The Denver Broncos overlooked the playoffs for an eighth consecutive season after a late postseason push fizzled.
Now, the crew has reached an inflection point, growing a challenging offseason for head coach Sean Payton and Co.
With that in mind, right here are a trade, reduce and signing the Broncos must make in the coming weeks.
TRADE: Wide receiver Courtland Sutton to clear cap house
While many would recommend moving former first-round pick Jerry Jeudy, fellow wideout Sutton has extra alternate value. In 16 games, he had 59 receptions for 772 yards and tied for third in the league in receiving TDs (10).
Last offseason, the Baltimore Ravens nearly acquired the 28-year-old earlier than Denver changed its mind, revoking the offer.
Contenders who want WR depth, such as the Buffalo Bills, might be involved in the former Pro Bowler.
Over the Cap estimates the Broncos are $24.1M over the cap. Sutton has the sixth-highest cap hit on the team ($17.3M). Trading him with a post-June 1 designation would shop $13
CUT: Quarterback Russell Wilson
Payton these days claimed the Broncos haven’t made “a ultimate selection on his future.” Still, the relationship looks irreparable. Denver benched Wilson for the season’s closing two video games in choose of backup Jarrett Stidham, who went 1-1 and posted a below-average 31.1 QBR.
If Wilson is still on the roster on March 17, his 2025 revenue turns into completely guaranteed ($37M). ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler pronounced the 35-year-old isn’t predicted to waive his no-trade clause.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, releasing the Super Bowl champion will incur $85M in lifeless money, the largest charge in league history. The Broncos can use a post-June 1 designation to cut up fees over the subsequent two seasons, softening the financial blow.
The franchise will likely draft a replacement, with Tankathon projecting the Broncos will pick out Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy with the 12th general pick.
SIGNING: Tight give up Dalton Schultz
The Broncos cannot splurge in free agency, however Schultz — who had 59 receptions for 635 yards and five touchdowns in 15 video games with the Texans in 2023 — would add punch to an inept passing offense. Denver completed 24th in the league in passing yards (191.9).
Denver wants a doable beginning TE. Greg Dulcich neglected 15 games with hamstring and foot injuries. Backup Adam Trautman recorded 22 receptions for 204 yards and three touchdown catches in 17 games.
According to Spotrac, Schultz’s market cost is a three-year deal worth $11.3M annually, a stretch for the Broncos. However, if Denver drafts a QB, he’ll want reliable pass-catchers to flourish.
