Evan Engram joins Broncos, embraces versatile "Joker" role

Evan Engram, a 30-year-old tight end, has a new role with the Denver Broncos this season. He is known as the “Joker,” a term used by coach Sean Payton to describe a versatile player who can create mismatches on the field. After struggling in his earlier career, Engram hopes to thrive in this position. Engram’s journey has been anything but typical. He gained attention as a talented pass-catcher at Ole Miss but faced challenges with expectations about his size and role. In college, he was known for his athleticism but also faced moments of doubt. He struggled early in his NFL career with drops and criticism while playing for the New York Giants. After moving to the Jacksonville Jaguars, he revitalized his career, achieving a Pro Bowl season in 2023. During this time, he transformed his training and worked on improving his catch mechanics. He focused on nutrition and mental toughness, leading to impressive performances. Engram's recent journey to the Broncos began after he was released by the Jaguars due to injury-related salary-cap issues. Desiring a chance to play for a winning team, he signed with Denver, excited about Payton’s vision for him. Engram feels the Joker role aligns with his skills and ambitions. Now in Denver, Engram expects to be challenged and utilized in innovative ways, fitting into a system that will maximize his strengths. He is eager to help the Broncos compete and prove his worth as a key player.