Broncos Trade for Waddle, Focus on Day 2 Draft

0:00It's April 23rd, I'm Cory with the story. This is NFL News Today, driven by AI and built for football fans. The Denver Broncos are rolling into the 2026 NFL Draft without a first round pick for the third time in five years. They traded away their number 30 overall selection, plus a third and fourth rounder to snack star wide receiver Jalen Waddle from the Miami. Dolphins back in March. In return, they got Waddle and a fourth round pick at number 111. This move beefs up their receiving core with a dynamic 27-year-old who was the sixth overall pick in 2021. That trade leaves Denver with seven picks total, starting with number 62 in the second round. They've got two more in the fourth, one in the fifth and three seventh rounders, including two compensatory ones. General manager George Patton has built a solid track record on day two, and later turning mid-round gems into starters without needing top 10 talent every time. Waddle's might feel the sting of no early splash, but Payton owns it.

1:03He loves draft capital, but admits he's traded away too many firsts. Still, the Broncos needed a true number one receiver, especially with Courtland's son in turning 31 soon. Waddle brings use and explosion to pair with him, locking down the position for years. Looking ahead that second round spot at 62 is their best shot at an immediate contributor. Their last few round two picks, like RJ Harvey last year, Marvin Mims in 2023, Nick Bonito in 2022, and Javante Williams. Back in 2021, have all panned out strong. Even without trading up, they've got enough ammo to add real depth across the roster by drafts end. Miami meanwhile, rebuilds with that Broncos first rounder and holds the number 11 pick, eyeing a tackle like Spencer Fato. Denver's front office stays aggressive, proving you don't need round one to build a contender. They're set to keep the momentum from their AFC. Championship run.