Former Alabama receiver starts work with Broncos: ‘He’s a special dude’

The Denver Broncos have officially integrated their biggest offseason acquisition into the mix. During recent OTA practices, the team got its first look at star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle donning the orange and blue.

A High-Stakes Trade

On March 17, the Broncos finalized a blockbuster trade with the Miami Dolphins. Denver sent first-, third-, and fourth-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft to Miami in exchange for the former Alabama standout and an additional fourth-round selection.

Teammates and Coaches Weigh In

Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton has been impressed by the newcomer's unique skillset. "He’s a special dude," Sutton said. "He has tremendous speed. His speed and acceleration paired together are top tier. Once the ball gets in his hand, he’s trying to get to the end zone. It’s fun to be able to watch it up close and personal."

Head coach Sean Payton noted that the staff had a clear vision for how to utilize Waddle before the trade was even executed. "There was a crystal-clear vision... as to what we see, where he plays, and the things that we feel like he’s exceptional at," Payton explained. "You can just feel his instincts and his quickness."

Building Chemistry

Waddle is already embracing the opportunity to contribute in Denver. "I’m just out here just trying to make plays with a great group of guys," Waddle said. Regarding his teammate, Sutton, Waddle added, "Courtland’s an elite playmaker. So anytime you have a playmaker on the other side of you, it just makes it easy."

The transition to working with quarterback Bo Nix is also underway, though the process is gradual as the former Auburn and Pinson Valley star recovers from ankle surgeries following the AFC playoffs. Waddle noted that he is already seeing leadership traits in the young quarterback, stating, "He loves talking ball. He’s going to be a great leader."

A Proven Track Record

Waddle entered the league as the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft after a standout career at Alabama. Since then, he has established himself as one of the most productive receivers in the league.

• 2021: Broke the NFL rookie record with 104 receptions for 1,015 yards and six touchdowns.
• 2022: Led the NFL with 18.1 yards per reception, tallying 1,356 yards and eight scores.
• 2023: Recorded his third consecutive 1,000-yard season.
• 2025: Posted 64 receptions for 910 yards and six touchdowns.

With a career total of 373 receptions, 5,039 yards, and 26 touchdowns, Waddle is among the 24 players in NFL history to reach those benchmarks within their first five seasons.

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