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Broncos’ new wide receiver Jaylen Waddle’s explosive athleticism and versatility will be a key asset for the team’s offense.Denver Today
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton expressed excitement about the team’s acquisition of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins. Payton praised Waddle’s speed, route-running, and versatility, saying the Broncos plan to utilize him in various packages and positions to take advantage of his dynamic playmaking abilities.
Why it matters
The addition of Waddle gives the Broncos’ offense another explosive weapon alongside star receiver Courtland Sutton. Payton’s comments suggest the team plans to get creative in finding ways to maximize Waddle’s skill set, which could make the Broncos’ passing attack even more dangerous in the upcoming season.
The details
Payton said the Broncos won’t simply slot Waddle in as the No. 1 or No. 2 receiver, but will instead find ways to utilize his versatility. Waddle is known for his speed, hip transition, and route-running ability, and Payton plans to line him up both in the slot and outside. The Broncos acquired Waddle and a fourth-round pick from the Dolphins in exchange for first-, third-, and fourth-round selections.
The Broncos acquired Waddle and a fourth-round pick on March 17, 2026.Payton’s comments came at the NFL’s annual meeting in Phoenix on March 31, 2026.
The players
Sean Payton
The head coach of the Denver Broncos, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to get the most out of his playmakers.
A 27-year-old wide receiver who was acquired by the Broncos from the Miami Dolphins. Waddle is known for his explosive speed, dynamic route-running, and versatility.
Courtland Sutton
A two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Broncos, who led the team in catches, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns last season.
Bo Nix
The starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, who will have another talented receiving option in Waddle to target.
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What they’re saying
“We’re not just going to have, and I know someone’s getting ready to ask me, ‘Is he receiver (No.) 1 or 2?’ So we don’t have (that). We just play different packages and try to give those guys the things that they do well.”
— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos
“The best thing that I think he does is he’s explosive; he’s dynamic. A lot of times, the guys run fast, but I think he sends his hips in transition. I think you’ll see him play inside in the slot; you’ll see him outside.”
— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos
“Whenever you get into a big-name free agent or a trade of this magnitude, all the other stuff is important to research. When it comes to Waddle’s all the other stuff, it was 10, 10, 10, 10, 10. So I think, obviously, it will help us.”
— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos
“I don’t think there are No. 1s; everyone is here to make plays and try to win. That’s ultimately the goal for the team and for the organization.”
— Jaylen Waddle
What’s next
The Broncos will continue to integrate Waddle into their offense during the offseason program and training camp, as they look to maximize his versatility and explosiveness alongside Courtland Sutton and the rest of their receiving corps.
The takeaway
The addition of Jaylen Waddle gives the Broncos’ offense another dynamic playmaker, and head coach Sean Payton’s comments suggest the team plans to get creative in finding ways to utilize Waddle’s unique skill set. This could make the Broncos’ passing attack even more potent in the upcoming season as they look to build on their success from the previous year.