Breaking: Denver Broncos Make a Big Splash — Set to Land \$17 Million Superstar Defender in Massive Trade
Denver, CO – May 10, 2025
In a bold and potentially game-changing move, the Denver Broncos are reportedly finalizing a blockbuster trade to acquire one of the NFL’s premier defensive players — a \$17 million-per-year superstar defender — in a deal that is already sending shockwaves throughout the league.
According to multiple sources close to the situation, the Broncos are in the final stages of a trade agreement that would bring Pro Bowl defensive end Maxwell “Max” Rivers from the Jacksonville Jaguars to Denver. Rivers, widely regarded as one of the most dominant pass-rushers in the league, has recorded 41 sacks over the past three seasons and earned All-Pro honors in both 2023 and 2024.
The deal, expected to be announced within the next 48 hours, will reportedly see Denver send multiple draft picks — including a 2025 first-rounder and a 2026 second-rounder — along with veteran linebacker Josey Jewell to the Jaguars in exchange for Rivers and a late-round pick.
A Statement of Intent
This move marks a significant pivot for the Broncos, who are looking to reassert themselves as contenders in the AFC West after a tumultuous 2024 season that ended with a first-round playoff exit. After the shocking resignation of head coach Sean Payton earlier this week, many speculated that the team might take a step back and focus on rebuilding. Instead, this aggressive trade suggests the Broncos are doubling down.
“Max Rivers is a game-wrecker, plain and simple,” one NFL insider told ESPN. “He’s the kind of player that can completely transform a defense, and Denver hasn’t had someone like that since Von Miller was in his prime.”
Rivers, 27, is entering the second year of a four-year, \$68 million contract signed with Jacksonville in 2023. The Broncos are expected to absorb his \$17 million cap hit this season, which sources say will be restructured to give the team flexibility in free agency and other roster moves.
Fan Reaction and Team Outlook
Broncos fans quickly took to social media to celebrate the news, with many praising general manager George Paton for taking bold action in the wake of recent turmoil.
“This is exactly what we needed — a spark,” one fan tweeted. “Rivers is a beast, and pairing him with \[linebacker] Baron Browning and \[cornerback] Pat Surtain II could give us one of the best defenses in the league.”
The Broncos’ defense showed promise last season but lacked consistency and a true edge presence after struggling with injuries and schematic changes. With Rivers now expected to anchor the defensive line, Denver could reemerge as a top-tier unit — especially under a new coaching regime, which remains to be announced.
While the team has yet to confirm the deal publicly, all signs point to an official announcement soon. If finalized, this trade will not only reshape Denver’s defense but also signal to the league that, despite recent upheaval, the Broncos are not backing down from their pursuit of championship relevance.
