The Denver Broncos made a savvy move in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting versatile tight end Justin Joly out of NC State. And if his first words to the media are any indication, the rookie is ready to make an immediate impact.

"Honestly, anything they need me to do, I’m looking forward to," Joly said during a post-draft conference call. "They just said I have to go out there and ball... Go play all over the field. Sean Payton and George Paton both believe in me. I’m looking forward to it."

At 6-foot-3 and 241 pounds, Joly brings a modern, hybrid skill set that fits perfectly into today's NFL. The Broncos see him as more than just a receiving threat—they plan to move him around the formation, using him in the backfield, in the slot, and as a blocker in the run game. That versatility is exactly what head coach Sean Payton values in his tight ends.

"I feel like there are a lot of things that they feel like I can do," Joly explained. "Obviously, I’m going to have to learn and get ready to just play. Overall, I look forward to it, and I know they do too. I’m just happy they believe in my skill set."

Joly's college production speaks for itself: 92 receptions for 1,150 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 25 games with the Wolfpack. While his receiving numbers jump off the page, he's also confident in his blocking ability, acknowledging that improved coaching at the pro level will only sharpen that part of his game.

"I’m super confident," Joly said of his blocking. "I feel like I’m going to have more coaching as well, so just being able to go down there and show off that I can do both, catching and blocking. I feel like the Broncos have faith in me. They chose me for a reason."

With veteran tight end Evan Engram turning 32 this September, Joly could be the long-term answer in Denver's passing game. He'll get his first taste of NFL action when rookies report for minicamp later this week (May 8-10), making him one of the most intriguing players to watch as summer approaches.