Stephen A. Smith says Broncos are the team to beat in AFC
The Denver Broncos got better with the Jaylen Waddle trade, and have proven themselves to be a complete team.
One of sport's most widespread voices has put the NFL, specifically the AFC, on notice: the Denver Broncos are the team to beat. Shortly after the Broncos traded for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, Smith spoke about the deal on The Stephen A. Smith Show , where he praised the Denver decision-makers.
"Denver made the move for Waddle following its loss in the AFC Championship game," said Smith. "Waddle finished the year with 64 receptions, 910 yards, six touchdowns... Financially, the Broncos will be responsible for about $5 million of Waddle's $15.
416 million guaranteed salary in 2026... I think this puts the Denver Broncos in a big-time situation right now. The Denver Broncos have to be looked upon as the favorites in the AFC.
" You can view Smith's comments on the Broncos , starting around the two-minute mark, below. The Broncos retained most of their roster from their breakout 2025 campaign, and are looking for even more pieces as time passes. Denver made it to the AFC Championship, and they believe at Dove Valley, Jaylen Waddle could put them over the top to get to Super Bowl LXI.