Denver sits at 4-2 and faces a looming trade deadline, weighing a practical balance between upgrading needs and preserving draft capital. A PFF sweep lists seven potential targets (Andrews, Njoku, Davis, Myers, Brooks, Okonkwo, Adams) that could fit if the price is right, but Denver's immediate focus centers on shoring up the left-guard spot after Powers’ injury. Payton has signaled interest without urgency. Dre Greenlaw’s return status could tilt the scales, while Engram’s steady production keeps the offense potent even without a major overhaul.

With Greenlaw potentially back soon, Denver may remain a net buyer only if the value aligns and the price isn’t prohibitive. The Raiders-crossover remains unlikely, and a divisional trade would be a hurdle. The Broncos’ midseason assessment hinges on Greenlaw’s health and how well the line stabilizes with Peart and Powers out, as Engram and the pass game have already begun to click.

In the end, Denver’s biggest current hole—guard play—could drive a cautious approach: a modest upgrade rather than a blockbuster. The deadline, just under three weeks away, will reveal whether the roster is sharpened in time for a late-season push or kept intact to build with a full offseason under Payton.

Derwin James’ wrist scan came back negative after last week’s win, and he logged 59 defensive snaps against Miami. Week 7 against Indianapolis tests a thinner safety room, as Los Angeles traded Alohi Gilman to Baltimore and added Odafe Oweh to bolster the pass rush. Elijah Molden’s setback raises the risk, keeping James in the slot with Tony Jefferson in heavier rotation. Fantasy managers should watch Chargers practice reports for shifts in the back-end usage.

James’ health and role will drive the Chargers’ defensive ceiling. If he’s fully active, expect continued slot coverage and steady IDP upside; if Molden or Jefferson are leaned on more, the upside tilts toward the safeties sharing snaps and potential tackles from mix-and-match alignments. Track the week’s updates closely for Week 7 and beyond.