One of a series looking at the position groups for the Broncos heading into training camp. Today: tight ends.
Itap too early to tell which Broncos tight end will emerge as quarterback ’s go-to option this fall. Here’s what we do know: That pass-catching, run-blocking void in Denver’s offense will likely be filled by a former Big Ten standout.
Five of the six tight ends currently on the Broncos’ roster hail from the same college conference — Jake Butt (Michigan), (Ohio State), Matt LaCosse (Illinois), Troy Fumagalli (Wisconsin) and Austin Traylor (Wisconsin). Then there’s Big Ten outsider (Albany).
In recent years, the Broncos have gotten little production from the tight end position. Not since hauled in 12 touchdowns in 2014 have the Broncos featured a dynamic red-zone threat at tight end.
Butt appears to have the highest ceiling among the unit, though he has yet to play in the NFL. Had it not been for a re-torn right ACL as a senior in the Orange Bowl, Butt was projected by many as a second-round NFL draft talent. The Broncos landed him with the first pick of the fifth round, and after a season of rehabilitation, Butt is now at full health.
“(Butt) wants the ball no matter what and I like that,” Keenum said. “I like a guy that comes back to the huddle and, ‘Hey, were you open on that play,’ and even if there were three guys on him, he’s like, ‘Yeah, you could’ve fit it in.’ He wants the ball and I love that. He’s hungry for knowledge, for how to run routes, for how to maneuver with leverage and I’m excited for him to continue to keep going.”
Heuerman, a third-round pick in 2015, enters a possible make-or-break fourth season in Denver. He had just nine receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns a season ago. LaCosse, Traylor and Parker are still green in their NFL careers and have combined for just 12 catches. Fumagalli, a fifth-round pick in April’s draft, faces a steep learning curve after groin surgery and might not be on the field anytime soon.
No matter which player steps into the No. 1 tight end role, though, stability at quarterback should benefit the entire group.
“Playing with three different quarterbacks and going week to week last year, itap kind of tough sometimes getting into a rhythm and getting into the groove of things,” Heuerman said. “Hopefully with Case we can get into a good rhythm and build on that week to week.”
Up next: Offensive line
TIGHT ENDS
| No. | Player | Age | Year | Ht./Wt. | College |
| 80 | Jake Butt | 23 | 2nd | 6-6/250 | Michigan |
| 2017 team: Broncos | Signed through 2020 | Cap number: $555,234 | |||
| Missed rookie season with a torn ACL in his right knee. Likely starter in Week 1. | |||||
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| 82 | Jeff Heuerman | 25 | 5th | 6-5/255 | Ohio State |
| 2017 team: Broncos | Signed through 2018 | Cap number: $875,203 | |||
| Most veteran tight end on the roster despite only 18 career catches for 293 yards, 2 TDs. | |||||
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| 83 | Matt LaCosse | 25 | 4th | 6-6/255 | Illinois |
| 2017 team: Broncos | Signed through 2018 | Cap number: $555,000 | |||
| Signed from the Giants practice squad in December. Played sparingly a year ago. | |||||
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| 84 | Troy Fumagalli | 23 | R | 6-5/247 | Wisconsin |
| 2017 team: Wisconsin | Signed through 2021 | Cap number: $550,450 | |||
| Sat out of OTAs and mini-camp after groin surgery. Won the John Mackey Award in college. | |||||
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| 86 | Austin Traylor | 24 | 3rd | 6-3/255 | Wisconsin |
| 2017 team: Broncos | Signed through 2018 | Cap number: $555,000 | |||
| Signed to four different practice squads before landing in Denver. Had 8 catches last fall. | |||||
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| 89 | Brian Parker | 26 | 3rd | 6-4/265 | Albany |
| 2017 team: Chiefs (2015) | Signed through 2018 | Cap number: $555,000 | |||
| Has not appeared in an NFL game since 2015. Signed a Broncos’ reserve/future contract in January. | |||||
Source: overthecap.com for salary information.
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