The Denver Broncos are a little concerned about what their top receiving corps will look like in 2014. After producing one of the best offenses in 2013 (minus Super Bowl), will they be able to repeat the success with the same cast next season? Contracts and free agency could hurt that effort meaning someone might get cut in the process.
With several players set to hit the market in 2014, the Broncos have some tough decisions to make. Like it or not Broncos fans, Wes Welker's contract is the first to fall under fire. The wide receiver is an $8 million cap hit next season after signing a two-year, $12 million deal following his departure from the New England Patriots. $6 million of his compensation will hit the payroll in March via roster bonuses and a base salary. Basic math says that is not good for Denver.
CSN New England's Tom Curran notes that Denver could decide to pass on Welker and target a wide receiver they view as a long-term option. It seems crazy that the Broncos would part ways with Welker. He did put up 778 yards and ten touchdowns at the arm of Peyton Manning. However, he is 32 and the Broncos might be looking to shed that big contract.
Ideally, Denver would like to re-sign Eric Decker before he hits the market come March 11. Both Decker and team vice president John Elway have stated they hope to re-sign the wide receiver who caught 87 passes for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns in the regular season alone. Those stats make Decker eligible for a top-dollar contract. Welker's current deal hurts that option, as does the one more year left on Demaryius Thomas' current contract.
"I do hope it works out," Decker said, via the Denver Post. "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."
There are also players like Knowshon Moreno and Julius Thomas who had big years with the Broncos. The running back is not expected to return to Denver while Thomas has one year left on his contract. Denver wants to keep their high-level offense intact, but Welker may or may not be a part of it. Curran believes if Decker leaves, Welker could be released in favor of someone like Julian Edelman. While that is mere speculation, it will be a storyline that headlines the offseason.
