Broncos Evan Engram Emerges in 11th-Hour Trade Buzz as Deadline Nears

Interest, but a difficult deal

With the deadline set for 2 p.m. MDT on Tuesday, teams are making final arrangements. Fowler said Engram is drawing interest around the league, but moving him is considered unlikely because Denver has no replacement ready.

Fowler also reported that the Broncos have called around about the possibility. Denver has been viewed as a buyer with a 7-2 record, though running back J.K. Dobbins has also surfaced in trade discussions.

Denver’s tight end search

The Broncos have explored the tight end market for potential upgrades. Trey McBride, a preferred target, plays for a team with no interest in trading him. Detroit’s Sam LaPorta is another possible option, but the Lions have told teams he is unavailable. LaPorta is in a contract year and has publicly expressed disappointment about not receiving an extension.

Engram’s role and production

Engram is in his second season with Denver and has not matched the output expected from his two-year, $23 million contract. He finished third on the team in 2025 with 50 receptions, 461 yards and one touchdown.

He has been less involved this year, although quarterback Bo Nix’s early-season slump also affected the offense. In Denver’s 26-21 victory over the Carolina Panthers, Engram caught four of five targets for 33 yards.

Replacement options and priorities

The Broncos’ other tight ends include rookie Dallen Bentley, who has been a healthy scratch all season, along with Adam Trautman and Nate Adkins. Trautman and Adkins are described as blocking tight ends who line up in-line.

Engram has taken more in-line snaps this season, despite being used as an F tight end and mismatch option. The article says Denver’s difficulties getting him favorable matchups could stem from age, Nix’s reluctance to target the middle of the field, or the scheme and play-calling; it does not settle on a cause.

Denver has reportedly shown more interest in tight end and safety than running back. Jonah Coleman’s emergence is cited as a reason, though the article questions whether a new tight end could help the offense as much as an experienced running back.