According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the Denver Broncos are reportedly monitoring the tight end market ahead of the NFL trade deadline. An earlier report indicated the Broncos could be the “biggest
contender” for a wide receiver, but according to this report, they are also monitoring the tight end market.
The Broncos made a big splash this offseason when they signed veteran tight end Evan Engram to be Sean Payton’s ‘Joker’. There was a lot of hype about that signing and the impact he would have on the offense, but through 7 games, we have seen mixed results. Things started slowly for Engram, but recently, he has been a bit more productive. Despite his recent surge in production, he has 22 receptions for 179 yards and just 1 touchdown on the year.
I think both sides expected more.
So, could they explore the trade market to add another receiving option to this unit? It is possible if the price is right. The two big names that have been rumored as trade candidates are Ravens tight end Mark Andrews and Browns tight end David Njoku. I would be surprised if either veteran would be moved, but with both teams having down years, they could listen to offers on some of their veteran players.
Andrews has lost a step in recent years, but would give the Broncos another solid underneath option as well as another big red zone target for quarterback Bo Nix. I do not think the Ravens pull the trigger on a trade here, but if they lose again this Sunday, things could change. As for Njoku, he may have a better shot at being moved due to the emergence of rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. If he were to become available, he is a player I would love the Broncos to acquire.
Njoku can block, is still an excellent receiver, and would give Bo Nix another big and athletic target in the red zone. He’s 29 years old, entering the final year of his contract, and could be a valuable piece added to a contending team. It’s unclear if the Browns will move on from their longtime pass catcher at the deadline, but if they do, the Broncos should have interest.
Another name that is rumored to be available is Titans tight end Chig Okonkwo. He is another big and athletic “move tight end”, but I am not sure the Broncos will want another move tight end who isn’t known for their blocking. I do like his athleticism and pass-catching upside, but unclear on the fit.
The less exciting route would be to add an in-line tight end to help with the run blocking. The Broncos have veteran Adam Trautman and fullback/tight end Nate Adkins for those roles, but if they want to improve that, adding another mauler inside could be what they want to do.
Off topic, but if the Jags are listening to offers for wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., George Paton HAS to make that call. You’re talking about a receiver with Demaryius Thomas upside, who would give the Broncos a size/speed guy they are desperately missing. It would be shocking if he is available, but if he is, make that call and get Bo another explosive weapon.
The trade deadline is November 4th at 2 p.m. MT, and we will have to see if the Broncos make a move for a wide receiver, tight end, or anyone else. Stay tuned to Mile High Report for all the news and rumors for the Denver Broncos ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
