The Denver Broncos came heartbreakingly close to a Super Bowl berth this past season, falling just short in large part due to the injury to rookie quarterback Bo Nix. But even in that disappointment, there was a clear takeaway: this team is built to contend. They didn’t just make a run - they locked up the AFC’s No. 1 seed and showed they belong in the title conversation.
Now comes the next phase - an offseason that could define the trajectory of this team for years to come. The Broncos have the cap space, the momentum, and a clear understanding of where they need to improve. And if they want to make a splash, there’s one name that could change the entire outlook of their offense: George Pickens.
Pickens, who just wrapped up a breakout season with the Dallas Cowboys after being traded from Pittsburgh, is set to hit free agency. That is, unless Dallas slaps him with the franchise tag - a move many around the league expect. But if the Cowboys hesitate, Denver could be in position to pounce.
Let’s be clear: Pickens isn’t just a good receiver - he’s the kind of talent that can reshape a passing game. In Dallas, he hit career highs across the board, earning an 87.2 Pro Football Focus receiving grade and averaging 2.35 yards per route run.
That’s elite territory. He didn’t just fit into the Cowboys’ offense - he became a focal point.
Now imagine him in Denver, alongside Courtland Sutton. The Broncos finished 26th in team receiving grade last season, and their passing attack ranked 25th in success rate.
That’s not going to cut it, especially if they want to maximize the window they’ve opened with their defense and young quarterback. Adding a dynamic playmaker like Pickens could be the catalyst this offense needs.
And the Broncos can afford it. With $27 million in cap space before any restructures, they’re in a rare position of strength. That gives them the flexibility to go after a top-tier free agent - and in terms of wide receivers, there may be none better available than Pickens.
Of course, this all hinges on what Dallas decides to do. If they tag him, the conversation ends there. But if Pickens pushes back or if the Cowboys opt for a different direction, Denver could - and should - be ready to make a serious offer.
For now, Broncos fans should keep an eye on the situation in Dallas. Because if George Pickens hits the open market, he won’t stay there long. And if Denver wants to take the next step offensively, this might be the move that gets them there.