The Denver Broncos closed out their second week of organized team activities with a clear theme emerging from Dove Valley: buy-in matters — and so does being here.
Head Coach Sean Payton, tight end Evan Engram, and defensive tackle DJ Jones spoke after Thursday’s session, pointing to a growing chemistry, strong veteran leadership, and an eagerness to raise the standard heading into mandatory minicamp.
“We’re pleased with the progressions,” Payton said. “It’s not just about installation — it’s about how fast we’re playing through it. We’re seeing that growth.”
But beyond playbooks and drills, Payton is focused on reshaping the culture of offseason work itself. Asked about past challenges with voluntary program participation, he explained that the Broncos are intentionally building trust with players about why being in Denver during the offseason pays off.
“I think we’re selling the offseason program, and we’re selling the injury data prior to the last two seasons,” Payton said. “Strength coaches, those on the training staff, the whole program. If the confidence level is high in what we’re selling and doing, then generally speaking, your attendance is high.”
And so far, the results speak for themselves.
“Everyone’s here,” Payton said. “The sum total of the five weeks prior in the weight room, out on the field running — it’s been outstanding.”
He added that Denver provides unique advantages compared to other cities.
“I would say this city is conducive to players wanting to train here. That can be challenging at some other places.”
It’s a subtle but important shift — transforming offseason work from an obligation to an opportunity. One that players embrace rather than avoid.
“Part of that is a byproduct of playing young players a year ago,” Payton said. “We’re further along with regards to what we’re doing. Now you still have to turn the gameboard over and start from the beginning.”
Engram embracing “Joker” role
Among Denver’s new faces, Evan Engram has quickly bought into the vision Payton and the offensive staff outlined.
“Denver was the first team to call when I got cut,” Engram said. “Just talking with them and getting to know them, then getting here, getting into the building and feeling the energy here… I’m blessed to be here.”
Payton noted Engram’s awareness and instincts, both against zone and man coverage. For the player, embracing a versatile “Joker” role is both exciting and challenging.
“It was a big part of the pitch coming here,” Engram said. “I definitely see that it is something that has to be earned with the way I work and the way that I learn the offense to gain the trust of Sean, [QB] Bo [Nix] and the rest of the coaches and players.”
Engram, who described himself as a “cleaner” — a player who embraces adversity and consistency — is eager to help elevate Denver’s young quarterback.
“I like to see myself as someone that can come in and help his development and take this team to another level,” he said of Nix. “The potential is through the roof.”
Defensive culture remains a strength
On defense, DJ Jones returned to OTAs after re-signing earlier this offseason — and wasted no time reinforcing the identity that helped the Broncos climb to a top-five unit last year.
“It was everything. I wanted to be back here, and so we made it happen quick,” Jones said.
Jones emphasized a collective, ego-free approach in the defensive line room.
“We all want to come in here and work together to get better, make everyone better, get everyone paid and all that good stuff,” he said. “There are no egos.”
The veteran also praised new additions Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga, both former 49ers teammates.
“They are game-changers,” Jones said. “Just go back and watch the film. Don’t even watch highlights, just watch them play after play and you’ll see. [Talanoa Hufanga] had a pick today.”
Rookie defenders Sai’vion Jones and Que Robinson also drew Jones’ attention.
“He will be special one day,” Jones said of Sai’vion. “He’s young right now. He’s eager to learn, but he will be very special one day.”
“They both have the ability to be great,” Jones added. “He has length, he loves to learn, and he played in the SEC. [Que Robinson is] an SEC guy who played against high competition. He’s strong, as you can see.”
Asked about how the group can take another step, Jones said it comes down to the daily grind.
“It’s about the details for us,” he said. “Every day that we come out here, we just have to get one percent better every day.”
Depth and development
Payton also addressed several younger players showing progress during OTAs.
WR Marvin Mims Jr.:
“Confidence is born out of demonstrated ability. That began early part of the middle [of the] season. You could see it and certainly feel it now.”
WR Troy Franklin:
“There have been a number of explosive plays. He can run, and… after the catch, he can run.”
CB Jahdae Barron:
“He’s extremely smart, and he played both at Texas. His instincts are real, real high.”
Payton said rookie DE Sai’vion Jones and OLB Que Robinson are “acclimating themselves,” noting that true evaluation will come once padded practices begin.
On the offensive line, Payton underscored the group’s impact on the entire roster.
“If you’re not really good on the offensive line, you don’t know how good you are then on the defensive line,” he said. “It’s the first line of attack… It’s extremely important to get that group right.”
Payton also spoke about the importance of re-signing Jones.
“He’s important to what we do both in the run and the passing game,” Payton said. “I consider him a leader and a really good football player.”
What’s ahead
The Broncos will enter mandatory minicamp next week with three final sessions before players break ahead of training camp.
RB J.K. Dobbins visited the facility Thursday, and Payton said the team will “see where it goes” regarding a potential signing.
With both veterans and newcomers setting the tone during OTAs, Payton sees an opportunity to carry that energy forward into the next phase of the offseason.
