NFL Rumors: Broncos Tight End Could Be Traded

With the November 1st trade deadline looming, NFL teams have begun scouring rosters for players in need of a fresh start. Pro Football Network's Aaron Wilson reports one such player could be Denver Broncos tight end Albert Okwuegbunam.

NFL teams are interested in trade scenarios for Denver Broncos tight end Albert Okwuegbunam, according to league sources. Third-year former Missouri standout and fourth-round draft pick has seven catches for 50 yards this season, 51 career receptions for 501 yards, three scores
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) October 20, 2022

Okwuegbunam has seen his role shrink this season as the Broncos transition to a new scheme from first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett. After totalling 330 yards on 33 receptions last season, Okwuegbunam's production has plummeted to seven receptions for 50 yards across his five appearances this year. A change of scenery could help both parties.

Okwuegbunam's sudden expendability may have something to do with new Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson's history of deprioritizing tight ends as targets. Jimmy Graham saw his volume drop substantially when linking up with Wilson, falling from 69.8 yards per game in his final four seasons with the New Orleans Saints to 47.6 yards per game during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. Similarly, Greg Olsen dropped to 21.7 yards per game with the Seahawks after averaging 42.6 yards per game during his last season with the Carolina Panthers.

The #Broncos are receiving calls about their TEs with Albert Okwuegbunam drawing the most interest, per ESPN.

The freakish 6'5, 258 pound target was a healthy inactive against the #Chargers on Monday but he's still only 24-years old with 4.49 wheels.pic.twitter.com/8fads9xnVW
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) October 19, 2022

Given his youth and impressive athletic profile, Okwuegbunam would make sense as a low-stakes gamble for any team attempting to improve their tight end depth. The former 118th overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft is still only 24 years old, and his rookie contract doesn't expire until after the 2023 season. He could likely be had for a late-round pick.