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The Denver Broncos enter this year’s training camp with a roster boasting youth, speed, and untapped potential. For a franchise navigating roster turnover and a competitive AFC West, breakout performances in August could influence roster decisions, depth chart battles, and even the team’s long-term strategy.
While some names are already familiar to fans, others have quietly developed their skills, waiting for the right moment to make the leap. Training camp offers a crucible for that transformation, combining live reps, coaching adjustments, and competition for scarce snaps.
This season, Denver’s mix of promising rookies, second-year players, and strategic additions gives the team several candidates to watch closely. Here’s a look at the players who could turn heads and cement bigger roles by the time Week 1 arrives.
Marvin Mims Jr.: Expanding Beyond Special Teams
Marvin Mims Jr. already holds a résumé that includes Pro Bowl nods and All-Pro honors as a returner, but his offensive ceiling remains largely untapped. Last year, head coach Sean Payton began integrating Mims into gadget plays and vertical concepts, maximizing his open-field burst.
Entering camp, the focus shifts to refining his route tree and building consistency as a downfield threat. For fans tracking Denver Broncos odds, Mims’ growth into a more prominent offensive role could meaningfully shift expectations.
If he can translate his late-season chemistry with the quarterback into sustained production, he could emerge as a reliable WR2 (if not a primary target) in Payton’s system.
Training camp offers him an extended runway to prove he can win against press coverage and handle a heavier target load. His special teams impact is secure, but a stronger offensive role would amplify his value and change defensive game-planning.
R.J. Harvey: A Rookie Built for Payton’s Offense
R.J. Harvey arrives in Denver with expectations shaped by his fit in a role Sean Payton has perfected – the versatile, pass-catching back. Modeled after Alvin Kamara’s usage, Harvey’s agility and quick acceleration make him dangerous in space, especially on option routes and screens.
While the non-padded nature of early practices limits evaluation of his rushing vision, his receiving skills can shine immediately.
The Broncos’ depth at running back makes his path to touches competitive, but Payton’s track record of maximizing multi-dimensional backs suggests Harvey could see meaningful snaps early.
A strong camp showing in route precision, blitz pickup, and ball security could fast-track him into situational packages. In an offense seeking more dynamic mismatches, Harvey’s breakout potential hinges on making the most of these camp opportunities.
Troy Franklin: Building on Explosive Potential
Troy Franklin enters camp as one of Denver’s most intriguing second-year receivers. His rookie flashes, particularly as a deep threat, align well with Payton’s willingness to stretch defenses vertically.
Franklin’s offseason work reportedly added muscle without sacrificing his quick-twitch agility, a combination that could enhance his contested-catch success. The challenge will be carving a consistent role amid a crowded receiver room featuring Courtland Sutton, Mims, and emerging talents like Pat Bryant.
Franklin’s prior chemistry with quarterback Bo Nix from their Oregon days could prove valuable in tight competitions for snaps. If he can showcase reliability on intermediate routes while maintaining his big-play ability, Franklin could shift from a rotational piece to a weekly contributor.
Training camp will be the proving ground for whether his highlight-reel plays become routine.
Caleb Lohner: A Red Zone Wildcard
Caleb Lohner represents one of the more unconventional breakout candidates—a former basketball standout transitioning to tight end. At 6’7” and 250 pounds, with above-average straight-line speed, he profiles as a mismatch in red zone situations.
Comparisons to Jimmy Graham are ambitious but not unfounded, given Lohner’s ability to high-point the football and shield defenders.
His development will hinge on mastering blocking assignments and route timing, areas that often challenge position converts. Early in camp, expect his standout moments to come in situational drills focused on end-zone efficiency.
If he earns trust as a reliable target inside the 20, Lohner could secure a situational role even as his all-around game develops. His unique skill set gives Denver an offensive wrinkle that defenses must account for.
Que Robinson: Depth with Disruptive Upside
Rookie edge rusher Que Robinson’s name surfaced frequently during offseason workouts, thanks to his burst off the line and natural bend.
While primarily known for special teams prowess, Robinson’s pass-rush flashes have drawn attention in a rotation that could see changes due to expiring contracts. His early matchups in camp will pit him against reserve tackles, offering a platform to dominate before earning reps against starters.
The key will be translating non-padded explosiveness into production once contact becomes live. Denver’s depth at edge allows Robinson to develop without immediate pressure, but a strong camp could position him as a rotational disruptor.
In a division featuring elite quarterbacks, any additional pass-rush depth is a strategic asset.
Jahdae Barron: Immediate Impact in the Secondary
First-round pick Jahdae Barron enters camp with expectations of contributing from Day 1. Praised for his quick mental processing and adaptability, Barron is projected to line up both outside and in the slot, giving Denver flexibility in coverage schemes. His challenge will be adjusting to NFL route combinations and maintaining discipline against double moves.
With a talented defensive backfield already in place, Barron’s performance in camp could determine how aggressive the Broncos can be in disguising coverages.
Early reps against Denver’s varied receiver group will accelerate his acclimation. If he can consistently disrupt timing and close quickly on underneath routes, Barron could elevate an already solid secondary into one of the league’s more versatile units.
How Breakouts Could Shape Denver’s 2025 Trajectory
Breakout performances in training camp do more than fill highlight reels; they influence game plans, contract decisions, and the team’s competitive identity.
For the Broncos, a strong showing from players like Mims, Harvey, and Barron could accelerate the team’s shift toward a faster, more flexible roster. Depth players transforming into contributors allow coaches to diversify schemes and adapt mid-season.
These developments also ripple into front-office strategy, clarifying where investments are needed and where internal talent can fill gaps.
As the AFC West remains one of football’s toughest divisions, Denver’s margin for error is slim. The players emerging in August could be the same ones deciding close games in December, making this camp a pivotal chapter in the team’s 2025 ambitions.
* Content reflects information available as of 2025/08/11; subject to change.
