Denver made a surprising move during the draft by selecting tight end Dallen Bentley in the seventh round, pick No. 256. Bentley, who had a standout sea...
Denver made a surprising move during the draft by selecting tight end Dallen Bentley in the seventh round, pick No. 256. Bentley, who had a standout season at Utah with 48 catches for 620 yards and six touchdowns, took an unconventional path to the NFL.
Starting his journey as a walk-on at Snow Junior College, Bentley’s talent quickly emerged, earning him a spot as a second-team JUCO All-American. His transfer to Utah saw limited playing time until his senior year when he transitioned from a blocking role to a prominent pass-catching position.
Reflecting on his draft selection, Bentley expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized his commitment to continuous improvement. His addition to the Broncos’ roster alongside tight end Justin Joly signals a strategic move to enhance the team’s offensive options, particularly supporting quarterback Bo Nix.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, Bentley possesses a versatile skill set suitable for both receiving and blocking duties. Despite being a seventh-round pick, Bentley remains determined to make a significant impact and prove his capabilities in a crowded tight end room.
Utah Connection in Denver
Bentley’s transition to the Broncos further strengthens the connection between Utah and Denver, with several former Utes already part of the team’s roster. The shared grit and style of play exhibited by Utah players have garnered attention from NFL teams, particularly the Broncos.
Notably, Bentley’s journey mirrors that of OT Garett Bolles, LB Jonah Elliss, TE Caleb Lohner, and LB Karene Reid, who all previously represented Utah. The distinct character of Utah players resonates well with the Broncos’ ethos, making Bentley’s arrival a seamless addition to the team.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the competitive environment in the tight end room, Bentley remains optimistic about his prospects and acknowledges the inherent challenges as a late-round pick. His relentless work ethic and determination to seize every opportunity reflect the underdog spirit that has defined his career thus far.
Coach Sean Payton’s endorsement of Bentley’s abilities as an inline tight end highlights the team’s confidence in his potential impact on the field. As Bentley prepares to embark on this new chapter with the Broncos, he remains grounded, appreciative of the chance to contribute to Broncos Country.
Source of the article: gazette.com