Broncos General Manager Doesn't Hold Back Thoughts On Courtland Sutton's Absence

19/04/2024 01:34

Courtland Sutton is the Denver Broncos' top wide receiver, and after the team traded Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns, Sutton wants to be paid like it.

The receiver has two years left on his deal, and he wants a new extension.

Only $2 million of the $27.6 million he is due to receive over the next two seasons is guaranteed, and Sutton has been noticeably absent from the Broncos' offseason program.

Despite the star receiver not being with the team for voluntary workouts, Broncos general manager George Paton says he's not worried.

"It's 100 percent voluntary," Paton said on Thursday, according to The Denver Post's Gabriel Parker.

"It's the first week of the offseason program. [Head coach] Sean [Payton] has talked to Courtland. I've talked to Courtland. He's in a good place and we'll just leave it at that."

Paton noted that 98 percent of the roster reported to the voluntary program, which makes Suttton's absence even more pronounced. 

It's unclear if the team is negotiating with the wide receiver, but it is clear that Sutton is prepared to be away from the team until the situation is either addressed or resolved to his satisfaction.

Sutton led the Broncos with 59 receptions for 772 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, and he figures to be the top target for whoever the Broncos will start at quarterback in 2024.

With Russell Wilson now in Pittsburgh, signs are pointing to Denver bringing in a rookie in the NFL Draft next week. 

There are several top quarterbacks available, and if Sutton can get his contract figured out, he'll be in camp to work with a prospective rookie starter if the Broncos bring one in.