Initial expectations and projections for K.J. Hamler with the Broncos in 2020

DENVER — John Elway’s quest to add explosiveness to Denver’s offense didn’t stop after landing a two-time Pro Bowl running back in free agency and an All-American receiver in the first round of the draft. In the second round, Elway turned around and grabbed one of the fastest, if not the fastest, receivers in the 2020 draft class with the 46th-overall pick.

While K.J. Hamler wasn’t able to run the 40-yard dash at the combine due to a hamstring injury which is now healed, many — including himself, Vic Fangio and his new teammate Albert Okwuegbunam — believe he has sub-4.3 speed. That’s the type of explosiveness and speed Elway and the Broncos were looking to add to the offensive side of the ball this offseason.

But will that speed translate immediately to the NFL?

Here’s what to expect from the second-round receiver in 2020 as a rookie.

Projections for 2020: 48 receptions; 592 receiving yards; 6 TDs; 26 receptions for a first down

Hamler is certainly capable of putting up bigger numbers due to his talent and the pass-friendly offense he’ll be in under Pat Shurmur. But it’s also important to remember that this would be an impressive season for a rookie receiver.

In fact, it’s not uncommon for rookie receivers to be boom or bust. Just last year, seven receivers were taken in the second round. Four of them — Deebo Samuel, A.J. Brown, Mecole Harman and D.K. Metcalf — had tremendous seasons. All four eclipsed 500 receiving yards, with all but Hardman going over 800.

However, on the other hand, J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, Parris Campbell and Andy Isabella — the other three second-round receivers — had totally forgettable years with not a single one eclipsing 200 receiving yards.

Fortunately for Hamler, he has many things going his way to be closer to the boom than the bust. Shurmur’s offense will incorporate three receivers on the field more often than not, allowing Hamler to have ample playing time.

Additionally, the 5-foot-9 speedster has rare speed, which will allow him to break out for big plays. Finally, Hamler will be the third or even fourth receiving option for opposing teams to key in on, which could allow him to have more success than other rookie receivers that garner more attention.

In the past few years, receivers similar to Hamler’s skillset have had similar numbers to those projected for the Penn State rookie. Marquise Brown, Mecole Harman and Tyreek Hill averaged 44 receptions for 572 yards and six touchdowns during their rookie season. There’s no reason Denver’s second-round pick won’t be able to have similar success.