The Denver Broncos rookie making the biggest impact this summer isn’t first-round pick Bo Nix but receiver DeVaughn Vele, a seventh-round selection from the University of Utah. Vele’s standout moment has been a spectacular one-handed catch during training camp.
Vele is different from most rookies—he’ll turn 27 in December—so the 235th pick in the 2024 NFL draft feels a sense of urgency to prove himself quickly.
“I feel like I have a little chip on my shoulder to perform better because I don’t have the luxury of time to develop and be the guy who’ll shine in a few years,” Vele said Wednesday. “I need to contribute as much as I can right now.”
He has quickly made a name for himself in a competitive receiving group that includes returning players like Courtland Sutton, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, Marvin Mims Jr., and Brandon Johnson, as well as new additions such as free agent Josh Reynolds, fourth-round pick Tony Franklin, and veteran Tim Patrick, who is recovering from two season-ending leg injuries.
Vele’s journey to the NFL has been lengthy.
He delayed college to complete a two-year Mormon mission in Samoa. After that, he redshirted his first year at Utah, and his 2020 season was affected by the pandemic. Over the last three seasons, he started 38 games for the Utes, amassing 123 catches for 1,677 yards and nine touchdowns.
Despite his impressive size at 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds, his age caused him to drop to the seventh round in April’s draft. In fact, Vele and Denver defensive end Zach Allen, who is entering his sixth NFL season, are the same age.
“He’s certainly come in and acted more like someone with experience rather than a rookie,” said right tackle Mike McGlinchey. “He’s done an excellent job, making plays all over the field, and we’re very excited about him.”
Coach Sean Payton believes Vele’s maturity is a benefit.
“He’s smart and older than most rookies. You don’t really feel like he’s a rookie because he’s a bit older than most in his draft class,” Payton said.
