The Denver Broncos have added an exciting new weapon to their offense, and his name is Justin Joly. Selected in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, this tight end brings a blend of reliability and playmaking ability that could make him an instant contributor for the team.

Joly's collegiate career, split between UConn and NC State, is a testament to his consistency. Over 49 games, he hauled in 166 passes for 1,978 yards and 15 touchdowns. His standout 2023 season with the Huskies saw him lead the team in both receptions (58) and receiving yards (578). But it was his 2025 campaign with the Wolfpack that truly turned heads, earning him first-team All-ACC honors while leading the team in catches (49).

What makes Joly special? It’s his hands. In a league where drops can derail drives, Joly dropped just one pass out of 50 catchable targets last season. He’s the kind of player who makes the tough catches look routine, whether it's an acrobatic grab in traffic or a touchdown catch while playing through an injury. On tape, he’s a nightmare for defenses—hard to bring down, often requiring multiple defenders to tackle, and a master of contested catches, winning those battles more often than not.

Joly projects as a dynamic middle-of-the-field and underneath target for the Broncos' offense. While he may not be the most explosive athlete, his large catch radius, excellent body control, and soft hands make him a reliable safety valve. Add in his impressive contact balance and ability to make defenders miss after the catch, and you have a tight end who can move the chains and create big plays.

As rookie minicamp kicks off this week, all eyes will be on Joly to see how quickly he can make an impression on the coaching staff. If his highlight reel is any indication, Broncos fans have plenty to be excited about.