Broncos’ Rookie Set to Shine: A ‘Tremendous Draft-Day Steal’
The Denver Broncos drafted quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 draft. As the team prepares for training camp and the preseason, Nix seems to be the frontrunner for the starting position. His potential for a strong start is bolstered by his familiarity with fourth-round pick, wide receiver Troy Franklin.
Brent Sobleski from Bleacher Report noted on June 19 that this pre-existing connection could significantly benefit Franklin’s integration into the team. “Familiarity will help Troy Franklin as part of the Denver Broncos,” Sobleski commented, predicting that Franklin could be a draft-day steal if his college connection with Nix translates to the NFL.
Bo Nix deep ball to Troy Franklin #BroncosCountry pic.twitter.com/j6HVrLZhVk
— DNVR Broncos (@DNVR_Broncos) June 11, 2024
Franklin was highlighted as one of the most promising non-first-round picks, having finished his college career with 1,383 yards and 14 touchdowns on 81 receptions, aiding Nix in achieving a record-setting 77.4% completion rate.
The duo has even earned the nickname “Denver Ducks,” a nod from former Broncos running back Reuben Droughns. Ryan Fowler of Bleacher Report identified Franklin as the Broncos’ “most dangerous” addition due to his explosiveness and speed, anticipating that he will quickly enhance the Broncos’ receiving corps, especially following Jerry Jeudy’s trade to the Cleveland Browns.
Competition for Playing Time in the Broncos’ Offense
Despite his potential, Franklin faces tough competition from veterans like Courtland Sutton and Josh Reynolds, and promising youngster Marvin Mims Jr. Additionally, Devaughn Vele, another rookie, has shown promise during the offseason, and veteran Tim Patrick Jr. is expected to make a strong comeback.
Franklin’s familiarity with Nix could be a critical advantage, helping to streamline Nix’s transition to the NFL. With Sutton missing voluntary offseason activities and hinting at a possible training camp holdout, and Reynolds having limited experience as a top receiver, Franklin could seize the opportunity to earn significant playing time.
An Edge Over Experienced Players
The Broncos’ deep receiver roster includes 12 players, but only Franklin, Mims, Reynolds, Sutton, and Vele are contracted beyond this season. This could give Franklin an edge over experienced players like Super Bowl champion Phillip Dorsett and other incumbents such as Michael Bandy, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, Brandon Johnson, David Sills, and Jalen Virgil. Patrick remains a wildcard, working to return after two seasons sidelined by injuries.
Overall, Franklin’s familiarity with Nix and his impressive college performance position him as a key player to watch in the upcoming season.
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