The Denver Broncos possess a standout wide receiver in Courtland Sutton, who desires a higher salary and has hinted that he might skip training camp if his demands are not met.
There’s a suggestion from Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report that the Broncos could resolve this issue and gain valuable draft picks by executing a “shocking” trade proposal. This proposal involves sending Sutton and a sixth-round pick in 2026 to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a conditional Day 2 pick in 2025 and a fifth-round pick in the same year.
Sutton is currently under contract until 2025, having signed a four-year, $60.8 million extension in November 2021. He is set to earn $13.6 million in 2024 and $14 million in 2025.
Despite his Pro Bowl season in 2019, Sutton hasn’t surpassed 1,000 receiving yards since then, making him the last Bronco to achieve this mark in either rushing or receiving yards.
According to Davenport, the Cowboys are reportedly focused on the 2024 season and have identified needs at running back and wide receiver that Sutton could potentially address as an upgraded WR2 alongside CeeDee Lamb. This could be crucial given the uncertainties at running back and the likelihood of relying more on quarterback Dak Prescott and the passing game, especially in Prescott’s contract year with rising quarterback salaries.
Alternatively, if the Broncos aim to rebuild and secure a high draft pick in 2025, trading Sutton now could ensure a lower standing in the upcoming season, as he currently stands out as their most reliable receiving option, especially with uncertainties surrounding the starting quarterback position.
Sutton, drafted by the Broncos in 2018 from SMU, has navigated through various quarterback changes, yet managed to maintain consistent production with at least 50 receptions and 700 receiving yards in each of the past three seasons. In 2023, he led Denver with 59 receptions, 772 receiving yards, and a career-high 10 touchdowns.
The market for elite NFL wide receivers has recently seen substantial contracts, such as Justin Jefferson’s record-setting deal with the Vikings, which could potentially bolster Sutton’s case for a salary increase.
Tony Adame, a seasoned sports writer for Heavy.com, covers the NFL extensively, focusing on teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, and the Denver Broncos. His work has been featured in various prominent sports publications since 2004.
