After recent trade failures, Broncos should exercise caution while pursuing Colts RB Jonathan Taylor

Broncos have lost recent blockbuster trades 

Let's not forget that when the Broncos sent five draft picks (including two first-rounders) and three players to the Seattle Seahawks for quarterback Russell Wilson in 2022, completing one of the worst trades in NFL history. Wilson went 11-19 in the regular season for Denver before it released him in 2024. Seattle, meanwhile, used those picks to launch its Super Bowl run last season. 

Broncos third-year QB Bo Nix has since replaced Wilson, going 30-12 in his first 42 regular-season starts. Denver has improved at the most important position, but it's not improved at trading. 

This offseason, the Broncos sent three picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, including a first-rounder, to the Miami Dolphins for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. The wideout has underwhelmed thus far, averaging a career-low 39.4 receiving yards per game in eight contests (29 receptions for 315 yards). 

Not all blame falls on Waddle. Nix, who is logging a below-average six yards per attempt this season, has often hesitated to push the ball downfield. Still, the WR's struggles raise questions about whether Denver should've kept its picks. It could've used one to select an up-and-coming pass-catcher.  

The Dolphins flipped the first-rounder (pick No. 30) from the Waddle deal to the San Francisco 49ers, who subsequently sent it to the New York Jets. The Jets used it to select WR Omar Cooper Jr. Through four games, he's averaging 62 receiving yards per game (12 receptions for 248 yards). 

Should Broncos still pursue Jonathan Taylor? 

The Broncos should still pursue Taylor, but shouldn't trade too much for him. Relinquishing multiple first-round picks for a 27-year-old RB could be unwise. The position's nature gives it a shorter shelf life. 

The emergence of rookie RB Jonah Coleman should make the Broncos more comfortable passing on Taylor. Against Kansas City, the fourth-round pick had 104 yards (41 rushing, 63 receiving) and one rushing touchdown. 

If Denver's unsure Coleman will continue progressing, it can trade for a cheaper RB option, perhaps Tony Pollard (Tennessee Titans). The one-time Pro Bowler ranks ninth in the league in rushing yards (595 on 133 carries). 

The Broncos' Super Bowl window is wide open. It'll close if Denver keeps giving up multiple draft picks for little in return. The AFC West team must remember that during trade talks for Taylor.