Bo Nix gets a star WR as Broncos trade for Jaylen Waddle

In his first two seasons in the league, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has turned to wide receiver Courtland Sutton in tough situations, as the big-bodied 30-year-old routinely comes down with contested catches. But what the Broncos have lacked is an elite field stretcher, someone who can take the top off of defenses. Marvin Mims Jr. has served in that role, though his career high in yards is just 503.

Now, thanks to a blockbuster trade on Tuesday, the Broncos have a bona-fide star in former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle for Nix to throw his patented vertical passes to — much like his days with the Oregon Ducks when he threw for 45 touchdowns in 2023.

Waddle has been among the most explosive wideouts in the NFL during his five seasons in Miami, totaling 5,039 yards and 26 touchdowns on 13.5 yards per catch.

At the same time, the addition of Waddle also adds competition for reps for another former Duck: wide receiver Troy Franklin , who was drafted in the fourth round in 2024 and paired right back up with Nix.

Franklin struggled as a rookie, but his connection with Nix shown last season, as he hauled in 65 passes for 709 yards and six touchdowns. He was the Broncos' second-leading receiver on the year.

Denver is expected to send premium draft compensation to the Dolphins in the deal.

Coming off an AFC Championship berth in which Nix missed the game due to a broken ankle, the Broncos appear to be going all in on their young passer while he's still on a rookie deal, hoping to make a Super Bowl push before he commands a rich contract extension.

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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Denver Broncos add star WR, bolstering Bo Nix's receiving core