After selecting Oregon quarterback Bo Nix in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos used a fourth-round pick to draft his favorite receiver, Troy Franklin.
Franklin, standing at 6-2 and weighing 176 pounds, boasts a 4.41-second 40-yard dash. His size and speed fit the Broncos’ preference for an outside receiver, but his versatility to move around the field is an added advantage. Playing with Nix in college is a bonus.
“We see him as an outside ‘Z,’” Payton said of Franklin’s position post-draft. “He has really good speed and impressed us at the line of scrimmage. We saw him at the combine and at Bo’s private workout. This draft unfolded in a unique way, and he was a high-graded player available at that spot.”
The Broncos traded up to the top of the fourth round to secure Franklin on Day 3 of the draft.
“He is quick out of his cuts,” Payton added. “Some players struggle against bump and run, but he excels with his quick feet and speed. George [Paton] and I noticed his impact while watching Bo. Our scouts and coaches rated him highly.”
Franklin averaged 17.1 yards per reception in his final season with the Ducks, excelling in yards after the catch, a valuable asset for Denver’s offense.
“Yes, especially in the fourth round,” Payton said during rookie minicamp. “He can run, as seen today. He’s eager to learn and excited. He’ll play both inside and outside the numbers. We’re looking forward to working with him.”
Franklin, 21, will participate in mandatory minicamp next week before a summer break. He and his teammates will return for training camp in late July, followed by preseason in August. Fans will see Franklin in action against the Indianapolis Colts on Aug. 11.
