How Broncos WR could have similar role to NFL record-breaker

In a Tuesday news conference, Payton said he was "encouraged" by Sutton studying Thomas because he will play a similar role in his offense.

Payton is making a logical move since Sutton possesses comparable physical measurables to Thomas. Sutton stands at 6-foot-4 and 216 pounds, while Thomas is 6-foot-3 and 212 pounds.

Despite a decline over the past two seasons, Thomas has been the more productive player. In six seasons with the Saints, he has earned two first-team All-Pro nods, recorded 100 or more receptions three times and won 2019 Offensive Player of the Year. 

Sutton has made no All-Pro appearances and hasn't logged 100 or more receptions in five seasons with Denver.

However, a floundering organization that hasn't made the playoffs in seven years limited the production of the 27-year-old wideout. Sutton has played under three HCs and with seven starting QBs since Denver drafted him in 2018.   

Payton, a Super Bowl champion and offensive mastermind, could stabilize the franchise. The HC has already impressed the WR with his attention to detail. 

"For us to be working on situational football as in-depth as we are during OTAs, it's amazing," Sutton said, per Nick Kosmider of The Athletic. 

Payton also indicated he has high expectations for Sutton and wants him to recapture his Pro Bowl form from 2019. 

"That 2019 album he put out was pretty good. We're looking for another soundtrack like that in 2023," Payton said.

Perhaps Sutton will have a career year under his new HC and become a premier target the Broncos need.