The Denver Broncos are riding high on optimism after wrapping up the 2025 NFL season, setting their sights firmly on a Super Bowl run in 2026. They made a bold move to bolster their roster by trading a first and a third-round pick for Miami Dolphins' standout receiver, Jaylen Waddle. It’s a hefty price, but the Broncos now boast one of the most formidable receiving corps in the league, giving quarterback Bo Nix a top-tier arsenal of weapons.
With their first selection now pushed to the 62nd spot in the 2026 NFL Draft, general manager George Paton is already hinting at some potential draft-night excitement. According to Luca Evans of The Denver Post, Paton is keeping his options open, teasing the possibility of a trade to move up and snag a coveted player.
Paton’s comments shed light on the Broncos' draft strategy post-Waddle acquisition. He mentioned that while they're focused on pick No. 62, there's always room for maneuvering. Denver has seen success in that range before, with past picks like Mims at 63 in '23 and Nik Bonitto at 64 in '22, but the allure of moving up is palpable if the right opportunity presents itself.
Having spent their 30th overall pick on Waddle, the Broncos are now looking at creative ways to climb the draft ladder. Without a third-round pick, they might dip into their Day 3 selections or future draft assets. Another intriguing possibility is leveraging one of their talented wideouts, such as Troy Franklin or Marvin Mims, to facilitate a trade up the board.
While a leap into the first round seems unlikely, Paton’s strategy might involve a calculated move from No. 62 into the 50s to grab a player they’re keen on before someone else does. It’s a potential power play that could add another dynamic piece to their roster without breaking the bank.
For Broncos fans, the prospect of a draft-day trade brings a mix of excitement and anticipation. As long as the team navigates this with precision, they could emerge with another key contributor for their Super Bowl quest.