One trade, cut, signing the Denver Broncos should make

The Denver Broncos missed the playoffs for an eighth consecutive season after a late postseason push fizzled.
 
Now, the team has reached an inflection point, creating a challenging offseason for head coach Sean Payton and Co.
 
With that in mind, here are a trade, cut and signing the Broncos should make in the coming weeks.

TRADE: Wide receiver Courtland Sutton to clear cap space 

While many would suggest moving former first-round pick Jerry Jeudy, fellow wideout Sutton has more trade value. In 16 games, he had 59 receptions for 772 yards and tied for third in the league in receiving TDs (10).
 
Last offseason, the Baltimore Ravens almost acquired the 28-year-old before Denver changed its mind, revoking the offer. 

Contenders who need WR depth, such as the Buffalo Bills, might be interested in the former Pro Bowler. 

Over the Cap estimates the Broncos are $24.1M over the cap. Sutton has the sixth-highest cap hit on the team ($17.3M). Trading him with a post-June 1 designation would save $13.5M.

CUT: Quarterback Russell Wilson
 
Payton recently claimed the Broncos haven't made "a final decision on his future." Still, the relationship seems irreparable. Denver benched Wilson for the season's final two games in favor of backup Jarrett Stidham, who went 1-1 and posted a below-average 31.1 QBR.

If Wilson is still on the roster on March 17, his 2025 salary becomes fully guaranteed ($37M). ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported the 35-year-old isn't expected to waive his no-trade clause.
 
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, releasing the Super Bowl champion will incur $85M in dead money, the largest charge in league history. The Broncos can use a post-June 1 designation to split costs over the next two seasons, softening the financial blow.

The franchise will probably draft a replacement, with Tankathon projecting the Broncos will select Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy with the 12th overall pick.

SIGNING: Tight end Dalton Schultz 
 
The Broncos can't splurge in free agency, but Schultz — who had 59 receptions for 635 yards and five touchdowns in 15 games with the Texans in 2023 — would add punch to an inept passing offense. Denver finished 24th in the league in passing yards (191.9).

Denver needs a viable starting TE. Greg Dulcich missed 15 games with hamstring and foot injuries. Backup Adam Trautman recorded 22 receptions for 204 yards and three touchdown catches in 17 games.
 
According to Spotrac, Schultz's market value is a three-year deal worth $11.3M annually, a stretch for the Broncos. However, if Denver drafts a QB, he'll need dependable pass-catchers to flourish.