The Denver Broncos, currently holding a 3-2 record and aiming for sole possession of second place in the AFC West, have officially announced the signing of a $21 million playmaker ahead of the trade deadline. With a critical Week 6 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Broncos are riding high on a three-game winning streak, bolstered by a dominant defense that’s performing as one of the best in the league.
However, the Broncos’ offense has struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, and many believe an upgrade is needed to elevate their chances. According to Troy Renck of The Denver Post, if Denver continues its winning ways, a major offensive addition could be on the horizon—most notably, Cincinnati Bengals star receiver Tee Higgins.
Higgins, 25, has emerged as a top trade target for the Broncos, with 18 receptions, 182 yards, and two touchdowns in the 2024 season. Renck believes that Denver should push for a trade to bring Higgins into the fold before the Nov. 5 deadline, arguing that the team needs to add firepower to support their playoff aspirations.
“In about a month, they must make a move at the trade deadline to add a proven target,” Renck wrote. “Bo Nix needs it, and if the team remains in contention, they deserve it.”
Higgins, who is currently playing under a franchise tag valued at $21.8 million, cannot sign a long-term extension until the offseason. Financial constraints and scheduling complexities make the move challenging, but not impossible. Renck notes that Higgins would command a prorated salary of roughly $11 million for the remainder of the season, which would require the Broncos to make cap space available.
Despite his stellar performance, Higgins and the Bengals have had a rocky start to the season, holding a 1-4 record. The Bengals’ next four games will be pivotal, with the team potentially reconsidering a trade if their season fails to turn around.
For the Broncos, a trade for Higgins would likely involve sending quarterback Jarrett Stidham and a 2025 second-round pick to the Bengals. Such a deal would give Denver the offensive boost they need while also preparing for the future, as Higgins moves closer to free agency.
Denver has $4.7 million in available cap space as of October 11, and Renck suggests that extending offensive lineman Garett Bolles and trading Stidham could free up enough space to absorb Higgins’ salary. This move would give the Broncos significant flexibility, both now and heading into the 2025 season, where they are projected to have $71.8 million in cap space.
Renck’s proposal highlights the importance of making moves now to keep the Broncos in playoff contention while securing a star receiver for the long term. With Bolles anchoring the offensive line and the possibility of acquiring Higgins, Denver could solidify its status as a serious contender in the AFC.
Leave a Reply