After a big Week 13 win, the Denver Broncos find themselves in prime position at 10-2, sitting atop the AFC West and very much in the hunt for a first-round playoff bye. But while the record speaks volumes, the offense-particularly the wide receiver group-still feels like it's missing that extra gear.
Courtland Sutton continues to be the alpha in the room, and there’s promise in young guys like Troy Franklin, Pat Bryant, and Marvin Mims. But let’s be honest-depth matters, especially in December. Injuries pile up, defenses tighten, and sometimes it’s the third or fourth receiver who ends up making the play that keeps your playoff hopes alive.
Enter Elijah Moore.
The Broncos are bringing in the veteran wideout on a practice squad deal, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Moore, who’s now on his fourth team in five seasons, has logged 209 receptions for 2,274 yards and nine touchdowns over his career. He’s had stints with the Jets, Browns, and most recently, the Bills.
Now, Moore isn’t coming in to be the savior of this offense, and he’s not expected to leapfrog Sutton or Mims on the depth chart. But what he does bring is a skill set that can be quietly impactful-especially in the right situations. He’s a solid option after the catch, the kind of player who can turn a short gain into something more with just a little space.
And Broncos fans might remember that wild showdown against the Browns last season-Moore, then with Cleveland, had one of his better games, hauling in eight catches for 111 yards on 14 targets. That kind of performance doesn’t go unnoticed, especially by a team that got a front-row seat.
This year with Buffalo, Moore’s role was limited-nine catches for 112 yards on 17 targets, no touchdowns through the air. But he did find the end zone on the ground, taking six carries for 24 yards and a score.
That versatility is where things get interesting. He’s not just a plug-and-play receiver; he’s the kind of guy you can scheme into motion, line up in the slot, or even hand the ball off to in a jet sweep package.
Right now, Denver’s receiver depth is thin. Beyond the top four-Sutton, Mims, Franklin, and Bryant-only Lil’Jordan Humphrey is on the active roster. That’s not a lot of margin for error, especially if the Broncos want to keep their foot on the gas heading into the postseason.
Moore isn’t a home-run signing, but he’s a smart one. He gives the Broncos a little more flexibility, a little more speed, and a little more experience at a position group that could use all three. Don’t expect him to suddenly become a focal point of the offense, but don’t be surprised if he ends up making a key play or two down the stretch.
It’s a low-risk move with potential upside-and at this stage of the season, that’s exactly the kind of addition that can make a difference.