Three Teams That Could Crash the Broncos’ Offseason Plans
The Denver Broncos are heading into the 2026 offseason with something they haven’t had in a while: flexibility. With Russell Wilson’s dead cap finally off the books, the Broncos have room to maneuver financially - and after a strong 2025 campaign, they’ve got momentum, too.
If not for Bo Nix’s unfortunate ankle injury, there’s a real argument that Denver could be prepping for Super Bowl LX right now. Instead, they’re in roster-building mode, looking to take that next step in 2026.
But as Denver eyes key upgrades - especially at wide receiver, running back, tight end, and inside linebacker - they’re not the only team shopping. A few franchises with similar needs and ample resources could be standing in the Broncos’ way this spring. Let’s break down three teams that could complicate Denver’s offseason blueprint.
1. New England Patriots
Denver fans don’t need a reminder of how the 2025 season ended. The Patriots came into Mile High and knocked the Broncos out in the AFC Championship Game. And while it’s fair to wonder how things might’ve played out with a healthy Bo Nix, the bigger takeaway is this: both New England and Denver are built for sustained success.
Each team saw its second-year quarterback take a major leap in 2025, and both front offices are armed with cap space and draft capital. That sets the stage for what could become a budding AFC rivalry - and maybe even a rematch next January.
But before we get there, the Patriots could be a thorn in Denver’s side this offseason. Like the Broncos, New England is in the market for another offensive weapon.
One name that’s been floated in trade chatter is A.J. Brown.
If he becomes available, the Patriots might have an edge in the sweepstakes thanks to head coach Mike Vrabel’s past connection with Brown from their days together in Tennessee. That kind of familiarity can go a long way in a player’s decision-making process.
So if Denver is eyeing a big-time receiver to pair with Nix, they may have to outmaneuver a Patriots team that’s just as motivated - and possibly better positioned - to land one.
2. Tennessee Titans
The Titans are coming off a major organizational reset. They’ve brought in Robert Saleh as head coach and Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator - a pairing that suddenly gives Tennessee a much more credible coaching infrastructure. Add in No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward, who flashed real potential late in the 2025 season, and there’s reason for optimism in Nashville.
But here’s the thing: the Titans are still light on offensive weapons. If they want Ward to succeed, they’ll need to surround him with talent - fast. That could put them directly in competition with the Broncos for some of the same skill-position players.
Take Breece Hall, for example. His versatile skill set would fit beautifully in Denver’s offense, but Tennessee, with a staggering $104.7 million in cap space, has the financial firepower to make a serious run at him. If Hall hits the market, the Titans could easily outbid the Broncos - or anyone else, for that matter.
The same goes for other offensive targets. If Tennessee decides to go all-in on building around Ward, they could become one of the most aggressive buyers of the offseason - and a serious roadblock for Denver’s plans.
3. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts started 2025 red-hot, jumping out to a 7-1 record and making a bold move by trading for Sauce Gardner - a deal that cost them two first-round picks. It was a clear signal from GM Chris Ballard: this team is going for it.
But then the wheels came off. Quarterback Daniel Jones tore his Achilles, and the Colts missed the playoffs entirely.
Now, heading into 2026, Indy doesn’t have much choice but to double down. With Jones expected back and the roster still loaded with talent, they’ll be aggressive in trying to plug holes and make another run.
One area of concern for both the Colts and Broncos? Inside linebacker.
Denver has Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad hitting free agency, while Indy could lose Germaine Pratt, Buddy Johnson, Segun Olubi, and Jacob Phillips. That opens the door for a potential bidding war - especially for someone like Devin Lloyd, the All-Pro linebacker who might be on his way out of Jacksonville.
Lloyd would be a game-changer in the middle of Denver’s defense, but the Colts could be just desperate enough to make a splashy offer and beat the Broncos to the punch.
The Bottom Line
The Broncos are in a great spot heading into 2026 - a young, ascending quarterback, a strong foundation on both sides of the ball, and now, finally, the financial flexibility to make real upgrades. But they’re not building in a vacuum.
New England, Tennessee, and Indianapolis all have similar needs, similar ambitions, and the resources to be just as aggressive. If Denver wants to capitalize on its championship window, they’ll have to navigate a competitive market and win some key battles in free agency and the trade arena.
The path to Super Bowl LXI starts now - and it’s already getting crowded.