Peyton Manning is not the biggest concern heading into the offseason for the Denver Broncos. While the team continues to operate under the idea that the quarterback will be returning and not retiring like some speculate, the same cannot be said for several other stars with the Broncos. There is plenty of doubt what his offensive weapons will look like in 2015 as at least one star prepares to exit.
The Broncos had three of their top four wide receivers working on expiring contracts in 2014 and now the team is faced with tough decisions regarding who can stay and who can go in free agency. Re-signing Julius Thomas, Demaryius Thomas and Wes Welker might be possible, but everyone would have to agree to pay cuts which is highly unlikely. With that, someone will get cut out and Julius Thomas might be the first out.
According to the Walter Football, Thomas is preparing to exit in free agency regardless of what happens with Manning. Team sources are reporting that Thomas has no interest in giving the Broncos a hometown discount, eager to get as much money as he can even if that means heading elsewhere in 2015. The Broncos have had contracts talks with Thomas prior to the 2014 season beginning, but things were called off after they went nowhere.
If Thomas is gone, that means Demaryius might be able to get the money he is looking for instead of being forced to settle for the franchise tag which is the likely result if the Broncos cannot get him inked to a deal. A tandem of Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders was very productive for the Broncos and they intend to keep that going. Welker could also come back, likely on a one-year deal at best.
Thomas will have a lot of interest in free agency which is likely pushing him away from Denver. Multiple teams are looking for a position upgrade and Thomas will be the best available alongside Jordan Cameron. The Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens could all use help at the spot and would be willing to give Thomas the money he is aiming for.
