Devaughn Vele is quietly emerging as a key wide receiver for the Denver Broncos.
Through seven games this season, the 26-year-old rookie out of Utah has totaled 26 receptions for 281 yards, 14 first downs and one touchdown. He has seemingly emerged as quarterback Bo Nix’s second-favorite target behind Courtland Sutton in recent weeks.
“I think part of what was holding Devaughn Vele back was us,” coach Sean Payton said after the team’s win against the Atlanta Falcons. “In other words, Josh [Reynolds] was getting a lot of reps. It’s sometimes just giving the player more opportunities. I think one of the things he does well for someone who’s 6-4, he’s low cut.
“He has these like 32-inch inseams and a long torso. So when he comes out of his breaks, you don’t feel a leggy player. You feel a sudden player, and that’s a good trait for a tall receiver. Then the other things is he has extremely strong hands in traffic. He just keeps improving, but part of that is he’s getting more opportunities.”
Devaughn Vele has been lights out for the Broncos on 3rd downs converting 8/9 targets into first downs. I’m excited to watch these two build on their chemistry for the rest of the season. pic.twitter.com/TyEZbu8gqB
— Frankie Abbott (@FrankiesFilm) November 21, 2024
Reynolds is eligible to return from injured reserve this week, but Vele seems poised to continue getting snaps after making the most of his opportunities while Reynolds was sidelined.
“I was just talking with Vele and I am so happy for him,” Sutton said. “When you see the young guys, especially a rookie, make that stride, you can see the writing on the wall of the opportunity being there. It’s all about stepping up to the challenge. Watching him these past couple of weeks step up to the challenge of becoming that guy on the other side, it’s been a lot of fun.
“His future is bright. It’s so early for him. We talk about it all the time, but for me, making my transition into this vet role in the room, it’s cool to be able to see the young guys step up to that role and have the success that he’s having right now.”
Denver’s top receivers have been Sutton, Vele and Lil’Jordan Humphrey during Reynolds’ absence. Following Vele’s emergence, Humphrey might be the odd man out in the rotation when Reynolds returns.
