Could DK Metcalf Be Headed To Denver? Why ESPN’s Barnwell Likes The Broncos As A Top Landing Spot •• Stig
Could DK Metcalf Be Headed to Denver? Why ESPN’s Barnwell Likes the Broncos as a Top Landing Spot
The Seattle Seahawks may be on the verge of making a significant roster shake-up, and star wide receiver DK Metcalf could be at the center of it. According to ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, the Denver Broncos are one of the most logical destinations should Seattle decide to move on from their Pro Bowl pass-catcher.
Metcalf has been a dominant force since entering the NFL in 2019. Over his six seasons in Seattle, he has hauled in 438 receptions for 6,324 yards and 48 touchdowns, surpassing the 1,000-yard mark three times. At 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds, Metcalf’s blend of size, speed, and strength makes him one of the league’s most physically imposing wide receivers. Even in what some might consider a down year in 2023, he managed 66 catches for 992 yards and five touchdowns in just 15 games.
Now, as speculation grows around his future with the Seahawks, Barnwell has pinpointed the Broncos and the Green Bay Packers as his two preferred destinations for Metcalf.
Why the Broncos Make Sense for Metcalf
If Denver were to acquire Metcalf, he would instantly become a top target for rookie quarterback Bo Nix, alongside veteran wideout Courtland Sutton. While the Broncos have struggled to find consistent offensive production in recent years, Metcalf’s arrival could provide an instant spark.
Head coach Sean Payton has a history of utilizing big-bodied receivers effectively, and Metcalf’s ability to make contested catches and stretch the field fits well with Payton’s offensive schemes. Barnwell notes that Payton has traditionally leaned on physical receivers with large catch radii, and Metcalf would certainly fit that mold.
“Coach Sean Payton has almost always had a receiver in his offenses who thrived with physicality and catch radius,” Barnwell wrote. “Metcalf has the potential to… give Nix a playmaker over the middle of the field.”
With Nix playing on a rookie contract, the Broncos have more financial flexibility to pursue high-caliber talent at other positions, including wide receiver. If Denver truly wants to elevate its offense and surround its young quarterback with weapons, Metcalf could be an ideal fit.
What Would It Cost to Acquire Metcalf?
While the idea of adding Metcalf is exciting for Broncos fans, the logistics of making such a move are complicated. First, there’s the issue of draft capital. Denver is still feeling the effects of the Russell Wilson trade, which depleted the team’s resources for multiple seasons.
“The issue for the Broncos… is draft capital,” Barnwell explained. “They are going to be feeling the impact of the missing draft picks (from the Wilson trade) on their roster for years to come.”
Seattle would likely demand a hefty price for their star receiver, potentially a first-round pick or multiple high selections. Given that Denver is still recovering from past trades, parting with premium draft assets could be a tough pill to swallow.
Then, there’s the financial aspect. Metcalf is set to earn $18 million in 2025, but his cap hit balloons to nearly $32 million. Any team acquiring him would likely need to renegotiate his contract, giving him a long-term extension to make the deal worthwhile. Broncos general manager George Paton and Payton would have to decide whether Metcalf’s potential impact justifies the cost, both in terms of picks and salary.
How Would Metcalf Fit in Denver’s Offense?
If the Broncos pull the trigger on a deal, Metcalf would immediately slot in as the team’s No. 1 or No. 2 option alongside Sutton. With Jerry Jeudy now in Cleveland, Denver lacks a proven deep threat, and Metcalf’s ability to take the top off defenses could open up the passing game.
His physicality would also be a major asset in the red zone. The Broncos struggled in scoring situations last season, ranking in the bottom third of the NFL in red-zone efficiency. Metcalf’s ability to make contested catches and overpower defenders could provide the kind of mismatch Denver desperately needs.
Additionally, his presence would take pressure off Nix, allowing the young quarterback to develop without being forced to carry the offense. Having a reliable target like Metcalf could accelerate Nix’s growth, making the transition to the NFL smoother.
Could Denver Land Another Star Receiver Instead?
While Metcalf is one of the biggest names rumored to be on the move, he isn’t the only elite receiver potentially available. Barnwell also mentioned Davante Adams and Cooper Kupp as players who could be on the Broncos’ radar.
Adams, currently with the Las Vegas Raiders, is an elite route runner and proven game-changer. However, trading for him within the division could be difficult, as the Raiders may be hesitant to strengthen a direct rival.
Kupp, meanwhile, has battled injuries in recent seasons, but when healthy, he remains one of the NFL’s best playmakers. The Los Angeles Rams may be looking to clear cap space, making a deal possible under the right circumstances.
Ultimately, if Denver wants to make a splash at receiver, they have options. But given Metcalf’s age (27) and physical upside, he might be the most attractive long-term investment.
Final Thoughts: Is Metcalf Worth the Gamble?
Adding Metcalf to the Broncos’ offense would undoubtedly make them more dangerous, giving Nix a premier target to grow with. However, the price tag—both in terms of draft capital and contract demands—could complicate any potential deal.
For a team that is still rebuilding from past mistakes, Denver’s front office must weigh the risk of sacrificing future assets for an immediate upgrade. If the Broncos believe they can contend in the near future, taking a big swing for Metcalf could be worth it.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Seattle to see if they truly intend to move their star receiver. If they do, the Broncos will have to decide whether to go all-in on one of the league’s most physically gifted playmakers.
Whether it’s Metcalf, Adams, or Kupp, the Broncos could be making a major move at receiver in the coming days or weeks. And if they do, it could be a game-changing moment for the franchise’s future.
