Will Jaylen Waddle yield Stefon Diggs-like improvement for Denver?

The Denver Broncos made a massive splash this offseason, acquiring former Alabama standout Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins in a deal involving a first-round pick. For Denver offensive coordinator Davis Webb, the move feels like a historic echo of a past success story.

A Familiar Blueprint

Six years and one day prior to Denver’s acquisition of Waddle, the Buffalo Bills traded a first-round pick to Minnesota for Stefon Diggs. Webb, who served as a backup quarterback in Buffalo during that era, sees striking parallels between that transformation and what is currently unfolding in Colorado for third-year signal-caller Bo Nix.

"There’s some similarities when I was with Josh Allen going into Year 3," Webb said. "Just seeing the growth from both players at that time, there’s some similarities of what’s started to happen here."

Adding a Multiplier

Webb praised Waddle not just for his production—boasting 373 receptions and 5,039 yards across five seasons—but for his presence as a teammate. "He is a blessing to be around. He is a multiplier. He’s a thermostat," Webb noted, crediting GM George Paton and coach Sean Payton for fostering a culture of high-character talent.

Sean Payton echoed that sentiment regarding the former Alabama star, noting that Waddle’s arrival has already elevated the entire wide receiver room during practice sessions.

Looking Ahead at QB

While the Bills saw immediate dividends in 2020—including a deep playoff run—Denver’s path looks slightly different. After a 14-3 season and an AFC Championship Game loss to the New England Patriots, the Broncos are integrating Waddle while managing the health of Nix. The former Auburn star has been sidelined by an ankle injury that required two surgeries, though Payton remains optimistic about his mobility.

"He’s going to be, like, completely clean mobility-wise," Payton said. "One of his great assets is his ability to avoid sacks and escape from the pocket. And I don’t think you’ll see that hindered at all."

Payton expects Nix to participate in work as the team wraps up mandatory minicamp. For more coverage of the professional ranks, visit our NFL page.