Eric Decker is one of 15 players on the Denver Broncos preparing to hit free agency in March. The wide receiver had a standout year thanks to Peyton Manning and will be one of the more sought after players on the open market. Team vice president John Elway admits the team must be smart with their money and Decker might be first off the list for the team.
Decker is aware of his status and knows the Broncos have a lot of financial concerns this offseason. After playing at the discounted rate of $1.3 million this season, he is hoping for a solid pay raise. The wide receiver told the Denver Post that he would ideally love to stay in Denver and continue playing there, but he knows the NFL is a business and he would like to see his worth on the open market.
"I do hope it works out," Decker said. "I love the city of Denver. I love the organization. I love everything about it. I understand it's a business, and we'll see what happens. I have enjoyed my time here."
Decker has averaged 86 catches and 1,176 yards with 12 touchdowns over the past two seasons. Those are pretty decent numbers considering how much talent the Broncos have at the wide receiver position. However, according to NFL.com, Denver only views Decker as a No. 2 option with Demaryius Thomas getting the top money of the group.
The Denver Post reports that after two solid years, Decker could be in the market for a solid multi-year deal with any team. He could be worth an upwards of $7 million per season depending on what the market looks like come March.
Decker is not a priority for Denver and neither is running back Knowshon Moreno. After a breakout year of his own, the running back will be the top available player at his position. With two young stars playing below him, the Broncos have no need to re-sign Moreno no matter what his numbers look like.
Moreno put up 1,038 yards rushing and another 548 yards receiving this season. Denver is likely to be just slightly under the salary cap, but Moreno is expected to be a casualty considering Ronnie Hillman and Montee Ball are on the roster. The Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns could be the first to show interest in the running back.