Denver Bronco wide receiver Courtland Sutton has taken an impressive step this season to show that he’s a vocal leader on the team. He pays tribute to the legacy of the late Demaryius Thomas, making his position even more special. Sutton entered the NFL in 2018, the same year Thomas endured his final season with the Broncos. Since then, Sutton has stepped into that leadership role that Thomas embodied. This past Sunday, Sutton sported a Thomas jersey following the ceremony where Thomas was inducted into the team’s Ring of Fame, signifying both respect and continuity within the franchise.
Sutton’s work on the field has been instrumental, particularly these last few weeks. Most dramatically on Monday Night Football against the New York Giants, he turned and made an incredible 22-yard back-shoulder catch. He almost effortlessly evaded cornerback Deonte Banks, and ended up taking the ball to the New York 21-yard line. This enormous play was a window into Sutton’s greatness. Furthermore, it advanced the Broncos to field-goal range while trailing by 10 points, with a little over five minutes remaining in the game.
Sutton, the second-longest tenured Bronco, has long been a steady target for quarterback Bo Nix. Collectively, they’ve created one of the most consistent bonds on the team this year. This partnership has come a long way, with Nix frequently targeting Sutton when plays broke down. Sutton right now sits tied for 22nd in the NFL in tight-window targets. An incredible 23.1% of his targets are in true pick a number type situations.
New head coach Sean Payton regularly boasts full faith in Sutton’s potential. He recently called Sutton into his office to discuss game strategies and instill confidence in his role during critical moments. Sutton remembered Payton as he firmly unveiled his vision. “If we’re in this same position at any point in the game, I’ve got a play that will beat it. Just believe me!” This confidence was well-placed as Sutton rose to the challenge after the late realization to switch up game plan.
“I knew if I get a one-on-one, the defensive back’s back is turned, and Courtland goes up and jumps, I know he’s coming down with it,” – Bo Nix
Nix has lauded Sutton not just for his athleticism but for his work ethic and attitude. Nix pronounced his praise for the guy strongly, stating, “I love playing with a guy like him. He’s got the work ethic that outworks everyone in the locker room that lax, prima donna mentality.” He went on to say, “The guy runs more than anyone. He trains more than anybody else. He never complains. And you never hear a word out of him.”
Sutton’s mentality is a product of him wanting to be a center point in the Broncos’ offensive plans. In times of struggle, he’s made it his mission to take the heat off Nix and other teammates. Sutton resounded with the coaches on the sideline that night, saying, “Things aren’t going our way. Let me step in if you guys need me to get blocks and free up everybody else.” With that vigorous commitment, we had an announcer, one of us, ready to say, “I will bear that weight. Let’s go win this game!
This resilience was evident as he made a pivotal play on Sunday, contributing significantly to a comeback effort that initially appeared bleak. Knowing that Sutton steps up when it matters most raises his value in his teammates’ eyes. This repeatedly demonstrates he is a reliable option in crunch time.
As the Broncos continue their season, Courtland Sutton’s leadership both on and off the field will undoubtedly remain vital as they strive for success. He was built in the mold of storied predecessors, such as Demaryius Thomas. At the same time, he’s blazing trails, proving his remarkable spirit and resolve.
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