Pro Bowler and Denver Bronco wide receiver Courtland Sutton is looking for a raise but trade is still possible this offseason. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the SMU product is seeking a raise of around $2-$3 million from his current deal in 2024. This comes after the wideout is holding out of OTA’s so many talking heads now see why he’s been holding out this offseason. However, his absence signals his desire to wait for a new contract but there hasn’t been much progress between both parties.
Sutton has two years left on his deal with no money guaranteed so it’s no secret why he’s holding out in the first place. He’s the soul of this team’s offense so they may have to act quickly because trouble may spell next month. Despite that, the Broncos said they are planning to have him in their possession this season after trade rumors were circulating all offseason. It may be smart for the team to give him what he requests but with more guaranteed money.
Denver doesn’t necessarily need to add any more years to his contract, instead they could just him more money in his final two years. They could also offer some extra incentives to beef up his deal to make him earn while giving him what he wants. It’ll be interesting what the Broncos will be willing to do after releasing Justin Simmons to create some cap space. However, Denver isn’t lacking pass-catchers on their roster with Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele added from the NFL Draft.
Bo Nix doesn’t have any shortage of throwing it to young talent but it would be better for Broncos offense to bring back their top receiver. There may be a lack of chemistry if he doesn’t return.
Pro Bowler Courtland Sutton Looking For Raise, Trade Still Possible
So What’s Next?
The asking price that Sutton seems to be asking looks to be fair for both parties. Fowler did say that Sutton isn’t looking to break the break and only wants a fair raise to keep around the team for long. It seems like he doesn’t want what Amon-Ra St. Brown got or what Justin Jefferson is going to get. The Broncos shouldn’t have to worry about those contracts but things and feelings can always change this season if he continues to get better.
Sutton turns 29 this season but he isn’t a 1,000-yard wide receiver at this point. It’s a fair demand from Sutton but one could shock the league by giving him the request for a trade. Unless someone else like Tim Patrick coming back from injury wants to come back to take over as WR1. This isn’t the expectation as Sean Payton has faith that a deal will come around eventually.
Sutton was the best red zone threat in the league, hauling in 10 receiving touchdowns and making a circus catch every week. However, this means the Steelers may be back in the mix for Sutton’s availability after finding out his asking price. They could also give him the contract he desires if it means he’s looking for a new team. Here are some other potential trade fits for Sutton
Potential Trade Fits
The Ravens are still in the market for a reliable slot receiver after extending Rashod Bateman. They have Zay Flowers but don’t have a replacement yet for Odell Beckham Jr. so Sutton is easily that guy. Batman’s production has been slipping so it may be wise for Sutton and Flowers to be on both opposite ends while he focuses on the slot. However, the Chiefs are still looking for a receiver after drama this offseason involving Rashee Rice.
He’s on thin ice already and it’s hard to imagine Marquise Brown leading the depth chart while Xavier Worthy enters his rookie year. Sutton would be a cheap option considering he doesn’t want to be paid the top dollar as a wideout. Another team that’s in the mix is the Carolina Panthers making splash moves for their offense. Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen don’t seem to be their long-term solution but Sutton is still young and could be on the trade block.
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