Breaking News: Denver Broncos Land Towering 7-Foot Wide Receiver from Cincinnati Bengals Amid Depth Crisis
Denver, CO — June 21, 2025
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Denver Broncos have acquired 7-foot wide receiver Malik Henderson from the Cincinnati Bengals in a high-stakes trade aimed at addressing Denver’s ongoing depth issues at the wide receiver position.
The Broncos confirmed the blockbuster deal early Friday morning, just days after multiple injuries rocked their wide receiver corps during minicamp. Henderson, a towering and physically imposing target, becomes the tallest wide receiver in NFL history and an instant focal point of a Denver offense desperate for playmakers.
TRADE DETAILS
Sources tell ESPN and NFL Network that the Broncos sent a 2026 third-round pick and a conditional 2027 fifth-rounder to Cincinnati in exchange for Henderson. The trade also includes performance-based escalators that could push the deal’s value higher, should Henderson hit certain receiving milestones this season.
The 24-year-old wideout had been a part of the Bengals’ development program after signing as an undrafted free agent in 2023. Though he played sparingly during his rookie season, Henderson made waves in 2024 with his red zone dominance and exceptional catch radius, recording 34 receptions for 411 yards and six touchdowns in a limited role.
A TOWERING PRESENCE
At 7 feet tall and weighing 248 pounds, Henderson has a wingspan comparable to that of an NBA center. He’s drawn comparisons to former NFL tight ends and even some power forwards, but he runs a 4.58-second 40-yard dash and possesses surprisingly fluid footwork for his size.
“Malik is unlike any player we’ve seen in this league,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton during a press conference Friday afternoon. “His size creates matchup nightmares, especially in the red zone. We believe he can step in right away and become a difference-maker.”
Payton added that the Broncos had been closely monitoring Henderson since last season and had tried to acquire him earlier this offseason before talks stalled.
BRONCOS’ RECEIVER WOES PROMPT ACTION
The trade comes at a time of dire need for the Broncos. The team has lost two key receivers—Tim Patrick and rookie standout Reggie Wallace—to injuries that could sideline both well into the 2025 season. With Courtland Sutton still rehabbing from offseason knee surgery and Jerry Jeudy entering a contract year with uncertainty about his future, Denver’s receiving unit was rapidly becoming a liability.
“This was about more than just filling a hole,” said Broncos GM George Paton. “We needed a spark, someone who brings a different dynamic to our offense. Malik fits that mold perfectly.”
BENGALS’ PERSPECTIVE
For Cincinnati, the decision to part ways with Henderson wasn’t made lightly. The Bengals are reportedly deep at the position, with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and speedster Andrel Anthony all returning to full health. Henderson’s role appeared limited in the crowded receiver room, and the Bengals saw an opportunity to turn their surplus into future draft capital.
“We love Malik and what he brought to our team, but sometimes the business side of the game dictates these decisions,” Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said. “We wish him nothing but success in Denver.”
IMMEDIATE IMPACT IN DENVER
Henderson is expected to report to the Broncos’ facility this weekend and begin working with quarterback Bo Nix immediately. With Denver’s first preseason game just seven weeks away, the coaching staff is eager to integrate Henderson into the offense quickly.
Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi said he envisions using Henderson in multiple formations, including outside receiver sets, slot mismatches, and tight end alignments. “You can’t teach 7 feet,” Lombardi joked. “We’ll find ways to get him the ball.”
LEAGUE REACTION
Social media exploded with reactions following the trade announcement. Former NFL receiver Dez Bryant tweeted, “7 feet? Man that ain’t fair. He’s gonna be a problem in the red zone.” Analysts have already begun speculating whether Henderson could become the next big-name breakout star if he meshes well with the Broncos’ scheme.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Broncos, entering year two of the Sean Payton era, are trying to rebound from a frustrating 7–10 finish in 2024. With a revamped offensive line, a promising young quarterback, and now a game-changing wide receiver, the pieces are beginning to fall into place.
If Henderson lives up to the hype, the trade could go down as one of the savviest mid-off season moves in recent memory.
“This is just the beginning,” said Henderson himself in a brief statement. “I’m ready to work. Denver, let’s go.”
