New Denver Broncos tight end Evan Engram sure found a way to make "NFL history in such a random way" as NBC 9 News sports reporter Scotty Gange put it.
Engram, who signed with the team on Thursday, was photographed with a No. 1 Broncos jersey that has his name on it, which Gange highlighted on Friday. As DNVR sports reporter Henry Chisholm pointed out, that hasn't happened with a tight end "in at least 51 years" of NFL history.
"No tight end has worn No. 1 in the five years since the NFL changed its jersey number rules, which had stood (with a few tweaks) since 1973," Chisholm wrote on X.com on Thursday. "That means Evan Engram is the first tight end to wear No. 1 in at least 51 years."
Engram, who wore No. 17 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, needed a new number since Broncos wide receiver Devaughn Vele already took that number. Previously, Engram has worn No. 88 with the New York Giants, where he began his pro career in 2017 as a first-round draft pick out of Ole Miss.
While Engram's jersey decision could have an impact on the fan base with jersey sales, his on-field play could make a difference for the Broncos this fall. Engram has a career average of 78 catches for 775 yards and four touchdowns per 17-game season.
"I think Evan's going to be great on the Broncos this year, but regardless of how the dude plays, he's already a legendary tight end," Gange said.
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This story was originally published March 14, 2025 at 6:30 PM.