Could a holdout be brewing for Denver Broncos star wide receiver Courtland Sutton?
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, Sutton opted not to report for the team’s voluntary workout on Monday. While the workout was voluntary — and thus, Sutton wasn’t required to attend — the timing likely wasn’t coincidental, as the 2019 Pro Bowl selection has just $2 million in guaranteed money remaining on his contract.
As a result, it would make sense for the 28-year-old Sutton to want to sign a new deal in order to protect himself against the possibility that he could suffer an injury or is hampered by ineffective quarterback play by the time he is now scheduled to hit free agency following the 2025 season. The SMU product currently has two years remaining on the four-year, $60.8 million extension he signed with Denver in 2021, although most of the remaining money on his deal is not guaranteed.
#Broncos WR Courtland Sutton did not report Monday for voluntary workouts as he seeks a new contract, per source.
Sutton is going on his 10th starting QB in seven seasons and has only $2 million guaranteed left on his deal. He had 10 TDs in 2023 while ranking 56th in targets. pic.twitter.com/93rA35XdM4
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 16, 2024
Originally selected in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Sutton has established himself as one of the league’s most consistent receivers, catching 298 passes for 4,259 yards and 24 touchdowns in his first six seasons in the league. His numbers are even more impressive when you consider the inconsistency of the quarterbacks he has played with, as Denver currently enters the 2024 NFL Draft without a solidified starting quarterback.
After the Broncos released Russell Wilson earlier this offseason, their quarterback room currently consists of Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci. Denver lays claim to the No. 12 pick in next week’s first round, which could take the Broncos out of range for one of the draft’s top-four quarterbacks unless they trade up.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.