very quickly what we’re doing,” Payton said. “You can tell it’s real important to him… Each day there’s another little bit of an installation where we add a little bit more to it.”

Harvey, who played quarterback in high school, said that background helps him process the game faster.

“Playing quarterback has given me an advantage with my vision,” Harvey said. “I can see what the defense is doing, so it’s given me an edge.”

Adjusting to Denver’s altitude hasn’t been easy, though.

“I’m getting adjusted to it. It’s been a little tough,” Harvey admitted. “Everybody has said it’ll take about a week or two to get used to it.”

He’s motivated by the team’s potential—and quarterback Bo Nix.

“I love how he plays,” Harvey said. “This is a great team… a young team, great defense. I’m just ready to get to work with all the vets.”

Jahdae Barron: Sticky and Smart

Cornerback Jahdae Barron, Denver’s first-round pick, lived up to expectations early. Known for his twitchy movements and elite awareness, Barron earned his praise from Payton.

“He has really quick twitch. I’d say he’s sticky in coverage… He’s one of those players that already at a young age understands splits,” Payton explained. “You feel a veteran player.”

Barron spoke with maturity and humility after practice.

“It’s fun just to be out here,” he said. “I’m just adjusting… learning the play schemes, the concepts… I told the corners today just to take in the moment and be committed to the process without being attached to the results.”

And about that No. 12 jersey?

“It’s just for right now, but I’m enjoying it,” he said with a smile. “I’ll wear it with a lot of pride.”

Local Pride and Global Journeys

Safety Henry Blackburn, a Colorado native, soaked in the moment of donning a Broncos helmet for the first time.

“That was awesome. Growing up in Colorado, you always see the Broncos play,” he said. “It’s just really a blessing to be able to be in this position.”

On the opposite end of the globe, punter Jeremy Crawshaw began his journey in Australia. His dream? To one day land in Denver.

“When I came to America, my coaches asked me where I wanted to play and I said the University of Colorado,” Crawshaw said. “It’s a bit of a full-circle moment. It’s awesome.”

Physicality on the Outside

Wide receiver Pat Bryant was physical and confident throughout the session.

“At Illinois, I earned my way on to the field being that blocking guy,” Bryant said. “When the ball is in the air, it’s mine.”

He showed off those contested catch abilities in drills, often matched up against Barron.

“That was great coverage by Jahdae,” he said. “But those are the catches that I have to make to be successful at this level.”

Developmental Projects with Big Potential

Former LSU defensive end Sai’vion Jones is embracing the opportunity to join Denver’s league-leading pass rush unit.

“Just being in a room with the team that produced the most sacks in the league… it makes you want to study them,” Jones said.

Tight end Caleb Lohner, who played basketball before switching to football, drew natural comparisons to Jimmy Graham. Payton didn’t shy away from the likeness.

“There are traits there that excite me,” Payton said. “You guys see him, shake his hand, stand next to him… ‘Holy cow.’”

Lohner’s goals are simple.

“All I want to do here is improve every day and learn the game of football,” he said. “I think this is the best place for it.”

The Special Teams Grinder

Fourth-round linebacker Que Robinson lit up when talking about special teams.

“I like to win. If that means running down on kickoffs 5,000 times… I want to do it,” he said. “That’s my huge driving force… I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win.”

He also expressed admiration for Broncos star cornerback Pat Surtain II.

“Pat is my favorite defensive football player from Alabama,” Robinson said. “It’s a good feeling to be on the team with somebody that I look up to.”

A Message from the Top

Throughout the day, Sean Payton reiterated that every player, regardless of how they arrived, is evaluated equally.

“Once you arrive here, how you arrived here isn’t important to us. You’re here,” Payton said. “That’s important—that we do a close job looking closely at them.”

Payton also touched on his philosophy of playing rookies.

“It’s a young man’s game. That’s the fun part of it,” he said. “We can’t be afraid to develop.”

Coach has one of the highest percentages for playing rookies throughout his career. He’s proven he’s not afraid to give the rookies some action early.

As Saturday’s session wrapped up, it was clear that this rookie class brings a mix of raw potential, high character, and infectious energy. The next steps come in summer training camp, when veterans return and pads come on. But for now, the Broncos’ future continues to look bright—and getting its first reps in the shadow of a new home.

“We’re going to try to get this building over here built,” Payton joked. “I like our setup… In one year—give or take—we’ll be moving over there.”

For the Broncos, the foundation of the future isn’t just being poured in concrete across the practice field. It’s taking shape one rep, one route, and one rookie at a time.