Mile High Report
In our five Future Broncos segments to date, we’ve covered a lot of bases thus far. We kicked things off with analyzing the slate of picks the Denver Broncos hold the 2026 NFL Draft and what I believe to be their biggest needs. Over the past several weeks, we have discussed various prospects to bolster the offensive and defensive lines, inside linebacker core, as well potential long-term solutions at tight end.
For today’s installment, I thought it might be apt to go over some of the wide receiver prospects available in this year’s draft. The Broncos wide receiver room has a lot of talent. Courtland Sutton has performed well to start the season continuing a trend that dates back to after the BYE last season. Both Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims Jr. have also flashed big-play ability through four games. While, I’m optimistic Pat Bryant can develop into a quality receiver, but the rookie wideout has just two receptions for 18 yards thus far.
When factoring in drafting for need it’s also important to keep tabs of the future. There are two realties to consider when contemplating whether or not the Broncos should utilize an early selection at wide receiver. Mims is scheduled to be a free agent after the 2026 season. Additionally, Sutton’s cap number will skyrocket to nearly $28.5 million in 2027, which is more than double what he is making in ‘25 and slated to earn in ‘26.
Given Denver’s large cap investments elsewhere over the next few seasons, I have a feeling this is a position group where they will continue to add through the draft. I think this year’s class of receivers looks pretty good. Listed below are two prospects that really piqued my interest
Chris Brazzell II — Tennessee Volunteers
At 6’5″ and 200 pounds, wide receiver Chris Brazell II certainly fits the physical profile Head Coach Sean Payton prefers at the position. Payton has emphasized routinely throughout his tenure in Denver how having big and physical receivers is preferable for his scheme. Brazell is prototypical X wide receiver that has the makeup and talent to be a long-term replacement for Sutton.
After spending his first two years at Tulane, the fourth-year collegiate wideout took his talents to the SEC last season. In thirteen games in 2024, he had just 29 catches for 333 yards and 2 touchdowns. But this season, the Volunteers’ top receiver has taken his game to the next level. He already has notched 31 catches for 531 yards and 7 touchdowns on the season. For perspective, that is the second most yards and the most touchdowns of any player on college football.
His estimated 40-yard dash time is a shade under 4.5 seconds. However, his on the field athleticism looks a lot more impressive than that. He is a consistent separator that does a great job accruing yardage after the catch. With his frame and wingspan, Brazell does well at high pointing contested catches. There are a lot of great...
