When the Denver Broncos drafted Courtland Sutton with the 40th overall pick last month, he became the team’s highest-selected wide receiver since Demaryius Thomas in 2010. As Thomas prepares for his ninth season with the Broncos, he is impressed with what Sutton and fourth-round pick DaeSean Hamilton have shown early in OTAs.
Thomas spoke glowingly of the two rookies at Dove Valley Tuesday with the media.
“The first thing I saw with those guys is they’re smart,” Thomas said. “They know their stuff and they know the game. All the talent in the world; we’re just trying to get them better and better every day.”
While Thomas dealt with injuries coming into the league that hampered his immediate impact, he credited both rookies for their ability to contribute instantly.
“I feel like you can throw Courtland in right now, throw Hamilton in, throw a couple more guys in right now and make plays for us,” Thomas said. “From what I saw so far, they listen and learn what the coaches say, what me and Emmanuel (Sanders) tell them, and they’re picking it up quick. They’ll only get better and better from there.”
Regarding Thomas himself, he feels as good as he ever has since entering the NFL. Thomas has endured nagging hip injuries since the beginning of the 2016 season along with other injuries earlier in his career. So far, though, everything is looking up for Thomas.
“I’ve been dealing with hip problems my whole career now, it really don’t bother me no more,” Thomas said. “Physically, I feel the best; mentally as well. I’m all love and ready to keep moving, ready to get back in the playoffs, get back to the championship.”
To prepare for the season, Thomas and other pass catchers – including running backs and tight ends – will join quarterback Case Keenum and wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders in Houston to develop a rapport this offseason.
As for what keeps him motivated entering the season, that’s easy for the veteran receiver.
“Winning another championship, that’s it,” Thomas said.
Click here to listen to the full interview with Demaryius Thomas, including his experience against the new-look secondary.