Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton praises Troy Franklin: ‘We feel his speed’

Troy Franklin’s speed was on display during training camp on Tuesday.

The Denver Broncos’ rookie wide receiver caught a 50-yard touchdown pass from Zach Wilson during seven-on-seven drills. Franklin, who posted a time of 4.41 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting combine, confirmed what everyone already knew – he’s fast.

Franklin’s touchdown catch caught Denver coach Sean Payton’s eye and he has liked what he has seen from the former Oregon Ducks’ star during camp.

“He’s doing well. He picks things up well,” Payton told reporters Monday. “We all see his speed, and we feel his speed. Like the rest of the rookies, [they] have these glimpses or these moments where they are gaining confidence. He had a nice play today, and he’s doing well.”

Possessing speed is nice, but Franklin knows he needs to add more elements to his game to become an elite wide receiver. Some scouts questioned his route-running skills prior to the draft and he’s been working diligently on improving that aspect during offseason workouts and training camp.

“It just helps my game even more, being a technician and then having the speed. Those are two lethal combos,” Franklin told Aric DiLalla of denverbroncos.com. “Right now, I’m just trying to make sure my technique’s down and [that] I’m not just using my speed to my advantage.”

The Broncos traded up to select Franklin in the fourth round (No. 102) of the 2024 NFL draft. Many evaluators were surprised Franklin dropped to the fourth round and say the Broncos may have gotten a steal. Franklin is eager to prove the Broncos made a good decision when they face the Indianapolis Colts in their first preseason game on Sunday.

“I can’t wait to get out there and show what I can do,” Franklin said.