Heading into the offseason, the Denver Broncos have a clear-cut plan of looking to upgrade their troublesome quarterback position.
One of their options quickly gaining steam is possibly acquiring Kirk Cousins through free agency. However, Troy Renck of Denver7 is reporting that this will require the Broncos to make additional salary cap maneuvering in order to have the space to sign Cousins to a deal.
Reality is #Broncos need to massage salary cap. They will pursue Cousins. But have to have enough money for him and to address other needs. Elway also did not rule out change at WR. As I have said for weeks, it would not be surprise if 1 vet -between DT and Emmanuel- not back
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) January 29, 2018
Denver has much of their salary cap space committed to their star wide receivers in Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. The two have brought stability to the position, but if letting one of them go will allow them to bring aboard a Pro Bowl quarterback in Cousins the front office likely won't hesitate.
Sanders still has two more years worth around $22 million on the three-year, $33 million extension that he signed back in September 2016. The 30-year-old struggled with his health this past season, recording 47 catches for 555 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 12 games played.
His lingering issues with his legs had a tremendous impact on his performance on the field leading to his lowest reception and receiving yard totals in five years. Keep in mind, he is coming off three straight 1,000 receiving-yard campaigns while hauling in more than 75 catches per season.
Thomas has been a reliable receiving option for the Broncos for the last several years. He is coming off a respectable campaign with 83 catches for 949 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Thomas has been able to haul in more than 80 receptions and 900 receiving yards in six consecutive seasons while breaking 1,000 receiving yards in five straight campaigns prior to this year. He has two years left on his five-year, $70 million worth rough $30 million guaranteed.
Although the Broncos could part ways with one of their Pro Bowl wide receivers, the team is also likely to move on from star cornerback Aqib Talib. Ultimately, this will all hinge on Cousins' interest in joining Denver.
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