The Denver Broncos suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. The Broncos' defense was abysmal and lacked at all the stifling power of the first eight weeks, when it allowed 41 points and was beaten through the air and on the ground.

While many in Broncos Country are convinced that Denver needs to use its draft picks to acquire offensive playmakers like Tee Higgins and David Njoku, the team would do well to retain the draft capital they have and build for the future.

The Broncos' offensive talent is undoubtedly lacking in playmakers. Courtland Sutton is the best option, but he also has a tendency to drop some easy passes. The rest of the receiving corps is abysmal, aside from Devaughn Vele, who has shown some flashes. The Broncos' tight ends are serviceable at best and their running backs are ridiculously inconsistent, making life more difficult for rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

What happens next on the Broncos beat? Don't miss any more news and analysis! Take a moment, sign up for our free newsletter and get breaking Broncos news delivered to your inbox daily!

The Broncos could look to the trade market and Tuesday's deadline to sign a playmaker, but this team isn't one Higgins away from being a playoff contender. This loss to Baltimore was very tough and a sign that the Broncos are not yet a serious contender, but that was the general mood at the start of the season.

The 2024 season was always going to be a rebuilding year, with Nix learning and growing while the rest of the Broncos' roster was evaluated. Adding another weapon would make sense if the Broncos were just missing a few key pieces, but even adding a top-notch wideout or tight end wouldn't make this version of the Broncos a strong playoff contender.

So far the Broncos have beaten them Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans SaintsAnd Carolina Pantherswho have a combined record of 13-31, with only one ranked in the top 15 in total offense. That's not to say the Broncos are fraudulent, but they haven't defeated any real threats other than the Buccaneers.

The Broncos' best plan going forward is to retain their draft picks and even add some by trading away some players who are set to become free agents after the season. The Broncos could still make the playoffs this season, but they need to be realistic about what awaits them this year and understand that they don't have to go all out to win now, but rather prepare for 2025 and beyond.

Keep following Mile High Huddle X And Facebook and subscribe on YouTube for daily Broncos live stream podcasts!