Denver Broncos consider adding running back or receiver before NFL trade deadline today

Denver Broncos consider adding running back or receiver before NFL trade deadline today

The Denver Broncos are weighing moves to add offensive weapons before the NFL trade deadline at 2 p.m. MT today. With injuries to running backs RJ Harvey and Tyler Badie, and veteran JK Dobbins struggling to find form, the team is actively exploring options at running back, tight end, and wide receiver, according to Mike Klis of 9NEWS Denver.

Rookie running back Jonah Coleman has shown promise this season, but the Broncos’ backfield remains thin. The team has been heavily linked to Indianapolis Colts star Jonathan Taylor in recent days, though reports from Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer suggest Denver’s interest may have cooled somewhat. The Broncos could still consider other established backs such as Tennessee’s Tony Pollard or New York Jets’ Breece Hall, both notable names on the trade market.

Wide receiver might not be an immediate priority, but it could become one soon. Jaylen Waddle has underperformed relative to expectations, and Courtland Sutton, who will turn 32 next season, carries a significant salary cap hit. Pat Bryant’s season has been interrupted by injury, Marvin Mims is approaching free agency, and Troy Franklin remains low on the depth chart. Klis noted that adding a wide receiver who could contribute this season and beyond is a possibility if the right offer arises, though it seems less likely than moves at running back or tight end.

At tight end, the Broncos’ situation is complicated. Dallas Goedert is one of the few trade-available players who could make a difference, but Denver’s offense has not heavily involved the tight end position in the passing game. Evan Engram’s performance has been below expectations, while blocking specialist Nate Adkins leads the team with three touchdown catches but only six receptions overall. The Broncos reportedly attempted to acquire Cardinals tight end Trey McBride, but Arizona was not interested in trading him.

Trade conversations have included veteran RB JK Dobbins, but his potential departure now seems less probable following Harvey’s move to injured reserve, Breer reported. The Broncos have increased inquiries about tight ends and safeties, possibly signaling a broader search beyond just running backs.

Several notable players have been mentioned in trade talks around the league. Alongside Jonathan Taylor and Tony Pollard at running back, wide receivers Josh Downs (Colts) and Brian Thomas Jr. (Jaguars) have surfaced. Tight end Dallas Goedert (Eagles), edge rushers Khalil Mack (Chargers) and Josh Sweat (Cardinals), and defensive linemen like Colts’ Grover Stewart and Eagles’ Jordan Davis have also been traded or are potential trade candidates. The Colts have moved guard Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the 49ers. The Titans traded defensive lineman Jeffrey Simmons to the Bears, and the Cardinals sent quarterback Jacoby Brissett to the Ravens.

The Broncos’ front office has kept lines open with various teams in search of help. NFL insider Jordan Schultz confirmed Denver’s interest in adding a running back or tight end before the deadline. However, as of Monday night, sources suggest a trade remains unlikely.

Evan Engram, the Broncos’ primary tight end, has drawn trade inquiries, but the team has no replacement ready, making his departure improbable at this stage. Meanwhile, the team’s injury situation continues to influence trade strategy. With Harvey and Badie sidelined, the Broncos face pressure to reinforce their offense while managing salary cap and roster constraints.

As the deadline approaches, the Broncos will weigh whether to pursue a high-profile acquisition like Taylor or Hall or opt for smaller moves that provide depth. The team’s activity will offer insight into how Sean Payton’s squad aims to navigate the remainder of the 2026 NFL season.


According to Yahoo Sports.