Editor’s note: Third in a series previewing the Broncos’ position groups entering training camp.
Today: Tight ends
On the roster (six): Nate Adkins, Greg Dulcich, Tommy Hudson, Chris Manhertz, Albert Okwuegbunam, Adam Trautman.
How many on the 53? Four.
Most impactful offseason move: Signing Manhertz in free agency.
In both actions and words, coach Sean Payton has made it clear he wants the Broncos offense to run the dang ball. Beefing up the offensive line via free agency became a priority, but so, too, was adding Manhertz. The veteran tight end is regarded as one of the better run blockers at his position. He’s played in 104 career NFL games (49 starts) and caught just 24 passes on 36 targets in that span. His primary job isn’t to make big plays in the passing game, it’s to move people in the run game.
Biggest question to answer in camp: Is Dulcich ready to become The Guy?
As the offseason program progressed, you could almost see Payton’s wheels turning on how to maximize Dulcich’s abilities in the passing game. Health is a key factor — Dulcich dealt with hamstring injuries as a rookie — and he needs to be at least serviceable as a blocker. Young players certainly see roles develop over the course of a season, but Payton and the staff should have an even better feel for what Dulcich is ready for by Week 1.
Battle to watch: Okwuegbunam vs. the field.
Payton acknowledged Okweugbunam’s talent during the offseason program and said it’s prove-it time for the 25-year-old entering the final year of his rookie contract. Assuming good health, three spots are relatively clear with Dulcich, Manhertz and Trautman. Can Albert O. make himself a clear choice as the fourth? Consistency on the field and in the meeting room will be key for Okwuegbunam, whose production fell from 33 catches in 2021 to 10 last year.
Under the radar player: Adkins.
The college free agent from South Carolina is one of a few who will try to push for a roster spot but looks at the very least like a practice squad candidate. If he proves he can be a reliable special teams contributor, he may have a chance. Here’s what Payton said about him last month: “The first question we asked ourselves is, ‘Does he go with the tight end room, or does he go to the running back room?’ He can go to either. He goes to the tight end room, but he would be an ‘F’ tight end that would be used at times in some roles like (fullback Michael) Burton would be used in.”
Thursday: Wide receivers
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