While most Denver Broncos fans are awaiting to hear about the future of Peyton Manning, the team has several other decisions to make in free agency after falling short of the Super Bowl in 2014. The Broncos have undergone more changes this offseason than they were anticipating after opting to fire John Fox at head coach. Now they must decide who stays and who goes regarding some of their bigger names on the roster.
The Denver Broncos do not want Demaryius Thomas to even dip a pinky toe into the free agent pool come March. The wide receiver has developed into one of the biggest offensive weapons for Denver and they intend to keep him around. However, at what cost are they willing to do so considering Thomas can command a big contract this offseason.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Broncos are expected to retain Thomas, but will likely place a franchise tag on him rather than sign the wide receiver to a long-term deal. The Broncos and Thomas have attempted contract negotiations for the past year, getting nowhere in the process. The two sides called things off when the 2014 season began and they do not seem to be picking back up. If the Broncos fail to ink Thomas to a long-term deal by March 10, a franchise tag is the end result.
A tag for Thomas would cost the Broncos $13 million for a one-year deal. That certainly will not please the wide receiver who aims to get the lucrative long-term contract when his stock is high, but the move affords the Broncos flexibility when it comes to other free agents. Inking Thomas to one-year deal opens the door for tight end Julius Thomas to sign a long-term contract, keeping the Pro Bowl duo together for seasons to come.
Denver is trying to avoid having to choose between the two stars understanding they are equally important to the franchise and would gain a lot of attention should they become available in free agency. The franchise tag and long-term deal is the only way to keep the roster together as Denver hopes Manning returns to form in 2015.
A contract for both players is a priority for many reason, but one is because Wes Welker is not expected to return, leaving the Broncos a man short. According to FOX Sports, Welker is considering retirement after several head injuries over the past few years. The wide receiver will be a free agent in March and is aware that concussions and low stats do not yield to a contract extension of his liking. Getting both Thomas players back will at least help make up for his absence.
