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Sean Payton's Unique 'Joker' Role for New TE Evan Engram in Denver

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 6, 2025 2:35 PM ET

Head coach Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos have been loading up on offensive weapons for second-year quarterback Bo Nix.

That includes signing veteran tight end Evan Engram, who was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason, on a deal worth $23 million over two years.

Engram led the NFL in receptions among tight ends two years ago (114) as a pro bowler. Now, he is coming off of a season plagued by injures, where he played just nine games and caught 47 balls.

The eight year vets' versatility as a pass catcher and offensive weapon has positioned himself to be a key cog in Payton's offense as a target for Nix.

According to Kevin Patra of NFL.com, Payton wants to use Engram's skillset in the "Joker" role and the new Broncos tight end seemed to be embracing the new title.

"Sean talked about it a lot. It was a big part of the pitch coming here. The fans are great here, so just was kind of embracing that narrative a little bit. But I definitely see that as something that's got to be earned with the way I work," Engram said.

Patra noted that the Broncos have struggled to get great play out of their tight ends, in an offense where the Broncos' head coach needs it.

"Payton views the pass-catching tight end as the ideal weapon to open up the middle of the offense," Patra wrote.

If Payton's right and if Engram can stay healthy this season, wide receivers Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims and rookie Troy Franklin could see more big-play opportunities.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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