The Denver Broncos are making waves this offseason, having already secured Jaylen Waddle to bolster their offensive arsenal. But the action might not stop there.
Despite holding just one pick in the top three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Broncos are strategizing for a potential move up the board. Their target? Another dynamic weapon for quarterback Bo Nix.
Reports indicate that the Broncos are hosting Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers for a top-30 pre-draft visit. This is intriguing, considering Stowers is projected to be the second tight end selected in this draft class, and Denver's first pick isn't until the 62nd spot.
Stowers' visit hints at Denver's interest in possibly trading up. His scheduled meetings with both the Cowboys and Broncos suggest he’s a hot commodity.
Traditionally, the Broncos don't often draft players they bring in for pre-draft visits, typically focusing on late-round prospects or undrafted free agents. However, this strategy could shift, potentially serving as a smokescreen to keep other teams guessing. It’s a clever game of draft-day chess.
Whether it's a visit to Denver or a trip to meet a player, head coach Sean Payton and GM George Paton value face-to-face interactions. They aim to assess if a player is the right fit for the team’s culture and needs.
Stowers, a converted quarterback, brings incredible athleticism to the tight end position. His unofficial 9.46 RAS (Relative Athletic Score) ranks him among the top tight ends since 1987. With a record-setting 45.5-inch vertical and an 11'3" broad jump, Stowers is explosive and fast, offering tantalizing potential as a pass-catcher.
Given these traits, moving up to draft Stowers could be a smart play for the Broncos. While it’s not common for them to draft players from their pre-draft visits, the possibility of a strategic shift remains.
The Broncos' interest in Stowers aligns with their current and future offensive needs, making a trade-up scenario worth watching as the draft approaches.