Now that the biggest wave of free agency has passed, the next biggest event is the NFL Draft, yet there’s also a heavy cloud hanging over several trade rumors, including the Denver Broncos. We’ve frequently heard both former first-round pick Jerry Jeudy and Pro Bowl receiver Courtland Sutton linked to several teams this offseason, but coach Sean Payton says not so fast.
NFL Network football insider Ian Rapoport had a chance to sit down with Payton at the league’s annual owners meeting on Sunday, and he got us the scoop on the latest rumors surrounding the Broncos’ receivers.
“I see and read just like everyone else does… We’re not trading those two players.
When people call and the phone rings like it does this time of year, (general manager) George Paton’s job is to pick it up and say, ‘Hey. Tell you what, we’re not.’ And so, we’ve received calls, you bet. Those are two good football players. But we’re in the business of gathering talent right now. Why do people call? Because they know we’re void of draft picks and that we might, because there was some discussions a year ago, I think, regarding Courtland. But we like the current group that we’re working with.”
Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton quieting trade rumors regarding Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton
Well, there we have it. As Payton mentioned, the Broncos aren’t exactly dealing with a wealth of draft selections this April, with just five picks and none in the first two rounds. Denver’s first draft selection won’t come until the 67th pick, which places them at a great disadvantage when trying to find more immediate contributors who can help spark a turnaround in 2023.
Still, it doesn’t sound like a Jeudy or Sutton trade is on the horizon any time soon. Then again, as Payton said, this time of year, they always listen to trade calls, perhaps the Broncos receive an offer too good to refuse if a team gets desperate.
Related: NFL teams reportedly believe Denver Broncos overvaluing Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton