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Broncos Trade Idea Sends Courtland Sutton to Saints For Multiple Draft Picks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated May 23, 2025 11:15 AM ET

The Denver Broncos have a young quarterback in Bo Nix and plenty of intriguing wide receivers on the roster. With Courtland Sutton in the final year of his deal, there is a scenario where the Broncos move Sutton for draft pick compensation.

For this trade idea, the Broncos send Sutton to the New Orleans Saints for a 2026 third-round pick and a fifth-round pick. While the Broncos won't net a first, they land two valuable assets from the Saints for Sutton.

Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report named Sutton as a trade asset for the Broncos, despite his concerns over the team's receiver depth. Ballentine writes, "But Courtland Sutton isn't under contract beyond 2025, and it doesn't feel like they have a dependable option."

Even with the concern from Ballantine, the Broncos have a solid wide receiver corps behind Sutton. Rookie Pat Bryant has received significant praise from Sean Payton, drawing comparisons to Michael Thomas, coincidentally from the Saints.

Marvin Mims, entering year three, will likely see an increased role. Devaughn Vele flashed in limited opportunities in 2024, while Troy Franklin enters year two in the NFL with plenty of potential due to his connection with Nix from college.

Sutton is coming off a solid 2024, where he amassed 1,081 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns on 81 receptions. The former pro-bowler would likely have many suitors, but New Orleans would be among the best fits.

New Orleans needs to add wide receiver help, especially with a lot of uncertainty surrounding Chris Olave due to health issues. The Saints don't have an abundance of cap space, but they'll use it when necessary. If they view Olave as a risk long-term, New Orleans has all the reason to acquire Sutton.

A return package of a third-round pick and a fifth-round pick would be a solid return for the 29-year-old receiver. Trading Sutton would sting in the short term, but the Broncos have the receiver depth to give Nix plenty of weapons in 2025 and beyond.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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