DENVER — In late May, Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton hinted this could be coming.
Asked about Marvin Mims Jr.'s progression in 2024, Payton pointed to another young receiver who could make strides in the season ahead.
"I think you're going to see those types of ascensions with players like Troy [Franklin]," Payton said.
That ascension was on full display on Saturday night, as Franklin tied for a team-high in receptions and added a pair of touchdowns in an impressive first half. Franklin finished his night with four catches for 67 yards and two scores, including a contested back-shoulder catch to haul in his second touchdown of the evening.
"It's happening, and I'm excited," Payton said after the game. "I think we've just got to be smart because he's playing two spots, but he's … had a really good camp. He's confident. I've said this a bunch of times; it has to happen on the field, and you guys that have covered this team or any other team, you see it in the preseason every year. Some players begin to make some plays, and it carries over.
"So, that's why these games are important. Obviously, it's challenging when you're not going to play your starting group, but when you see growth like that, and every year we don't know who those players are going to be, but he played well tonight."
A year ago, Franklin showed his potential with his downfield speed. On several occasions, he broke away from opposing defenses to give himself a chance to haul in a deep pass. In Denver's playoff matchup with the Bills, quarterback Bo Nix found Franklin on a shot play to give Denver an early lead.
In Year 2, though, Franklin seems poised to contribute in more ways. He still showed his ability to zoom past the defense at several times during training camp, but his route tree and contributions have been far more diverse.
"I think I'm just more comfortable," Franklin said. "I've got a little bit more freedom to go out there and just play."
Franklin's teammates have seen that progression, as well.
"I feel his confidence every day," tight end Evan Engram said. "He's been working his butt off. … You can tell he really cares about his game. He really cares about chasing improvement. The confidence is a big part too. It's really evident he's going to have a big year."
Added quarterback Jarrett Stidham: "It's hard to put into words, because he has grown so much since last year. And you can tell, he's playing with so much confidence right now. I think he's going to help our offense in a really big way, and I know the guys in our [quarterback] room, we're really excited about that and we're looking forward to it."
In three weeks, Franklin will be back at Empower Field at Mile High for the Broncos' home opener against the Titans. On this Saturday night, he showed a glimpse of what may be possible.
