Last season, Vele worked as the Broncos’ second-most used receiver — behind only Courtland Sutton. As Franklin and Marvin Mims struggled with inconsistency, Vele logged a 53% snap share. The Utah product caught 41 passes for 475 yards and three touchdowns as a rookie.

Aug 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Jordan Turner (55) celebrates his sack with defensive tackle Jordan Miller (90) in the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at Empower Field at Mile High. / Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Plus which undrafted rookies might crack the 53, the offensive line, just how high Kris Abrams-Draine can climb on the depth chart and much more.

On Wednesday, the Denver Broncos announced they agreed to send second-year wide receiver Devaughn Vele to the Saints for a 2026 fourth-rounder and a 2027 seventh-rounder. Payton (now the HC of the Broncos) probably feels he won this deal.

On this episode of "Broncos in 60," Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph talks about the impact inside linebacker Alex Singleton has on the team, while Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi shares his impressions of tight end Evan Engram and more.

What a difference a year makes. At this point last summer, some Denver Broncos fans were discussing whether fifth-round draft pick Audric Estime would eventually take over as the starting running back. Now there's no guarantee he'll make the team.

Sean Payton is Loving What he's Seen From Troy Franklin in Denver Broncos' Preseason originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi recently said that the competition is tight, according to DNVR's Zac Stevens. As of now, it looks like J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey are the top two choices for the starting position, but there's a good chance they will end up splitting the carries.