The Denver Broncos came agonizingly close to a Super Bowl appearance last season, only to see their hopes dashed by an untimely injury to quarterback Bo Nix. But as the 2026 season approaches, the offense remains largely intact—with one massive upgrade.

Enter Jaylen Waddle, the explosive new addition who instantly slots in as the team's No. 1 wide receiver. Veteran Courtland Sutton slides into the No. 2 role, leaving a crucial question: who will step up as the Broncos' WR3?

According to Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport, the answer is Troy Franklin—and it's a move that makes perfect sense for both the team and Nix.

Franklin isn't just a capable third option; he's a natural fit. He and Nix share a history from their college days at Oregon, giving them an instant chemistry that can pay dividends in crucial third-down situations and red-zone sets. But the connection goes beyond nostalgia.

Statistically, Franklin was already the Broncos' second-most productive receiver in 2025. He hauled in 65 passes on 104 targets for 709 yards and six touchdowns. Only Sutton, with 74 catches for 1,017 yards and seven scores, had a bigger impact. That production makes Franklin the clear frontrunner for the WR3 role.

Other candidates included Pat Bryant and Marvin Mims. Bryant's skill set overlaps heavily with Sutton's, limiting his versatility, while Mims is more of a gadget player and return specialist. Franklin, by contrast, offers a well-rounded game that complements the top two receivers without redundancy.

For a Broncos offense looking to build on last year's near-miss, Franklin as WR3 isn't just a logical choice—it's the kind of seamless fit that could help elevate Nix and the entire unit to new heights.