Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton praised tight end Evan Engram for his improved blocking and expanded role early in the 2026 season.
The ten-year NFL veteran has played 57 percent of Denver's offensive snaps through two games, a 15 percent jump from his 2025 campaign.
Engram has recorded five catches on six targets for 60 yards and a touchdown, matching his total touchdown count from last season.
Payton expressed confidence in Engram's progress following practice, pointing to his execution in pass protection and multi-tight-end schemes under offensive coordinator Davis Webb.
"He's doing well," Payton said.
"He's had a catch in each game, there's some things he gives you in the passing game, and I think he's blocking well, so I'm excited for him."
Payton acknowledged that the coaching staff could have utilized Engram more effectively during his first season in Denver after signing as a high-profile free agent in 2025.
"I think he's shown, especially in regard to protections and certain things, he gives you that threat," Payton said.
"He's doing well within the role."
The Broncos have frequently deployed two- and three-tight-end sets to establish a ground attack and set up play-action passing concepts for second-year quarterback Bo Nix.
"He's in his second year, and I think last year, honestly, there were things we could have done more with him on the field blocking, but he's had a good camp, and he's had a really good offseason," Payton said.
In addition to Engram, third-year tight end Nate Adkins has emerged as a key block-first option and versatile contributor after missing nearly half of last season due to injury.
Adkins hauled in three catches on three targets for 32 yards and a touchdown during a recent victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars while maintaining a primary role on special teams.
"He does a lot of things well," Payton said. "He can play in the kicking game; he blocks well.
I don't want to use the word Swiss Army Knife, but he's one of those guys where once you describe the assignment, he's really good blocking in space.
You see some of that carry over into the kicking game."
Denver's tight end group aims to maintain production and efficiency as the team prepares for its upcoming Sunday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
