The Denver Broncos Did Not See This Coming…
No one in Denver Broncos Country saw this coming. The NFL offseason always brings surprises, but the latest move involving Deebo Samuel has truly shaken up the league. The San Francisco 49ers have officially traded their star wide receiver to the Washington Commanders for a mere fifth-round draft pick. While some see this as an absolute steal for Washington, others believe it’s an overpayment considering the $17.5 million cap hit they are absorbing for an aging wideout with potential diva tendencies. However, the biggest shocker in all of this is that the Denver Broncos, a team that many believed to be a prime destination for Deebo, completely passed on him.
Was Deebo a Fit for Sean Payton’s Offense?
Leading up to the trade, there were strong indications that Deebo had narrowed down his preferred destinations to either the Houston Texans or the Denver Broncos. With Sean Payton looking to rebuild the Broncos’ offense and rookie quarterback Bo Nix in need of playmakers, many thought Denver might pull the trigger on acquiring a dynamic weapon like Deebo.
Instead, the Broncos front office opted out of the bidding war, leaving many fans divided. On one hand, getting a player of Deebo’s caliber for a mere fifth-round pick seems like highway robbery. On the other hand, Denver would have had to take on his massive contract, which, given their current cap situation, would have been a tough pill to swallow. While Deebo still has the ability to be an elite playmaker, his declining separation ability and inconsistent production last season raised concerns. The Broncos, sitting on $50 million in cap space, apparently decided they had better ways to allocate their resources.
Was Passing on Deebo the Right Move?
Many fans in San Francisco seem relieved to move on from Deebo. The 49ers have openly admitted that they need to get younger, and the move frees up much-needed cap space for upcoming extensions. Reports suggest that Deebo’s attitude and high-maintenance persona may have also played a role in the 49ers’ willingness to part ways.
The question remains: Did Denver make the right decision? Marvin Mims Jr. is already being viewed as a younger, less diva-like version of Deebo, and the Broncos may feel comfortable moving forward with him as a key piece in their offense. Given the fact that they received a better return for Jerry Jeudy than what the 49ers got for Deebo, it does make sense from a value standpoint.
The Devante Adams Trade Rumors
Another major development that Broncos fans are watching closely is the situation with Davante Adams. Reports suggest that the New York Jets are actively seeking a trade partner for Adams, but given the enormity of his contract, a trade seems unlikely. If Adams were to be released, though, would the Broncos consider signing him on a veteran minimum deal?
Adams, despite being older, is still an elite receiver and could bring immense value to Bo Nix and the Denver offense. However, given his past ties to Aaron Rodgers and rumors that he could reunite with Rodgers in Las Vegas, the possibility of him landing in Denver remains slim.
The NFL Combine and Denver’s Draft Strategy
With so much happening in free agency, the Broncos must also focus on the upcoming NFL Draft. The NFL Combine provided some valuable insights, particularly at the wide receiver position. Several prospects could be excellent fits for Bo Nix and Sean Payton’s system, including Georgia’s Malaki Starks, who has drawn comparisons to Derwin James.
One position that stood out in the combine was the center spot. Jared Wilson out of Georgia has tested as one of the most physically impressive centers in recent memory. If the Broncos were to select him, they could solidify their offensive line and provide Nix with elite protection. This could be a move that helps maximize the potential of their young quarterback.
What’s Next for the Broncos?
The Denver Broncos passing on Deebo Samuel may ultimately be a blessing in disguise. While he is a talented player, his hefty contract and declining separation ability made him a risky acquisition. Instead, Denver can focus on strengthening its roster through free agency and the draft. If they manage to land a top-tier center and add another playmaker at wide receiver, they could set themselves up for a strong season with Bo Nix at the helm.
Now, with free agency looming, all eyes are on how the Broncos will use their $50 million in cap space. Will they target a veteran wide receiver, bolster their defense, or make a surprising move no one saw coming? As always, Broncos Country will be watching closely.
