Broncos opted to keep draft capitol over acquiring proven NFL playmaker as the trade deadline passed on Tuesday

Denver will roll with what it has for the rest of the season.

Nick Roesch NFL Trending News Writer
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) scores a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) scores a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons © Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The NFL trade deadline has come and gone, and the Denver Broncos opted not to make a deal.

Denver is currently in good shape with a 7-2 record, leading the AFC West by one game over the Los Angeles Chargers and two games over the Kansas City Chiefs. The Broncos did their due diligence too see if making an acquisition made sense, particularly at the wide receiver position, but ultimately decided not to force anything.

Broncos had interest in trading for Miami Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle

According to a report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Denver inquired about Waddle’s availability, but the Dolphins asking price was too high.

Waddle’s speed and proven NFL production would have certainly been a great addition to the Broncos’ offense, but we don’t know what Miami was asking for in return. With no deal getting done, here is where Denver stands with its draft capitol in 2026.

  • Round 1: Own pick
  • Round 2: Own pick
  • Round 3: Own pick
  • Round 4: New Orleans Saints pick (WR Devaughn Vele trade)
  • Round 4: Own pick
  • Round 5: Own pick
  • Round 7: Own pick
  • Round 7: Projected comp pick (RB Javonte Williams)

The Broncos will continue to lean on wide receivers Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, and Marvin Mims Jr. to make plays in the passing game. Rookie Pat Bryant has also come on as of late, as has rookie running back RJ Harvey.

Denver has two big divisional games against the Las Vegas Raiders and Chiefs before hitting the bye week. Winning both of those matchups would put the Broncos is excellent shape to win AFC West for the first time since 2015.

Even if the Broncos come up short securing the a division title, they would really have to crumble down the stretch to miss the playoffs. With as well as their defense is playing and quarterback Bo Nix’s continued development, they have all the qualities you want for playing postseason football.