Why the Denver Broncos Should Trade Zach Wilson, Tim Patrick, and Javonte Williams This Week

As the Denver Broncos prepare for the upcoming NFL season, decisive moves must be made to optimize the roster. Zach Wilson, Tim Patrick, and Javonte Williams each arrived in Denver under different circumstances but with high expectations. Wilson, once a highly-touted quarterback prospect, was acquired by the Broncos in a trade with the New York Jets, seen as a potential future starter. Tim Patrick joined the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2017 and steadily developed into one of the team’s most reliable receivers. Javonte Williams was drafted by the Broncos in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, brought in to be a cornerstone of the running game. However, despite their talents and contributions, trading these players this week could be a strategic decision that propels the Broncos forward.

1. Zach Wilson: A Valuable Asset in the Trade Market

Zach Wilson, though a promising quarterback, has yet to fully realize his potential in the NFL. Acquired by the Broncos as a developmental project, Wilson now finds himself third string behind both Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham on the depth chart. With limited playing time ahead, his presence on the roster is more of a luxury than a necessity. The emergence of Nix, who has shown considerable promise during training camp and preseason, and the solid play of Stidham, has pushed Wilson further down the depth chart.

Trading Zach Wilson now, while teams are still intrigued by his upside, could yield significant returns. Teams looking to develop a young quarterback, such as the New York Giants, Green Bay Packers, or Minnesota Vikings, may be willing to offer valuable draft picks or players in exchange. This would allow the Broncos to bolster other areas, such as their offensive line or secondary, while avoiding the risk of Wilson’s trade value diminishing if his struggles continue.

2. Tim Patrick: Depth at Receiver Allows for a Trade

Tim Patrick has been a dependable and productive receiver for the Broncos, but Denver’s depth at the position makes him expendable. With young receiver talent like DeVaughn Vele, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and Jalen Virgil showing promise, the Broncos can afford to move on from Patrick. These young players have demonstrated the ability to step up in Patrick’s absence, making the veteran wideout a valuable trade chip.

Patrick’s trade value is strong, especially given the demand for experienced receivers. Teams in need of a reliable wideout, like the New York Giants or the Baltimore Ravens, could be interested in acquiring Patrick. Trading him would free up cap space and potentially bring in a valuable asset, such as a mid-round draft pick or a rotational defensive player, helping to balance the roster.

3. Javonte Williams: A Risky Hold with Promising Replacements

Javonte Williams is a dynamic running back, but he’s coming off a serious knee injury that raises concerns about his long-term durability. While Williams has shown flashes of brilliance, the risk of re-injury or reduced effectiveness is real. The Broncos have promising options in Estime, Batie, and Watson, making Williams more expendable. These young backs have shown the potential to carry the load, reducing the need for Williams in the backfield.

Teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, or Buffalo Bills, who need a dynamic back, could be interested in acquiring Williams. Trading him now could net the Broncos valuable draft capital or a proven veteran player, securing the team’s future while avoiding the potential decline in Williams’ trade value if he struggles post-injury.

Making Strategic Moves Now for Future Success

Trading Zach Wilson, Tim Patrick, and Javonte Williams this week is a strategic move that could benefit the Denver Broncos in the long term. These players could be available due to the emergence of young talent at each position, such as Bo Nix at quarterback, DeVaughn Vele, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and Jalen Virgil at wide receiver, and Estime, Batie, and Watson in the backfield. By dealing these players while their value is high, the Broncos can acquire assets that better align with the team’s needs and long-term goals. This approach not only mitigates risk but also positions the Broncos to build a more balanced and competitive roster as they chase success in the highly competitive AFC West.

The NFL is a business, and making tough decisions is often necessary for sustained success. By proactively managing their assets and capitalizing on market opportunities, the Denver Broncos can ensure they remain a formidable force in the league for years to come.