The chance to play for the Denver Broncos has special meaning for tight ends Terrance Ferguson and Gunnar Helm. For these Colorado natives, representing the team they grew up cheering for would bring their football journeys full circle.

Ferguson played at Cherry Creek High School, where he was part of a team that won back-to-back state championships. He was also recognized as an All-State player. Helm played at Heritage High School, where he would earn player of the year honors twice.

Helm, who would take his talents to Texas, enjoyed a standout final season with 60 receptions, 786 yards, and seven touchdowns.

“I did grow up a Broncos fan,” Helm said during his NFL Combine interview. “I was a 20-minute drive from downtown Denver, grew up going to a lot of games, grew up going to Dove Valley for some camp practices. It was definitely a dream come true.”

Ferguson’s connection to Denver extends beyond just being a hometown product. He spent the 2023 season catching passes from Bo Nix at Oregon.

“Bo’s one of my best friends, and I still keep up with him today,” Ferguson said. “To be able to be with a guy that you played with before and a great guy like that, it’d be amazing.”

Not only does Ferguson have the tie to Nix, but he also has a tie to head coach Sean Payton as well. Growing up, Ferguson says he grew up around both Broncos and New Orleans Saints fans.

“Growing up, I watched the Broncos and being able to be in the room with those guys and the head coach, [Head] Coach Sean Payton [was exciting],” Ferguson said on his combine meeting with the Broncos. “… I also grew up with Saints fans, so it was kind of a surreal moment for me. Just a true blessing.”

In 2024, Ferguson set school records for career receptions (134) and receiving touchdowns (16) by a tight end. He also finished just 20 yards shy of Ed Dickson’s school tight end record for career receiving yards (1,557).

During the pre-draft process, Ferguson said Nix has been in close contact with him. Nix has told him to take things “day by day” and reminded him that he’s earned his place among NFL prospects.

As the Broncos continue evaluating tight end prospects at the combine, these two Colorado products remain intriguing options. With Denver looking to strengthen their tight end room, the potential reunion between these local talents and their childhood team adds an intriguing storyline to watch as the NFL Draft approaches.