The Denver Broncos telegraphed their plan to improve the offense in the offseason. Head coach Sean Payton made it clear that he wanted Jokers all over the unit to ensure that quarterback Bo Nix had dynamic playmakers both in the pass-catching group and on the ground.
The biggest addition to fit that bill that the Broncos made all offseason was Evan Engram. The former Jacksonville Jaguars star fit the bill perfectly, and he could have been an ideal player to elevate a mediocre Denver offense from last season. Unfortunately, his time with the Broncos did not get off on the right foot.
What Happened to Evan Engram?
In his debut for Payton, Engram was facing off against a hungry Tennessee Titans squad that was hoping to turn a page with rookie Cam Ward at the helm. Through three quarters, he had a solid outing, with three receptions worth 21 yards.
However, near the end of the third period, the veteran tight end came hopping off the field and into the medical tent. It appeared unclear what the exact injury was. But the Broncos fan base did not have to worry for long.
Evan Engram has his helmet and appears to be ready to go back in the game.
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) September 7, 2025
Soon after, team beat reporter Zac Stevens confirmed on X, “Evan Engram has his helmet and appears to be ready to go back in the game.”
Sean Payton made noise in his New Orleans days with Jimmy Graham playing the “Joker” role, and that was the hope for Engram (third most catches per game at the position from 2022-24).
Courtland Sutton was great last season, but he was the only Bronco to clear 510 receiving yards. The hope is/was that Engram can help aid Bo Nix’s developmental process, thus allowing this team to compete while he’s on his rookie deal.
Engram’s Status for Week 2
As of Thursday, September 11, Engram is listed as questionable for Week 2 with a calf injury. He was limited in Wednesday’s practice, but it appears the Broncos are simply being cautious to prevent further aggravation.
After opening the season with a win over the Titans, Denver now turns its attention to the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. It’s shaping up to be a tough matchup, and Engram will be counted on to make an impact if the Broncos want to start 2-0.
#UPDATE: Engram practiced without any limitation on Thursday, and is trending in the right direction to play on Sunday.
Engram’s Fantasy Outlook
Engram was a polarizing player heading into fantasy drafts. On one hand, his talent remains a major question. On the other hand, he looked to have little competition for the TE1 role in an offense that lacked a clear second option in the passing game.
By the time he exited, Engram was already trending toward being a player fantasy managers should avoid in Week 2 lineups. Regardless of his health, he does not belong in starting lineups right now.
As for the Broncos, the offense looks like a full-blown rotation outside of Sutton. For now, Sutton is the only player worth starting in fantasy.
