The Denver Broncos had already traded wide receiver Jerry Jeudy early in the offseason due to his struggles during Sean Payton’s first year as head coach.
As the 2024 season approaches, Sutton’s name is in the spotlight again due to a proposed three-team trade involving the Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Francisco 49ers. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the 49ers had offered a third-round pick to Denver for Sutton, with plans to then trade All-Pro receiver Brandon Aiyuk to the Steelers. However, the deal fell through when Denver rejected San Francisco’s offer.
The trade discussions also involved the 49ers negotiating Aiyuk’s extension, as the 26-year-old was entering the final year of his contract. The 49ers even negotiated with the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots about moving Aiyuk, but he refused to join either team, leading to the end of those talks.
For the Broncos, trading Sutton didn’t make much sense, especially with rookie first-round pick Bo Nix set to start as quarterback. Keeping Sutton, who had 59 catches for 772 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, is crucial for Nix’s development.
The Broncos also made a roster move on August 29, releasing undrafted rookie linebacker Levelle Bailey and signing veteran linebacker and special teams player Kristian Welch.
Welch, who went undrafted in 2020 and previously played for the Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers, has been known for his strong special teams play. Despite having 27 career tackles, most of his impact has been on special teams, where he has over 1,100 snaps.
The Broncos are seeking depth at inside linebacker, a position where they have less depth compared to outside linebacker. Welch is now listed as the backup to Cody Barton, with Alex Singleton filling the other starting inside linebacker position.
