Tyler Lockett’s journey with the Seattle Seahawks has taken a surprising turn. The wide receiver, who was a third-round pick out of Kansas State, has officially parted ways with the organization after a decade of significant contributions. At 32 years old, Lockett’s release potentially opens the door for teams like the Denver Broncos, who are in desperate need of reinforcements at the wide receiver position.
The Broncos’ receiving corps faced challenges last season, with Courtland Sutton as the standout performer but lacking the depth to complement him effectively. Marvin Mims stepped up as the WR2, but with only 503 receiving yards on 39 catches, it’s clear the Broncos could use more firepower on the outside.
Throughout his career, Lockett has put up impressive numbers, totaling 8,594 receiving yards—a stats line that averages out to about 907 yards over a hypothetical 17-game season. While his production saw a dip in 2024, with just 600 yards and 49 receptions, it’s worth noting that he still outperformed Mims. If Lockett can transition into a role similar to what Adam Thielen has done later in his career, it would be a huge win for the Broncos.
Why the Broncos Should Make a Move
The Seahawks’ decision to release Lockett can largely be attributed to their recent draft of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a talented first-round pick who thrives in the same slot role as Lockett. Smith-Njigba made an immediate impact last season, hauling in 100 passes for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns in just 17 games. It was a logical step for the Seahawks to pivot towards their younger star, ultimately leading to Lockett’s departure.
Now, for the Broncos, adding Lockett could be an astute move. Given his age, he would likely come at a reasonable cost and fill a critical gap as either a WR3 or WR4 in the offense. With promising quarterback Bo Nix coming off a rookie season where he threw for 3,775 yards with 29 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions, Lockett could serve as a vital safety valve. Nix’s passing game may not be centered on long bombs, which is more in line with Lockett’s strengths as a reliable slot receiver and expert route runner.
Having a veteran presence like Lockett could greatly aid in Nix’s development, helping the young quarterback adjust to the complexities of the NFL. The Broncos could find themselves with a dynamic duo, leveraging Lockett’s experience and skills to enhance their aerial attack.
In short, signing Tyler Lockett would not only address an immediate need but also provide leadership and stability to the Broncos as they look to build a competitive roster around their young quarterback. This move could prove pivotal in setting the stage for a more explosive offense in Denver.
