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$60 million receiver and Denver Bronco, Courtland Sutton looking for a new contract and could seek a trade this offseason. According to a report, the veteran wideout continues to be absent from voluntary workouts as he’s looking for a new deal. The 28-year-old is angling for adjustments in his contract but everything is voluntary up to this point. However, the communication between Sutton’s camp and the organization has been respectful but it doesn’t mean he doesn’t want a new deal.

The real speculation begins if he starts missing mandatory camp which seems like the ideal route for the veteran. It sounds unlikely that a trade will happen anytime soon but it doesn’t mean it won’t happen. However, the Broncos were receiving interest from teams this NFL Draft but there was no deal in place during the event. It’s a surprise considering that the Broncos want to retain the SMU product.

Sutton hasn’t requested a trade before despite the ongoing dispute with the Broncos but has now. It shouldn’t surprise anyone if the veteran holds out for a new deal. This is probably the same anticipation for star wideouts, CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson. The SMU product has been with Denver throughout his six-year career, and he has been the focal point of the team’s passing game when healthy.

Last season, the veteran was able to post career highs in touchdowns and catch percentage. The Broncos were able to make a Jerry Jeudy trade happen but were happen to make it up by signing Josh Reynolds. However, they continued to do their homework by drafting Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele as newcomers. Sutton will be the top receiver for the team if he comes back.

$60 Million Receiver Courtland Sutton Looking For New Contract, Could Seek Trade

Could a Trade Still Happen?

One should note that the SMU product is continuing is work away from the facility to do his workouts. He wants a new deal with a reworked contract that includes a pay raise. Sutton wants out of Mile High City since he’s requesting a trade but Denver has no desire of trading him. However, the incoming quarterback, Bo Nix hasn’t been able to practice with the team’s top pass-catcher so that’s slowgoing for the offense.

Broncos are among the others like the Vikings and Cowboys that are figuring out how to pay their top receiver. Everything seems normal for now but it could be problematic for the offense if Sutton’s absence continues. Jeudy is already off to a new team so that leaves with little to no experienced receivers on the depth chart. However, the Broncos could feel comfortable with Franklin and Reynolds as their two top starters considering that Franklin was the receiver for Nix in Oregon.

It should be logical for Denver to decide on the sooner the better. They should be able to considering they don’t have any disruption for the Oregon product. If not, here are some potential team trade fits for Sutton.

Team Trade Fits

The Panthers are still looking to add a new receiver after trading for Diontae Johnson this offseason. They have Adam Thielen to complement him but no reliable slot. Carolina was active in this free agency after getting Xavier Legette but he may need more time to adjust. The Steelers still need a wide receiver to replace so he can line up for Russell Wilson in the upcoming season for a reunion for Sutton.

However, the Cowboys have been the most quiet this offseason than any other NFL team. They haven’t been able to find a replacement for Michael Gallup. Lamb’s contract is also up and trade rumors are swirling around Brandin Cooks. There needs to be more competition at the receiver position in Kansas City.

The Rashee Rice situation isn’t helping so this leaves Kadarius Toney, Marquise Brown and Xavier as the only reliable receivers for Patrick Mahomes. They need more depth and a new WR1 so that’s easily Sutton who can take over.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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