2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Demaryius Thomas

Jan 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) runs after a reception in the first half during the 2013 AFC Championship game at Sports Authority Field against New England Patriots cornerback Alfonzo Dennard (37) at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos slapped the franchise tag on him to the surprise of nobody. So Demaryius Thomas responded with an early camp holdouts knowing full well he has a new head coach with a new offense in town. So while he may be staying put for 2015, this creates an interesting backdrop for 2016 NFL free agency.

Age: 27-years old
351 receptions
5,417 receiving yards
41 touchdowns
3x Pro Bowls
Record for most receptions in a Super Bowl

New offensive coordinator Rick Dennison didn’t mince words. He know the new offense being installed for the Broncos isn’t going to function anywhere near peak capacity without Thomas on the field. Peyton Manning is 39-years old and it showed late last season as he struggled to get anything going through the air. Imagine what it might be like if he doesn’t have Thomas as an option.

Can Cody Latimer and Andre Caldwell really be expected to pick up that kind of slack? Doubtful. So in truth this is one of those rare cases where the players might have more leverage than the team. That is especially true if Thomas returns and has another Pro Bowl season. At that point Denver would pretty much have to pay through the nose in order to keep him.

Keep in mind he’s already making $12.8 million this season, which is the second-highest number for a wide receiver in the NFL. Only Calvin Johnson makes more at $16.2 million. That is the realm the Broncos will be pushing if they wish to keep him, which is why doubts linger about whether they’ll be willing to do so.

Likeliest Outcome: Re-signs before end of regular season

Next: NFL Free Agency 2015: Jake Long Headlines Best Available

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