Spotrac lists Denver with roughly $30 million in available cap space, placing the 13th-highest total in the NFL. The team’s 2025 performance was balanced across phases, including a top-5 defense (No. 4) and a solid offense (No. 12) in both the regular season and postseason.
The offense could use more skill-position help at wide receiver, especially as Courtland Sutton nears 31 for most of the 2026 season. Sutton’s production trended down late last year, while younger receivers such as Pat Bryant, Marvin Mims Jr., and Troy Franklin took on bigger roles as the year progressed.
In this free-agent scenario, Denver would ink Evans to bolster the WR room and maximize Nix’s chances to contend while under a rookie contract. Evans has long been a Buccaneer staple, but a report from Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports suggests a split from Tampa Bay is likely this offseason, opening the door for a potential one-year move to a contender.
Pauline notes Evans, at 31, has battled injuries lately and played just eight games last season, totaling 30 receptions. While other teams like the Patriots or Bills were floated as fits, Denver presents a compelling roster context—elite defense, proven quarterback, and an offensive line rated by PFF as among the league’s best—in which Evans could still be a dependable, high-impact target on key downs.
If the deal comes together, Evans would provide a veteran, reliable pairing for Nix and a clear upgrade for the Broncos’ passing game on third downs and in tight situations. A one-year contract would help manage risk and salary cap considerations while allowing Denver to maximize its short-term championship window with Nix under a favorable financial arrangement.
Denver’s supporting cast—including a top offensive line with two All-Pros (Garrett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz)—and a strong defense could make Evans’ addition a meaningful, non-sensational upgrade. The scenario underscores Denver’s goal of optimizing its Super Bowl chances in 2026 by balancing proven veterans with a young, developing skill group around Nix.
