The Denver Broncos are heading into the offseason with a clear need to bolster their offensive arsenal. Last year's key additions, J.K.
Dobbins and Evan Engram, didn't quite deliver the impact the team had hoped for. Dobbins' foot injury was a significant setback for the run game, and while Engram caught 50 passes, his contribution fell short with under 500 yards and just one touchdown.
As the Broncos look to address these persistent issues, General Manager George Paton faces the challenge of finding the right pieces to elevate the offense. Wide receiver remains a critical area of concern.
The team has been linked to Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce as a potential free agency target. However, this move might not be the solution Denver needs.
Pierce, while talented, is more of a WR2, and the Broncos are in search of a true WR1 to complement their existing lineup. Courtland Sutton, currently the team's top target, would thrive in a secondary role.
Troy Franklin showed promise in his second year, but he too is better suited as a third option. What Denver truly needs is a game-changing receiver, someone like AJ Brown or Jaylen Waddle, or even a strong '1a' option like DJ Moore.
Financially, signing Pierce could also be problematic. His contract is expected to exceed $20 million per season, a steep price for a player primarily known for his downfield capabilities. While Pierce did manage to surpass 1,000 yards in 2025, it was on fewer than 50 receptions, raising questions about the value of such an investment.
Instead, the Broncos might find better value by targeting other positions. For the cost of Pierce, Denver could potentially secure significant help at both tight end and running back. Players like Travis Etienne and Cade Otton could be acquired for a combined annual cost similar to what Pierce alone would command.
In conclusion, while Alec Pierce is a talented receiver, he may not be the 'perfect' fit for the Broncos. The team needs to make strategic decisions in free agency to truly enhance their offensive capabilities and avoid falling into costly traps.