Broncos Have Best Chance to 'Win Big' of Teams Without First-Round Pick

Denver's roster is seen as one of the most complete in the NFL despite lacking a first-round selection.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:20am

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The Denver Broncos may not have a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, but they are still viewed as one of the top contenders for the Super Bowl in 2026. Despite losing some key free agents, the Broncos made a big trade for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and are expected to have one of the most complete rosters in the league under head coach Sean Payton.

Why it matters

The Broncos' ability to remain a top contender without a first-round pick highlights their strong roster construction and the belief that Payton can get the most out of his players. This could be a model for other teams looking to build a championship-caliber team without premium draft capital.

The details

The Broncos traded away their first-round pick to acquire Waddle, leaving them with only seven total selections and just one in the top 100. However, analysts like CBS Sports' Josh Edwards believe Denver still has the best chance to 'win big' among teams without a first-rounder, citing the team's deep playoff run last season and the belief that Payton can maximize the roster's potential.

  • The Broncos made the trade for Waddle earlier this offseason.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for next month.

The players

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, known for his ability to get the most out of his players and build winning teams.

Jaylen Waddle

The wide receiver acquired by the Broncos in a trade, adding another dynamic playmaker to their offense.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' starting quarterback who suffered a season-ending foot injury in the AFC Championship game last season.

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What they’re saying

“Denver advanced deeper in the playoffs than any of these other teams. The Patriots ousted them in the AFC Championship after Bo Nix succumbed to a season-ending foot injury. They lost more than they added in free agency, but took a big swing by trading for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. Sean Payton's team sum has been greater than the sum of its parts. There is no reason to believe that is going to change.”

— Josh Edwards, CBS Sports Writer

“The roster is not perfect and there are pitfalls, specifically injuries, which could derail the season, but that could be true of any team.”

— Josh Edwards, CBS Sports Writer

What’s next

The Broncos will look to build on their strong roster in the upcoming draft, despite lacking a first-round pick. They will need to find value in the later rounds to continue improving their team.

The takeaway

The Broncos' ability to remain a top contender without a first-round pick showcases the strength of their roster construction and the faith in head coach Sean Payton's ability to maximize the team's potential. This could serve as a model for other teams looking to build championship-caliber rosters without premium draft capital.