Adam Trautman

Adam Trautman, a prominent figure in American Football, was born on February 5, 1997. He has become a professional in his craft as a tight end player for the Denver Broncos, one of the most reputable teams in the National Football League (NFL).

Before stepping onto the professional stage, Trautman was a standout player at the collegiate level, where he played football at the University of Dayton. He caught the attention of NFL teams and eventually was picked by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

But before his collegiate and professional success, his early life was rooted in Williamsburg, Michigan. In his pre-collegiate years, he attended Elk Rapids High School where he demonstrated his athleticism and versatility by excelling in both basketball and football. A proficient player, Trautman was an All-County selection in both sports. As a senior, he showcased his leadership and skills, setting every significant school passing record and earning the title of the Lake Michigan Conference Player of the Year.

In college, Trautman found his true calling on the football field, albeit in a different position than he played in high school. After redshirting his freshman season, he shifted from quarterback to tight end. As a redshirt freshman, he recorded 24 receptions over 238 yards and scored three touchdowns. He continued to improve in his sophomore year, catching 43 passes for 537 yards and five touchdowns, earning him a spot on the All-Pioneer Football League’s second team.

His junior year saw Trautman lead his team with 41 receptions, 604 yards, and nine touchdowns, earning him yet another All-PFL second-team honor. But his most remarkable season came in his senior year. He caught an awe-inspiring 70 passes for 916 yards and 14 touchdowns, receiving the PFL Offensive Player of the Year award and the first-team All-PFL recognition. In total, Trautman completed his collegiate career with impressive stats, including 171 receptions, 2295 yards, and 31 touchdowns.

In 2020, Trautman showcased his skills at the Senior Bowl, further impressing scouts and securing his draft position with the New Orleans Saints that year. Being the first Dayton football player drafted since Bill Westbeld in 1977, he was selected with the 105th overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

His professional journey began with a remarkable debut in September 2020. Trautman became the first Dayton player to appear in an NFL game in 45 years. He caught a 17-yard pass from legendary QB Drew Brees for his first career reception on Monday Night Football. His rookie season was successful, receiving 15 out of 16 targets for 171 yards and scoring one touchdown. He was rated as the best rookie tight end and the best run-blocking tight end in the NFL by Pro Football Focus.

Trautman’s journey took a new turn when he was named the starting tight end for the Saints in 2021 following the release of Jared Cook. However, a brief setback came when he was placed on injured reserve in November of that year. Despite this, he returned to action in December.

An unexpected shift came in April 2023 when Trautman was traded to the Denver Broncos. He was honored with the position of starting tight end and committed to the new challenge. In 17 games, he started 12 and recorded 22 catches for 204 yards and three touchdowns.

Trautman’s hard work and dedication paid off when he signed a two-year contract extension with the Broncos in March 2024. Even with the significant milestones he has achieved, Trautman continues to pave a successful path in his professional football career.