The Denver Broncos were a surprising team this season. Despite the egregious cap hit from Russell Wilson’s contract, the team put together a quality season and made the postseason under rookie quarterback Bo Nix.
However, in those playoffs, it became clear that the offense needed some upgrades, especially in the offense, before the team could truly take the next step. That’s why one analyst predicts they could make a move for the Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram.
Broncos Projected To Trade for Evan Engram
Sean Payton’s genius was on full display on the defensive end. Not only did Denver have the Defensive Player of the Year in Pat Surtain II, but it also managed to finish with the best defense in the league by PFSN’s Defense+ metric.
On the other hand, the offense left a lot to be desired. Nix was an incredible long-ball threat with impressive athleticism, but his snap-to-snap game wasn’t fully refined. As a result, he ranked 18th on PFSN’s QB+ metric.
That took a toll on the offense, which relied heavily on making plays through the air and ranked 16th on PFSN’s Offense+ metric in 2024. Denver’s need for an offensive playmaker is evident, and Engram would not just fill that role but is also known for making big plays.
With Engram entering the last year of his contract in Jacksonville, Bleacher Reports’ Gary Davenport predicts the Jaguars could be open to trading the star to Denver.
“The Denver Broncos face a pivotal offseason after last year’s surprise postseason run. They are sitting on just under $35 million in cap space, but extensions for players such as wide receiver Courtland Sutton could eat up a chunk of that.
“The Broncos also need to add complementary options in the passing game, especially at tight end.
“And with veteran TE Evan Engram entering the last year of his contract, the 30-year-old could be on his way out of Duval County. … Denver could be a good fit for the eight-year veteran… It’s a major upgrade at arguably the weakest position on Denver’s roster, and Engram would likely be available for a Day 3 pick given last year’s injury-marred campaign.”
Engram posted 47 receptions for 365 yards and one touchdown in the nine games he managed to play in during the 2024 season. Meanwhile, none of Denver’s current tight ends was anything close to Engram’s injury-marred season.
Lucas Krull hasn’t developed yet, and while Nate Adkins has become a good blocker, he hasn’t done enough to elevate the offense. Adam Trautman was Denver’s most productive tight end last season, with 13 catches for 188 yards and a couple of touchdowns, and Engram would be an instant upgrade over any of the three.
The Broncos also have the option of looking for a tight end in the free agency, but PFSN’s Top Free Agents By Position notes that tight end is by far the weakest position group in this free-agent class, which is why a trade makes more sense than a signing.