The Denver Broncos made a deep playoff run in 2025, riding the strength of an elite defense all the way to the AFC Championship Game. But if there was one glaring issue that held them back from going even further, it was the lack of a consistent second option in the passing game. Courtland Sutton was excellent - a reliable target who clearly earned Bo Nix’s trust - but he was often doing the heavy lifting without much help.
That’s why this offseason could be pivotal for Denver. The defense is already built to win now.
The next step? Giving Nix a true arsenal on offense.
And that starts with finding a dynamic wide receiver to line up opposite Sutton.
One name that’s starting to gain traction is George Pickens - a player who turned heads in Dallas last season and could be exactly what Denver needs to unlock its offensive potential.
Why Pickens Makes Sense for Denver
Let’s start with the production. Pickens lit it up in 2025, hauling in 93 receptions for over 1,400 yards and 9 touchdowns. He became a go-to weapon for Dak Prescott, showing the kind of big-play ability and physicality that would complement Sutton perfectly in Denver’s offense.
The Broncos finished 25th in passing success rate last season - not exactly the stat you want attached to a team trying to contend for a Super Bowl. That number reflects more than just quarterback play; it points to a lack of separation, consistency, and explosiveness from the receiving corps beyond Sutton. Adding a player like Pickens would directly address that issue.
He’s a vertical threat who can stretch the field, but he also brings toughness at the catch point and a competitive edge that fits the Broncos’ gritty identity. With Sutton on one side, Pickens on the other, and a solid run game and tight end group to round things out, Bo Nix would be walking into 2026 with a much more balanced and dangerous offensive unit - assuming everyone stays healthy.
The Cost of Doing Business
Of course, signing Pickens won’t come cheap. After a breakout season in Dallas, he’s earned the right to command a big contract.
But for a team like Denver, this is the kind of move that could shift the balance in the AFC. The defense is already there.
The quarterback is developing. Now’s the time to invest in the supporting cast.
And while there were once questions about Pickens’ maturity and locker room presence, his time in Dallas helped quiet much of that noise. He showed up, produced, and proved he could be a reliable part of a winning culture.
What It Means for Bo Nix
If the Broncos do land Pickens, no one benefits more than Bo Nix. The rookie quarterback showed poise and promise in 2025, but he was often asked to do too much with too little. Adding a dynamic receiver like Pickens would ease the pressure, open up the playbook, and allow Nix to grow into the role with a more complete set of tools.
In a league where offensive firepower is often the difference between good and great, Denver has a chance to make a statement this offseason. The defense gave them a shot in 2025. A move like this could help them finish the job in 2026.