The Denver Broncos are deep in the hunt this season, with their eyes on a potential AFC crown and a long-awaited division title-their first since 2015. But while the focus in Denver remains firmly on the playoff push, the front office is already working behind the scenes, laying the groundwork for what comes next. Because in the NFL, building a contender isn’t just about this season-it’s about sustaining success.
With around $40 million in projected cap space for 2026 (and likely more to come as contracts shift and cuts are made), the Broncos will have the financial flexibility to shop aggressively in free agency. That’s a big deal for a team already trending upward under Sean Payton. Adding the right pieces could push this roster from playoff-caliber to legitimate Super Bowl threat.
Let’s take a look at four offensive free agents who could be strong fits in Denver next season-and why each one could help elevate the Broncos to the next level.
Rico Dowdle, RB - A Physical Backfield Presence
Rico Dowdle flew under the radar last offseason before signing a one-year deal with the Panthers, but he’s made a name for himself in Carolina. With 929 rushing yards already this season, he’s clearly outperformed expectations-and outpaced Chuba Hubbard, who opened the year as the presumed starter.
Dowdle’s game is built for AFC West football. He’s a physical, between-the-tackles runner who thrives on contact and doesn’t shy away from the dirty yards.
If the Broncos decide not to bring back J.K. Dobbins, Dowdle would be a natural fit to anchor the ground game alongside Javonte Williams or another complementary back.
Now, there’s always the hometown factor to consider-Dowdle is a South Carolina native and may be inclined to stay with the Panthers-but if he hits the open market, Denver should at least make the call. He brings toughness, production, and a downhill style that would mesh well with Payton’s offensive philosophy.
Rasheed Shaheed, WR - A True Vertical Threat
Speed kills, and Rasheed Shaheed has plenty of it. The Seahawks gave up fourth- and fifth-round picks to acquire him from New Orleans at the trade deadline, but so far, the results have been underwhelming-just eight catches in five games.
That might make him a short-term rental in Seattle, and if he’s available this spring, he’s the kind of player who could open up Denver’s offense in a big way. Marvin Mims Jr. and Troy Franklin both have deep-ball potential, but the Broncos haven’t consistently connected downfield-largely due to Bo Nix’s struggles with deep accuracy.
Shaheed could change that. He’s a legitimate burner who forces defenses to account for him on every snap.
Even when he’s not catching the ball, he stretches the field vertically, opening up space underneath for guys like Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy (if they’re still in the picture). For a quarterback like Nix, who’s still developing his deep ball, having a receiver who can create separation with pure speed could make all the difference.
Kyle Pitts, TE - A High-Upside Gamble Worth Considering
Kyle Pitts is one of the most intriguing potential free agents on the market. Drafted No. 4 overall in 2021-the highest a tight end has ever gone-he came into the league with sky-high expectations. And while his production hasn’t always matched the hype, the talent is still there.
Just look at his recent three-touchdown performance against Tampa Bay. That kind of breakout game is a reminder of what Pitts can do when he’s put in the right system.
He’s only 25 years old, and his athletic profile is still unmatched at the position. If he hits free agency, there will be no shortage of suitors.
The Broncos, meanwhile, have some decisions to make at tight end. Evan Engram has been a steady presence, but he’ll turn 32 next season.
Adam Trautman and Lucas Krull are both pending free agents. Pitts would represent a major upgrade-and a long-term investment.
In Sean Payton’s offense, which has historically leaned on versatile tight ends (think Jimmy Graham in New Orleans), Pitts could finally find the role he was built for. He’s projected to command around $11 million per year, but if Denver believes he’s the missing piece, that’s a price worth paying.
Alijah Vera-Tucker, OT - A Versatile Lineman with Upside
The Broncos’ offensive line has quietly been one of the most improved units in the league this season, and that’s with starting guard Ben Powers dealing with injuries. But there’s still room to tweak things-especially at right tackle.
Mike McGlinchey hasn’t been a disaster, but he also hasn’t lived up to the five-year, $87.5 million deal he signed in 2023. With a potential out in his contract after this season (and a far more manageable $15 million dead cap hit), the Broncos could choose to move on.
Enter Alijah Vera-Tucker. He’s the kind of lineman every coach loves-versatile, athletic, and capable of playing multiple spots along the line. Whether Denver wants to plug him in at right tackle or slide him inside to guard, he brings flexibility and youth to a position group that could use both.
Adding Vera-Tucker would give the Broncos even more stability in the trenches, which is crucial for a young quarterback like Nix. Protecting the pocket and establishing the run are foundational pieces of Payton’s offense, and Vera-Tucker helps in both areas.
Final Thoughts
The Broncos are in a strong position heading into the 2026 offseason. They’ve got cap space, a competitive roster, and a head coach who knows how to build a winner. But to stay in the AFC’s upper tier, they’ll need to keep evolving.
Targeting players like Rico Dowdle, Rasheed Shaheed, Kyle Pitts, and Alijah Vera-Tucker isn’t just about filling holes-it’s about raising the ceiling. Each of these guys brings a specific skill set that could help Denver take the next step, whether it’s pounding the rock, stretching the field, creating mismatches, or shoring up the line.
The Broncos have momentum. Now it’s about making the right moves to keep it going.