Marvin Mims

Mims' value to Denver is as a two-time Pro Bowl returner and 'extension of the run game' rather than a target earner; season PPR #53 at 7.2 PPG reflects a low offensive ceiling even on a playoff team. Return-game value does not translate to standard dynasty scoring.

The Broncos' March 2026 Jaylen Waddle acquisition (cost: No. 30 overall pick + 3rd + 4th swap) buried Mims as an effective WR5 behind Sutton, Waddle, Franklin, and Bryant. His target share only spiked to 19–22% in the final two weeks of 2025 when Franklin and Bryant were banged up — that injury-driven window is now even narrower.

Mims receives targets predominantly in the short/slot game with limited downfield usage. His 322 yards across 37 catches suggests minimal big-play potential, capping fantasy upside despite involvement.

Mims' 2026 salary could escalate from $1.58M to approximately $5.66M due to back-to-back Pro Bowl selections triggering Proven Performance Escalator clauses, making him more expensive to retain. This creates trade or roster flexibility risks if Denver views him as a luxury piece rather than core offensive player.

ESPN named Mims the NFL's top gadget player — a double-edged distinction. Roughly 70% of his 2024 targets came behind the line of scrimmage, confirming he's an extension of the run game rather than a route-runner. His 2025 line of 37 rec / 322 yards / 1 TD underscores a hard ceiling in any PPR format without role expansion.

Mims enters 2026 in his final rookie contract year, but the Broncos have locked in significant cap commitments to Sutton and Waddle, making an extension for a WR5 gadget player impractical. A post-2026 release or free-agent walk is a realistic outcome, and Mims himself publicly questioned his role after the Waddle trade.

Mims was named All-Pro punch returner and Pro Bowl returner specialist in 2025 (15.7 yards per punt return, 26 returns). Special teams production provides consistent scoring floor and differentiates his dynasty value.

Multiple reports confirmed the Broncos are fielding trade calls on Mims and Franklin post-Waddle. A trade to a WR-needy offense would immediately reset Mims's dynasty ceiling — his elite speed and 2nd-round draft pedigree profile well as a WR2/3 elsewhere. The window to sell high is now, before the roster crunch cements his gadget label league-wide.

Mims is the most expendable piece on an overcrowded Denver WR depth chart and is the most logical trade chip; a move to a WR-needy offense would immediately unlock his elite speed profile and restore dynasty relevance overnight.

2026 is his final rookie contract year, creating a natural reset point — if he can earn a free-agent deal with a team that has genuine WR need, his age-24 profile at that point remains attractive.

At 23.9 years old, Mims remains in his offensive window for upside. If Franklin or Bryant suffer injury, or if Denver's WR room changes via draft/free agency, there's a clear path to expanded opportunity.

Mims delivered standout playoff performances when thrust into expanded roles due to Franklin and Bryant injuries, posting 8-93-1 vs Buffalo and leading the team in receiving. These clutch moments could signal untapped offensive upside if opportunity materializes in 2026.