Denver Broncos reportedly considering trade after star WR officially requests trade

The Denver Broncos have made several calculated and discreet trades ahead of the 2024 season, but outside of selecting Bo Nix in the first round, the offseason has been devoid of a big-time move.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has asked the San Francisco 49ers to trade him and the Broncos are expected to talk to 49ers general manager John Lynch about a deal.

The Broncos also have a contract issue with Courtland Sutton, so perhaps a deal could be worked out where Sutton is sent to San Francisco as part of a deal that sends Aiyuk to Denver. There’s also that three-team trade idea being floated by CBS.

Where do you think Brandon Aiyuk will be week 1? 🤔

h/t @Marcus_Mosherhttps://t.co/6coA8Ute7k pic.twitter.com/e3LBibU6Dk

— Team 33 (@The33rdTeamFB) July 13, 2024

Denver Broncos reportedly interested in Brandon Aiyuk

It may seem counterproductive to replace Sutton with Aiyuk, but a change of scenery could be what they both need. Sutton would fit well in San Francisco’s system and Aiyuk could provide the kind of consistent, dynamic option to help Nix’s career move in the right direction.

Here’s a look at Aiyuk’s career stats:

Last season, his 17.9 yards per reception ranked second in the NFL, behind George Pickens of the Pittsburgh Steelers (18.1). He posted those numbers while playing on the same team as Deebo Samuel, which is something to consider.

In Denver, he would have the chance to become a No. 1 receiver, which he has the ability to be. He’s only 26 and still has plenty of talent left in him.

It’s not the kind of move you’d expect the Broncos to make given the team took a conservative approach after the disaster that was the Russell Wilson trade, but it’s not often that a player of Aiyuk’s caliber is available.

The team should consider giving it a try.