After a 14-win campaign that saw them snag the AFC’s top seed, the Denver Broncos looked like a team ready to make serious postseason noise. But everything changed in the blink of an eye when quarterback Bo Nix went down with a broken ankle in the final moments of the divisional round. That injury shifted the weight of the AFC Championship onto backup Jarrett Stidham, who battled but ultimately couldn’t carry the Broncos past the New England Patriots.
Now, Denver heads into the 2026 offseason with a bitter taste in its mouth and a clear goal: reload and make another run.
The front office has roughly $26 million in cap space to work with-not exactly a war chest, but enough to make meaningful moves if they’re strategic. And while there are a few key areas that need attention, one stands out: wide receiver.
Right now, the Broncos’ receiver room is led by veteran Courtland Sutton and promising young talent Troy Franklin. Sutton remains a reliable target, but he was the only Denver wideout to eclipse 70 catches or 1,000 yards last season.
At 30 years old, he could use a little help. Franklin has shown flashes, but the depth behind those two is thin.
If Denver wants to give Nix-or whoever’s under center-a full arsenal in 2026, they need to bring in another dependable pass-catcher.
Let’s look at two intriguing free-agent options who could fill that need-one a cost-effective veteran presence, the other a rising star who’d require a bigger financial commitment.
Keenan Allen: Veteran Leadership at a Bargain
Even at 33, Keenan Allen continues to produce like a pro’s pro. Last season with the Chargers, he racked up 777 yards and eight touchdowns-solid numbers for a receiver in the back half of his career.
Allen’s game has never relied on pure speed; it’s always been about route-running precision, strong hands, and football IQ. That skill set ages well, and it’s why he could still be a valuable asset for a team like Denver.
What makes Allen especially appealing is his likely price tag. He’s no longer in his prime, which means the Broncos could potentially land him on a short-term, team-friendly deal.
That would give them flexibility to address other needs while still adding a savvy, reliable target to the offense. He wouldn’t be asked to carry the load-just to complement Sutton and mentor Franklin.
And when the postseason rolls around, Allen’s experience could be a difference-maker.
Wan’Dale Robinson: A Young, Dynamic Weapon
If the Broncos decide to swing bigger, Wan’Dale Robinson is a name worth watching. At just 25, he’s coming off a breakout season with the Giants-92 receptions, over 1,000 yards, and four touchdowns. On a team that struggled to find its footing all year, Robinson was a bright spot, often carrying the load in the passing game.
Robinson brings a different flavor to the Broncos' offense. He’s a shifty slot receiver with game-breaking speed and the ability to create separation in tight windows. His quickness underneath would pair nicely with Sutton’s physicality on the outside and Franklin’s vertical threat, giving Denver a more complete and versatile receiving corps.
Of course, adding a young talent like Robinson won’t come cheap. He’s entering his prime, and after a season like that, he’ll have suitors. But if Denver believes they’re in win-now mode-and with the roster they’ve built, they should-then investing in a young playmaker like Robinson could be worth the cost.
The Bottom Line
Denver’s 2025 season showed just how close they are. With a healthy Bo Nix, they might’ve been playing in the Super Bowl.
That’s why this offseason is so critical. Every move needs to be about closing the gap between contender and champion.
Adding a wide receiver isn’t just a luxury-it’s a necessity. Whether it’s the proven hands of Keenan Allen or the electric upside of Wan’Dale Robinson, the Broncos need another weapon to keep pace in a loaded AFC. Because if they can stay healthy and surround their young quarterback with the right tools, there’s no reason Denver can’t be right back in the mix come January.