The Denver Broncos enter Week 2 with their revamped offense under the spotlight. One of the biggest questions during the buildup to Sunday’s matchup against the Indianapolis Colts centered on tight end Evan Engram and whether he would be available after appearing on the injury report.
Is Evan Engram Playing in Week 2?
The answer came on Friday when Denver released its final injury report. Engram was removed entirely and carries no designation for Sunday. After being limited earlier in the week, he practiced fully and is set to play against the Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Engram’s return steadies Denver’s offense, which is still finding its rhythm under Sean Payton and rookie quarterback Bo Nix. The 31-year-old tight end is coming off a modest opener in which he logged three catches for 26 yards, but his role as a matchup weapon remains firmly intact.
“He’s gonna be one of those matchups we want to take advantage of”
Sean Payton on getting Evan Engram more touches 👀 pic.twitter.com/BZj0uy0W97
— DNVR Broncos (@DNVR_Broncos) September 12, 2025
Head coach Sean Payton emphasized Engram’s importance when asked about his usage. “I think we always look at all our touches,” Payton told reporters on Sept. 12. “When you put plays in, there’s a primary — like there are some ways where you can get him a touch, or you think you can. And so … he’s going to be one of those matchups that we want to take advantage of.”
What Evan Engram’s Availability Means for the Broncos
With Engram cleared, Denver has its full tight end group available. That stability gives Nix another reliable target on short-to-intermediate routes, particularly in red-zone and third-down scenarios where Engram has traditionally thrived.
The Broncos’ offense is built around balance, with Javonte Williams expected to lead the backfield rotation and second-year receiver Troy Franklin working opposite Courtland Sutton. Engram’s ability to stress linebackers and safeties helps open lanes for both Franklin and Sutton on the outside, while also creating mismatches over the middle. Tight end depth with Lucas Krull and others gives Denver options for multiple-TE looks.
Defensively, Denver faces an Indianapolis team built around young quarterback Anthony Richardson, whose dual-threat ability forces opponents to stay disciplined. Richardson leans heavily on running back Jonathan Taylor and wideout Michael Pittman Jr., putting the Broncos’ linebackers and secondary to the test.
Kickoff is Sunday, Sept. 14, at 4:05 p.m. ET from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The game airs on CBS and streams on Paramount+ (market dependent), with out-of-market streaming available via NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV.
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With Engram officially cleared, the Broncos avoid a significant offensive hole heading into Week 2. His presence ensures Nix has a trusted safety valve against an aggressive Colts defense, setting the stage for a critical early-season matchup between two AFC teams looking to solidify playoff aspirations.