Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos

In the NFL, rookies often face a steep learning curve—adjusting to faster defenses, more complex playbooks, and the physicality of professional football. But for Troy Franklin, the Denver Broncos’ 2025 second-round draft pick out of Oregon, that curve has been far less daunting. Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos isn’t just a observation; it’s a testament to his work ethic, football IQ, and ability to absorb feedback—qualities that have made him a rising star in the Broncos’ offense just months into his career. From his standout preseason to his impactful early regular-season reps, Franklin has proven he’s not just keeping up with the NFL pace—he’s ahead of it.

Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos began during his first off-season with the team, where he approached every practice and meeting with a rookie’s humility but a veteran’s focus. Unlike many rookies who need extra time to memorize the playbook, Franklin mastered the Broncos’ offensive scheme in just six weeks, impressing coaches with his ability to recall routes, adjustments, and defensive coverages on the fly. He spent hours after practice working with quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jarrett Stidham, refining his timing on deep passes and perfecting his route cuts to create separation from defenders. “Troy doesn’t just show up—he shows up prepared,” said Broncos wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni. “He’ll come to meetings with notes on opposing cornerbacks, ask questions about how to beat press coverage, and stay late to review film. That kind of dedication speeds up development exponentially.” By the start of training camp, Franklin was already rotating with the first-team offense—a rare feat for a second-round wide receiver—and making plays that turned heads, including a 45-yard touchdown catch from Wilson in the team’s first scrimmage.

Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos was on full display during the 2025 preseason, where he emerged as one of the team’s most consistent playmakers. In three preseason games, Franklin caught 12 passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Broncos in all three categories. His standout performance came in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals, where he hauled in five catches for 92 yards, including a 30-yard touchdown in the third quarter that showcased his speed (he ran a 4.39 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) and ability to track deep balls. What impressed coaches most, however, wasn’t just the stats—it was his composure in high-pressure situations. On a third-and-10 play in the fourth quarter, Franklin faced tight coverage from Cardinals cornerback Marco Wilson but adjusted his route mid-play, creating just enough separation to make a 15-yard catch that extended a game-winning drive. “Preseason is where rookies either sink or swim, and Troy’s swimming laps around the pool,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton after the game. “He’s not just making catches—he’s making the kind of plays that win games. That’s rare for a rookie this early.”

Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos has been accelerated by the mentorship of veteran wide receivers on the roster, who’ve taken him under their wing and shared the secrets of NFL success. Veteran Jerry Jeudy—who’s entering his sixth season with the Broncos—has spent countless hours working with Franklin on route-running precision, teaching him how to use subtle body language to deceive defenders and create space. During one post-practice session, Jeudy broke down film of Franklin’s routes, pointing out how a slight lean to the inside could force a cornerback to overcommit, opening up an outside cut. “When I was a rookie, I had guys who helped me, so I feel like it’s my job to do the same for Troy,” Jeudy said. “What’s special about him is he listens—he doesn’t just nod his head and walk away. He takes what you say, practices it, and then comes back asking how to get better.” The Denver Broncos’ leadership has also leaned into this mentorship, pairing Franklin with Jeudy for off-field activities like community events and team dinners to build chemistry that translates to the field. The result? By Week 1 of the regular season, Franklin and Jeudy were already operating like a seasoned duo, combining for 12 catches and 150 yards in the Broncos’ win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos is also evident in his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the offense, not just as a pass-catcher. Coaches have been impressed by his willingness to block—an often-overlooked skill for wide receivers—and his ability to make plays on special teams. In the Broncos’ Week 3 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Franklin threw a key block on a Javonte Williams 20-yard rushing touchdown, using his strength (he bench-pressed 225 pounds 18 times at the Combine) to take out two Chiefs defenders. On special teams, he’s become a regular on the kickoff return unit, using his speed to create lanes for returners and even recovering a fumble in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Chargers. “We drafted Troy because we saw a versatile player who could help us in more ways than one,” said Broncos general manager George Paton. “He’s exceeded our expectations by embracing every role we give him—whether it’s catching touchdowns, blocking for runners, or making plays on special teams. That kind of versatility is invaluable in the NFL.” The Denver Broncos’ offensive game plan has begun to reflect this, with Franklin seeing snaps in three-receiver sets, two-tight end formations, and even as a occasional wildcat quarterback—a role he played briefly in college at Oregon.

Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos isn’t just a story of individual success; it’s a boost to the Broncos’ long-term offensive goals. With Wilson entering the later stages of his career, the Broncos have been focused on building a young core of playmakers who can keep the offense competitive for years to come. Franklin, along with second-year running back Jaleel McLaughlin and rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, represents that core—a group of young players who are growing together and forming chemistry with Wilson. Through the first four weeks of the 2025 season, Franklin has caught 21 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns, already establishing himself as Wilson’s second-favorite target behind Jeudy. “Troy is a big part of our future,” Wilson said after a Week 4 win over the Cleveland Browns. “He’s got the talent, the work ethic, and the mindset to be a star in this league. Every week, he gets better, and that makes our offense better too.” For Franklin, the fast development is just the beginning. “I’m not here to just be a rookie—I’m here to help the Broncos win,” he said. “Every day, I try to get a little better, learn a little more, and contribute in any way I can. This team has given me a chance, and I don’t want to let them down.” In the end, Troy Franklin Developing Fast with the Denver Broncos is a reminder of what happens when talent meets dedication—a young player rising to the occasion, a team gaining a future star, and a fanbase getting excited about what’s to come.