The Denver Broncos made a splash this offseason by acquiring Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins, a move that instantly reshapes the team's receiving corps. Waddle, a former first‑round pick known for his agility and big‑play ability, arrives in Denver with a track record of over 900 receiving yards in a single season.
Open competition at the top of the depth chart
Coach Sean Payton has made it clear that no official depth‑chart hierarchy will be set before the start of the 2026 campaign, leaving the WR1 role open to competition. Both Waddle and Courtland Sutton are slated to see extensive snaps, a strategy Payton says will leverage the strengths of each player.
Sutton, who topped the Broncos with 1,017 yards and seven touchdowns last year, is expected to continue serving as the primary "X" receiver, while Waddle's versatility could see him used in multiple formations, including slot and outside alignments. Their complementary skill sets give the offense flexibility, allowing the coaching staff to mix and match based on game situations.
The Broncos' offensive coordinator has hinted that the addition of Waddle could open up new play designs, potentially boosting a passing attack that finished mid‑tier in yardage last season. If the chemistry develops as hoped, the team could see a noticeable jump in scoring efficiency when the new duo clicks.