After struggling for years with inconsistency and underwhelming results, the Denver Broncos are finally gaining traction. A productive offseason filled with impactful signings on both offense and defense has sparked renewed hope in the Mile High City.
But if Denver wants to emerge as a true contender in the highly competitive AFC, the front office must stay aggressive and pull off a few smart trades before the season kicks off.
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Offensive Upgrades and Remaining Concerns
The Broncos strengthened their offense with a few key additions. They signed tight end Evan Engram in free agency, giving the team a dependable target across the middle. They also selected UCF running back RJ Harvey in the second round—an explosive, versatile player who injects much-needed spark into a previously underwhelming backfield.
However, some concerns remain. Harvey still needs work in the passing game before he can develop into a complete NFL back. And despite improvements at tight end and running back, the wide receiver unit continues to be one of Denver’s biggest weaknesses.
The Broncos Need a True Deep Threat
Courtland Sutton, a seasoned wide receiver, is heading into the final year of his contract. While Marvin Mims Jr. and rookie Pat Bryant show potential, neither has emerged as a reliable deep threat. Bryant, in particular, raised eyebrows at the Combine by clocking a 4.61-second 40-yard dash—a time that doesn’t inspire confidence in his ability to stretch the field.
That’s exactly why Denver should target Rashid Shaheed.
Why Rashid Shaheed Is an Ideal Fit for the Broncos
Rashid Shaheed ranks among the NFL’s fastest and most electrifying wideouts. Before a meniscus injury ended his 2024 season in Week 6, he had already hauled in 20 passes for 349 yards and three touchdowns—averaging an impressive 17.5 yards per reception. His scores came on explosive plays of 70, 59, and 43 yards, underlining his deep-threat capabilities.
Despite limited playing time, Shaheed remained one of the league’s top deep-ball targets. He routinely flipped field position and kept opposing defenses guessing. If he returns healthy, Shaheed could instantly become Denver’s most dangerous vertical weapon.
New Orleans Might Be Open to a Deal
With the Derek Carr era likely ending, the New Orleans Saints appear ready to begin a rebuild. That shift could make wide receiver Rashid Shaheed available in exchange for valuable draft picks. If he hits the trade block, the Denver Broncos should act quickly to land him.
A Smart Investment with Long-Term Upside
Shaheed remains on a team-friendly deal, making him both an affordable and high-upside target. While he may not be 100% by Week 1 due to ongoing recovery from a knee injury, the Broncos would gain far more in long-term value than they risk in short-term availability.
A Game-Changing Fit in Denver’s Offense
Bringing Shaheed to Denver would instantly add a dynamic vertical threat to pair with Marvin Mims Jr. The duo could stretch opposing defenses downfield, creating space underneath for tight end Evan Engram and Denver’s versatile backfield. The result: an offense with a new layer of explosiveness it’s lacked in recent years.
This move wouldn’t just fill a gap—it could redefine how the Broncos attack.
A Bold Move with Playoff Implications
The Broncos addressed several key weaknesses this offseason, but they still need one more impact player to push their offense to the next level. Trading for Shaheed would give them a true difference-maker one with elite speed, proven upside, and a budget-friendly contract.
After years of rebuilding, Denver now has a chance to make aggressive, winning decisions. Acquiring Shaheed could turn the Broncos from a mid-tier team into a serious playoff contender in the ultra-competitive AFC.
