Against all odds, the Denver Broncos have managed to field a competitive team, thanks in large part to Sean Payton’s coaching expertise and a resilient defense. At 2-2, they are one of the NFL’s surprise teams heading into their Week 5 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
However, the Broncos’ offense hasn’t been pulling its weight, as evidenced by their 10-9 victory over the New York Jets on September 29. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix struggled mightily, setting a dubious record in the process.
“Nix completed 48% of his passes for 60 yards, with 1 touchdown and no interceptions,” wrote Josh Buckhalter of Heavy Sports. “He attempted 12 passes, averaging just 2.4 yards per attempt — the lowest in a win by any quarterback with at least 25 attempts since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970, according to NFL researcher Dante Koplowitz-Fleming.”
Nix has taken most of the blame, and rightfully so, even though the rest of the offense has shown some improvement. The wide receivers have stepped up, the running backs are making progress, and the offensive line didn’t allow a sack against the Jets. The tight ends, however, have been ineffective. Greg Dulcich, Adam Trautman, and Nate Adkins have combined for only 8 catches, 17 yards, and no touchdowns across four games, which simply isn’t enough.
With that in mind, the Broncos should consider making a trade before the November 5 deadline to acquire a dynamic tight end, like Baltimore Ravens star Mark Andrews, a three-time Pro Bowler and former All-Pro who seems to have been overtaken by Isaiah Likely in the Ravens’ offense.
Andrews has seen a diminished role, with Likely leading the Ravens in receptions and yardage through four games. Despite signing a four-year, $56 million extension in 2021, Andrews could be a prime trade candidate.
Acquiring Andrews would instantly make him one of Denver’s top offensive weapons, second only to Courtland Sutton. The trade price could involve sending either Dulcich or Trautman, along with a 2025 draft pick. While the Broncos only have six picks in the 2025 draft, Andrews’ talent would be worth the investment of a mid-to-late round selection.
