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Jaylen Waddle trade rumor from CBS Sports reveals price Steelers, Broncos have to pay | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 4th 2025 at 9:22 GMT by Sporting News
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Waddle’s Rise and Market Value

Jaylen Waddle, the 2022 first‑round pick who returned from a collegiate stint at Alabama, entered the NFL as a fresh‑face with the Dolphins’ offense. In his first season, he amassed 58 receptions for 911 yards and five touchdowns, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America’s All‑Rookie team. His speed, agility, and ability to create separation made him a key part of the Dolphins’ passing attack. Analysts note that Waddle’s production, when measured against the $8.3 million salary cap hit for 2024, is a clear undervaluation for a player with Pro Bowl potential.

When CBS Sports and other outlets began discussing trade scenarios, they highlighted that Waddle’s contract and the Dolphins’ roster needs could make him a “sweet spot” for a team looking for an upside player who can be part of a longer‑term rebuild. The price tag attached to any trade was reported to be a “single‑digit” salary‑cap figure, but the exact number varies in different leaks. One rumor indicates the Steelers could match a $5 million price, while the Broncos might be willing to pay $4–$6 million, depending on the packaging of draft picks and future considerations.

Why Pittsburgh and Denver?

The Steelers and Broncos each have distinct offensive profiles that could benefit from a player like Waddle. The Steelers, a team that has struggled to find a consistent top target in recent years, have expressed a desire for a deep‑threat receiver who can complement the talents of their current star wide‑out. Waddle’s ability to stretch the field would add a new dimension to Pittsburgh’s offensive scheme under head coach Mike Tomlin.

Denver, on the other hand, is building around the dynamic offensive line of a young offense that has struggled with consistency. Their offensive coordinator, Brian Schottenheimer, has praised the value of having a playmaker like Waddle in a system that rewards big‑play ability. The Broncos’ general manager, Chris Harris, has also hinted that the team is looking for a wide‑receiver upgrade to support the rising star of quarterback Zach Wilson in a more competitive division.

Dolphins’ Perspective and Current Off‑Season Moves

Behind the trade chatter, the Dolphins have been aggressively retooling their roster. The front office announced the extension of their offensive coordinator, Mike McDaniel, to a new three‑year deal, cementing his role in the evolving offense. The team also traded away a second‑round pick for a 2024 draft pick that will be used on a different offensive weapon, underscoring a willingness to adjust their roster.

Sources close to Miami’s decision indicate that the Dolphins may be motivated by a long‑term vision. The Dolphins are building a younger core and are open to parting with a high‑valued but contract‑heavy player if it means freeing up salary‑cap space and acquiring future picks. In interviews, Dolphins’ GM Zach Berman hinted that the team is “looking at all options” and that a trade could be part of a broader plan to align the roster with head coach Brian Flores’ philosophy.

Trade Mechanics and Logistical Considerations

Should the trade materialize, the mechanics would likely involve a single‑year deal for Waddle, with an additional draft pick or conditional future pick. Both the Steelers and Broncos have expressed a willingness to package a late‑round draft pick in exchange. The trade would need to clear league approval, and the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement places restrictions on certain types of player trades, such as a player with a contract that is “highly under market value.” Waddle’s contract is relatively modest, so the trade would be straightforward from a salary‑cap perspective.

An additional factor that may influence the decision is the upcoming deadline for the 2024 free‑agency window. The Dolphins’ front office has been known to make strategic moves before the trade deadline to secure a favorable cap situation. If Waddle’s contract is not considered a priority for the Dolphins, the deadline may prompt a swift trade that could free up resources for future signings.

Reactions From Key Figures

• Jaylen Waddle – In a statement released via his social media handle, Waddle thanked the Dolphins for “providing me with opportunities” and expressed enthusiasm for the future, but he declined to comment on rumors.

• Pittsburgh Steelers GM Chris Woodyard – “We’re always looking to upgrade our roster and a player like Waddle could bring great upside. We’re evaluating the right price and would be open to a trade if it’s a win-win.”

• Denver Broncos GM Chris Harris – “We’re always on the lookout for a player that can elevate our offense. If Waddle’s situation in Miami changes, we’ll keep our eyes open.”

• Dolphins GM Zach Berman – “We’re open to all options as we build the best roster possible. We’ll keep the lines of communication open.”

Implications for the NFL Landscape

A trade for Waddle could potentially alter the competitive balance in the AFC South and the AFC West. For the Steelers, it could bring them an immediate upgrade on the receiving end of their pass offense, while for the Broncos it could help them re‑energize a struggling offensive unit. Meanwhile, the Dolphins could use the trade capital to acquire draft picks that will strengthen their future or find a different wide‑receiver fit that aligns with their long‑term strategy.

The trade rumor also underscores a broader trend in the NFL: teams are increasingly willing to move younger, high‑performing talent that is undervalued on the market in order to restructure their roster for the future. This shift has been seen with other young receivers such as DeVante Parker and Keenan Allen, and it is expected to intensify as the NFL approaches the 2025–2026 season.

Bottom Line

While the rumor remains unverified, the convergence of a player’s strong performance, a low contract, and the strategic needs of two other NFL franchises creates a credible scenario for a trade. Whether the Dolphins ultimately decide to keep Waddle or trade him to the Steelers or Broncos will have far‑reaching implications for each team’s offensive prospects and overall cap management. As the NFL’s free‑agency period approaches, fans and analysts will watch closely to see whether Waddle’s next chapter unfolds in Miami, Pittsburgh, or Denver.