Three Offseason Moves That Could Push the Broncos Into Contention in 2026
The Denver Broncos enter the 2026 offseason with something they haven’t had in a long time: real momentum. After a season that showed flashes of promise-and might’ve ended very differently if not for the injury to rookie quarterback Bo Nix-there’s a renewed sense of belief around the building.
The front office and coaching staff clearly think they were a few healthy bodies away from playing deep into February. Now comes the hard part: turning that belief into results.
Denver’s roster is solid. Deep in several spots.
But if we’re being honest, they were missing that top-tier talent at a few key positions-especially on offense. When J.K.
Dobbins went down with a season-ending foot injury, the Broncos’ offensive identity took a serious hit. Suddenly, they were lacking a true playmaker, someone who could flip the field or spark a drive when things stalled.
Courtland Sutton had a strong season and continues to be a reliable target, but at this stage of his career, he’s more of a steady presence than a game-breaking weapon. Denver can’t afford to head into next season without a few more dynamic options on that side of the ball.
The good news? They’ve got options.
The Broncos have a healthy amount of cap space and a war chest of draft picks. That combination puts them in prime position to build their most competitive roster since the Peyton Manning era.
If General Manager George Paton and his staff hit on the right moves, this team could be playing meaningful football in January-and maybe even February.
Here are three offseason moves that could help push the Broncos over the top:
3. Add a Dynamic Slot Receiver: Sign Wan’Dale Robinson
The Broncos need more juice in the receiver room. It’s that simple. And while they might not want to shell out top-tier money for a big-name free agent, there’s a compelling case to be made for targeting someone like Wan’Dale Robinson.
Robinson quietly put together a strong season despite playing in a struggling Giants offense that lacked consistency at quarterback. He’s a shifty, explosive slot receiver who can create separation quickly and make defenders miss in space-exactly the kind of weapon Bo Nix could use in his development.
Robinson likely won’t command WR1 money, but his upside is real. In Sean Payton’s offense, which thrives on timing, spacing, and quick reads, a player like Robinson could shine. He’d give the Broncos a much-needed spark in the short and intermediate passing game.
2. Upgrade the Tight End Position: Move on from Adam Trautman
Sean Payton’s system has always placed a premium on tight ends who can do more than just block. And while Adam Trautman has been a reliable inline presence for the Broncos, his lack of production as a pass-catcher is starting to stand out-for the wrong reasons.
Trautman’s blocking regressed this past season, and without much to offer in the receiving game, his overall value is becoming harder to justify. If Denver wants to maximize its offensive potential, this is a clear area to upgrade.
Two names to keep an eye on in free agency: David Njoku and Cade Otton. Both bring more to the table as pass-catching threats and could thrive in a scheme that values versatility.
With a young quarterback under center, having a tight end who can be a reliable safety valve is crucial. Whether it's Njoku’s athleticism or Otton’s route-running savvy, either would represent a significant step up in Denver’s passing attack.
1. Make a Splash at Running Back: Go All-In on Breece Hall
Let’s be clear-when J.K. Dobbins went down, the Broncos felt it.
The offense lost its rhythm, its balance, and its ability to control the tempo of games. That injury underscored just how vital a top-tier running back is in this system.
Enter Breece Hall.
Hall is expected to be one of the top backs available in free agency, and he checks just about every box for what Sean Payton wants in a feature back: vision, burst, pass-catching ability, and durability. He’s a true three-down back who can take pressure off Bo Nix, keep defenses honest, and give this offense a reliable engine.
Payton has never been shy about investing in elite running backs. If the Broncos want to make a statement this offseason, going all-in on Hall would do just that. It’s a move that could elevate the entire offense-and potentially change the trajectory of the 2026 season.
Bottom Line
The Broncos are close. Closer than they’ve been in years. With a young quarterback who showed promise, a coaching staff that’s starting to find its rhythm, and the resources to make real improvements, this offseason could be the turning point.
But it’s going to take bold decisions. Adding playmakers like Wan’Dale Robinson, upgrading the tight end room, and landing a game-changing back like Breece Hall aren’t just smart moves-they’re necessary ones. If Denver wants to be playing in the final weekend next year, these are the kind of steps that can get them there.