Courtland Sutton Trade Rumors Intensify as Broncos WR Holds Out for New Contract
Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton’s absence from the team’s optional offseason workouts last week has fueled speculation that he could be on the move. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Broncos have received several trade inquiries for Sutton but had not explicitly planned to trade him. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as a potential landing spot.
Sutton has been consistently productive throughout his career, despite experiencing frequent changes at the quarterback position. He has registered at least 40 receptions and 700 receiving yards in every season except for 2020 when he suffered a season-ending ACL injury.
The Steelers have been in search of a wide receiver since trading Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in March. They have pursued free agents Mike Williams and Tyler Boyd but have come up short in both cases. The team has also expressed interest in San Francisco’s Brandon Aiyuk, but the 49ers have maintained that he is not available for trade.
Sutton’s connection with Russell Wilson, who is expected to start for the Steelers in 2024, makes him an attractive target. Additionally, the Broncos are reportedly not in contention to win the Super Bowl this year and may be seeking to improve their draft position for the 2025 season.
A trade to the Steelers would benefit both teams. The Broncos could save over $10 million in cap space after June 1 by moving Sutton, while the Steelers would acquire a proven receiver with a connection to their starting quarterback. Sutton’s availability for trade could come at a reasonable cost, making him a viable option for the Steelers.
