Is there a possibility that the Broncos will dismantle their group of wide receivers?
During Super Bowl week, Payton used a metaphor to describe the Broncos’ decision-making process, likening it to flipping over a puzzle box. The pivotal move that could kickstart changes would likely involve quarterback Russell Wilson. If the Broncos decide to part ways with Wilson, as many anticipate after Payton benched him towards the end of the season, they would incur a substantial $85 million dead money hit against their salary cap over the next two seasons.
As the NFL offseason unfolds:
– Payton and general manager George Paton have hinted at scenarios where Wilson remains with the team, emphasizing their positive relationship. However, releasing Wilson would prompt scrutiny over the future of several veteran players on the Broncos roster, particularly their wide receivers.
– Courtland Sutton, Tim Patrick, and Jerry Jeudy currently account for significant portions of the Broncos’ salary cap for the 2024 season. Before any decisions regarding Wilson are made, the team already faces a projected $9.6 million dead money and is approximately $24 million over the salary cap, assuming it is set at $242 million.
– Sutton, Patrick, and Jeudy have had limited opportunities to develop chemistry together due to quarterback and coaching changes. Sutton’s 1,112-yard season in 2019 stands as the team’s only 1,000-yard receiving season in the past seven years.
– The Broncos drafted Marvin Mims Jr. in the second round last April, adding depth to their receiving corps. Mims showed promise as a returner and is poised for a larger role next season.
– Players like Patrick, who has dealt with injuries in recent seasons, may face contract renegotiations for salary cap relief. Sutton’s contract also presents potential areas for adjustment, considering his significant cap charge and upcoming guaranteed salary.
– Jeudy, who attracted trade interest last year, will play under the fifth-year option picked up by the Broncos, ensuring his $12.987 million base salary is guaranteed.
– Payton is set to commence roster meetings with his coaching staff, where decisions regarding the salary cap, depth chart, and potential free agency targets will be discussed.
– Despite the uncertainty, players like Sutton remain focused on controlling what they can and contributing to the team’s turnaround.
