Broncos Never Considered Trading for A.J. Brown

Denver instead acquired Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:10pm

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The Denver Broncos did not have any interest in trading for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, despite rumors connecting the two teams. Instead, the Broncos made a deal to acquire Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins.

Why it matters

The Broncos were in need of another offensive weapon to help them make a Super Bowl run, and Brown was seen as a potential target. However, the team ultimately decided to go in a different direction and trade for Waddle, who was also rumored to be on their radar.

The details

According to reports, the Broncos' front office never seriously considered trading for Brown, despite the wide receiver's uncertain future in Philadelphia. Instead, the team finalized a deal to acquire Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins on Tuesday. The Broncos may have seen Brown as a potential locker room disruption, and the asking price from the Eagles' GM Howie Roseman may have been too high.

  • The Broncos lost to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game in the 2025 season.
  • Rumors of the Broncos' interest in trading for A.J. Brown surfaced immediately following their playoff loss.
  • The Broncos completed a trade to acquire Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The players

A.J. Brown

A wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles who has been the subject of trade rumors.

Jaylen Waddle

A wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins who the Broncos acquired in a trade.

Howie Roseman

The general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles who is reportedly demanding a high price for A.J. Brown.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos.

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What they’re saying

“The idea was never considered by the team's front office.”

— Dianna Russini, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Broncos will look to integrate Jaylen Waddle into their offense as they aim to make a Super Bowl run in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Broncos opted to trade for Jaylen Waddle instead of pursuing A.J. Brown, likely due to concerns about Brown's potential impact on the locker room and the high asking price from the Eagles. This move demonstrates the Broncos' commitment to building a well-rounded offense around quarterback Russell Wilson.