Evan Engram signed a two-year, $23 million deal with the Denver Broncos in free agency, including $16.5 million guaranteed. His addition provides an immediate boost to the team’s passing game, filling a key need. However, looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, Michigan tight end Colston Loveland has emerged as a possible long-term option. Despite his potential, not everyone sees Loveland as the right fit for Denver.
Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report suggests the Broncos should reconsider selecting Loveland, even if they decide to draft a tight end. On April 20, he argued that the Broncos don’t need to force a pick at the position. While Loveland is considered the most complete tight end in the 2025 class, he recently underwent shoulder surgery and may not match the offensive preferences of head coach Sean Payton. Sobleski instead recommends Penn State’s Tyler Warren, who offers more versatility in alignment and receiving, despite being less effective as an in-line blocker than Loveland.
Sobleski also notes the Broncos may find more impactful players at other positions, such as running back or wide receiver, in the first round.
Still, some analysts believe Loveland could be a better fit than he’s given credit for. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranked him as the No. 2 tight end and the 11th-best overall prospect in the class. Brugler praised Loveland’s versatility, pointing out that he lined up in the slot nearly half the time last season and can serve as a reliable multi-level receiver. Although not a dominant blocker, Loveland’s athleticism, hands, and awareness make him a strong offensive asset, drawing comparisons to Zach Ertz.
The Broncos last used a first-round pick on a tight end in 2019 when they selected Noah Fant, who was later traded to Seattle in the deal for Russell Wilson—whom they cut in 2024 despite an $85 million dead cap hit.
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