Sean Payton isn't one to hand out praise lightly, but during Saturday's media session at Broncos rookie minicamp, the head coach couldn't help himself. While fielding a routine question about veteran participation in the camp, Payton pivoted unprompted to sing the praises of a player who has clearly turned heads: second-year tight end Caleb Lohner.

"I'll tell you who stood out — Caleb," Payton told reporters, before launching into an enthusiastic two-minute breakdown of the 6'7", 265-pound tight end's transformation. "He looks entirely different in this camp. Now he was here a year ago as a draft pick, but he stood out."

When pressed on what exactly Lohner is doing better this year compared to last, Payton didn't mince words: "Everything."

The coach elaborated on Lohner's remarkable growth, noting that the former basketball prospect entered the league with just one season of college football under his belt and in a very limited role. "That learning curve and growth curve was greater for someone who had far less experience," Payton explained. "It's entirely noticeable, and he's in great shape. You see his athleticism."

Payton also highlighted a gritty, physical edge that has caught his eye, invoking wisdom from Hall of Fame coach Bill Parcells: "If they don't bite when they're puppies, they're probably never going to bite." The coach praised Lohner's fearlessness, recalling how the tight end would line up as an outside linebacker on the scout team last season to rush the tackles, despite his towering frame. "He's 6'7", 265 pounds and he's not afraid of the contact," Payton said. "So it's been good to see him in Year 2. You knew there was going to be a developmental upside, but that was encouraging."

For Broncos fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike, this kind of unsolicited praise from a coach known for his measured public comments is worth noting. Lohner entered the league raw, but if this minicamp performance is any indication, he's on track to become a legitimate weapon in Denver's offense. Keep an eye on this one — the puppy might just be ready to bite.