There’s clearly a faction of Broncos Country that would very much like to see Demaryius Thomas work his way out of town, but unfortunately for them, that’s not happening. Like it or not, DT will be a Denver Bronco for the next two years, at least, until his dead-cap hit drops to just $4.4 million in 2018.
So until that time, it’s probably best if we all just try to forgive and forget. I mean, given the championship ring on his finger, I don’t think it should be too hard. And really, how angry can we get about a 105-catch, 1,300-yard, six-touchdown season? Drops or not, if that’s DT’s floor, I think we’re doing alright.
Now, that doesn’t give him full immunity; his playoff disappearance leaves a disappointing taste in even his most ardent supporters’ mouths. Without question, he has to be better next season, more consistent.
Luckily, the Broncos have a pretty darn good receiver on the other side of the field in Emmanuel Sanders to pick up the slack. A fan favorite, Sanders has proven himself to be one of the best No. 2 options in the NFL over the last two seasons, and I expect him to continue to be just that in 2016.
The question the Broncos and John Elway really have to answer is: Who’s their third option?
My guess is that it was supposed to be Cody Latimer, and maybe it still will be, but he’s got a lot to prove; he’s anything but a sure thing. Maybe it’ll be Taylor Jordan, Peyton Manning‘s favorite practice squad buddy.
Or maybe that player isn’t on the roster right now.
The Broncos probably won’t have many resources to devote towards the offense in free agency this season, but if they do open their wallets, these five wideouts could make sense:
