ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Denver Broncos made a strategic move on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft by trading up to select tight end Justin Joly out of NC State with the 152nd overall pick in the fifth round, the team announced on Saturday.
This pick strengthens a Broncos tight end group that has been evolving in recent seasons. Joly, a 6-foot-3, 245-pound athlete, brings a blend of size, athleticism, and after-the-catch ability that offensive coordinator Davis Webb can integrate into the offense early in his rookie season.
Denver's move to acquire Joly highlights the team's continued focus on adding dynamic playmakers around young quarterback Sam Ehlinger. Joly represents a valuable pick in a tight end class regarded as deep yet lacking an elite standout at the top.
Trade Details
To move up eight spots from No. 160 to No. 152, the Broncos traded their 2026 sixth-round pick (No. 182 overall) and 2026 seventh-round pick (No. 228 overall) to the Cleveland Browns, according to league sources. By giving up these selections, Denver demonstrated a clear desire to secure Joly without relinquishing early-round capital.
General Manager George Paton has proven willing to be aggressive in late rounds when targeting specific players. This reflects a draft-day philosophy of prioritizing talent acquisition over rigid adherence to draft capital valuations.
Justin Joly's Background
Joly began his college career at UConn before transferring to NC State for his final season in 2025. His transition to the ACC was smooth and productive, leading to his elevated draft status.
In 2025 at NC State, Joly recorded 58 receptions for 712 yards and six touchdowns -- a significant improvement over his 45 receptions for 518 yards and three touchdowns at UConn in 2024. Despite the step up in competition, Joly showcased reliable route-running skills and an ability to create separation against tougher defenders.
Scouts have praised Joly's advanced understanding of zone coverage and his precise timing in finding soft spots in defenses. This makes him a reliable target, especially as a safety valve option for his quarterback under pressure.
What stands out in Joly's profile is his effectiveness after the catch. In 2025, he forced 18 missed tackles -- the second most among FBS tight ends, according to Sports Info Solutions. He combines power running through tackles with enough agility to evade defenders in open space. He draws some comparisons to a lower-profile version of Travis Kelce, albeit with realistic expectations given this is a developmental prospect.
Fit Within the Broncos Offense
Denver's tight end room, post-Noah Fant, has lacked consistent production and depth. Greg Dulcich has flashed potential but has been hampered by injuries. Veterans Adam Trautman and developmental Lucas Krull provide depth but have yet to fully assert themselves in the offense.
Joly is expected to slot as a move tight end who can line up inline, in the slot, or flex wide. His versatility fits well with Davis Webb's offensive schemes, which historically target tight ends in intermediate passing routes.
While Joly's inline blocking technique requires improvement -- particularly to handle the run game against NFL edge rushers -- the Broncos prioritize receiving ability over blocking prowess at the position. This aligns with previous draft picks like Dulcich and Krull, who were valued as pass-catching specialists.
Denver coaches hope Joly can contribute immediately in two-tight end sets and on special teams while continuing to develop as a blocker. His advanced route-running and reliable hands suggest he will earn playing time as a rookie, especially if the tight end room faces injuries.
Draft Context and Broncos Strategy
The 2026 tight end class was deep but did not feature a first-round star, with no tight ends selected in Round 1 and only three picked by the end of Day 2. Joly was viewed by many analysts as a top-five tight end in the class by the time of his selection, making his value in Round 5 notable.
Denver entered the draft with six picks and had addressed needs along the offensive line and secondary early. Prioritizing tight end in the middle rounds signals confidence in the receiver corps and a recognition that the tight end position remains an area for improvement.
Looking Ahead
The Broncos have two remaining selections in the draft: a sixth-round pick at No. 198 and a seventh-rounder at No. 228. These will likely be used to target depth on the defensive line and developmental players at cornerback, though Paton's draft strategy often includes surprises.
For Joly, the journey to meaningful snaps starts immediately in rookie minicamp, followed by training camp and preseason. The tight end depth chart behind Trautman is open, providing Joly a clear opportunity to contribute if he impresses coaches.
Joly's presence also reunites him with fellow former NC State product, reinforcing the Broncos' interest in Wolfpack alumni who fit their system and culture.
The 152nd overall pick has historically yielded quality NFL contributors, including Pro Bowl-caliber players. The Broncos are betting that Justin Joly will develop into a valuable asset and successor to their former tight end core.
