The Denver Broncos ushered in a new era with Bo Nix in 2024, and he delivered a historic season, leading them to their first playoff appearance since 2015. To further support Nix’s growth, the Broncos may consider targeting Keenan Allen in free agency.
A six-time Pro Bowler and the 2017 AP Comeback Player of the Year, Allen was drafted 76th overall by the Los Angeles Chargers. He played the 2024 season with the Chicago Bears.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report highlighted Allen’s appeal among veteran receivers like Stefon Diggs, Amari Cooper, and Brandin Cooks, describing him as a reliable target with strong hands, precise route-running, and red-zone effectiveness.
“Teams interested in Cooper Kupp should also take a look at Allen,” Knox wrote on March 16, citing a report from The Athletic’s Jeff Howe that linked Denver to Kupp.
Knox also noted that Allen would be a great addition to the Broncos’ offense, complementing Marvin Mims Jr. and Devaughn Vele either on the perimeter or in the slot. His skill set and experience could be valuable in aiding young quarterback Bo Nix’s development.
Keenan Allen Came on Strong For Bears Down Stretch
In 2024, Keenan Allen recorded 70 receptions for 744 yards and seven touchdowns, though he missed two games—a recurring pattern in his career. However, a five-game stretch from Weeks 12 to 16 showcased his potential when fully healthy, as he tallied 32 catches for 412 yards and five touchdowns.
Early in the season, Allen struggled to find his rhythm with the Chicago Bears, managing just 17 receptions for 161 yards in his first five games. However, he later emerged as a key target despite the team’s struggles.
“The Athletic’s David DeChant, Jourdan Rodrigue, and Vic Tafur noted in February that while Allen was never known for his speed, he appeared noticeably slower last season and faced some uncharacteristic issues with his hands—though he was officially credited with only six drops.”
“Perhaps the cold weather played a role, as Allen expressed a desire to return to the Los Angeles area if he doesn’t remain with the Bears—a scenario that seems unlikely since he isn’t an ideal fit for Ben Johnson’s spread offense,” The Athletic staff wrote.
That evaluation could present challenges for both Allen and the Broncos in a potential partnership.
Although Sean Payton’s offensive system aligns well with Allen’s skill set, Denver’s colder climate might not be an ideal fit for him.
Broncos Content With Young WRs Amid Keenan Allen Suggestion
During the 2024 season, the Broncos parted ways with one of their three veteran wide receivers, Josh Reynolds. Despite an otherwise aggressive offseason, they have shown restraint in pursuing veteran receivers, a trend that may continue.
Nick Kosmider of The Athletic highlighted Denver’s lack of urgency in targeting external veterans, including Cooper Kupp, and suggested the team might prioritize drafting a receiver instead.
“None of this is surprising if you’ve listened to Payton discuss his receivers this season,” Kosmider wrote on March 17. “He has shown interest in extending Courtland Sutton following his best season at age 29 and is pleased with the development of young receivers Marvin Mims Jr., Devaughn Vele, and Troy Franklin. A.T. Perry, who spent most of last season on the practice squad, is also an intriguing prospect. Meanwhile, Trent Sherfield was primarily signed for special teams but brings veteran experience at receiver.”
Kosmider added, “Still, there is always a need for more receiving talent, especially at a cost-controlled price.”
The Broncos currently hold the No. 20 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and have $15.6 million in available cap space, according to Over The Cap. However, that figure is subject to change depending on their draft class signings and any potential contract restructures involving veteran players.
Keenan Allen has amassed $132.9 million in career earnings, and Spotrac projects his market value at a two-year, $22.2 million deal. That price tag could push him beyond the Broncos’ financial interest.
Josh Buckhalter covers the NBA and NFL for Heavy.com and has been reporting on both leagues since 2016. His work has appeared in FanSided, Last Word on Sports, and Clocker Sports. He is based in Villa Park, Illinois. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram: @JoshGBuck.
