Manning could easily dip into his hefty contract, and provide Thomas with the financial security his been seeking. Players hit with the franchise tag, have until the July 15 deadline to sign long-term contract extensions, so the pressure is on.
The pressure is even greater in Denver, with Peyton Manning likely to embark on his final NFL season. Manning won’t be successful without his top wide receiver in the fold.
According to Ian Rapoport, Manning is heated about Demaryius Thomas not being in Denver for OTAs, and even more about him not having a new contract.
If there is no deal in place by the deadline, Rapoport adds, don’t expect Thomas to report to training camp. The receiver is set to earn $12.8 million in 2015. Such an event could likely start Manning’s final season off with a controversy that could possibly derail the Broncos season.
The owners and executives for Thomas, Julio Jones, A.J. Green and Dez Bryant are waiting for someone else to set the market.
The 27-year-old had 111 catches last season for a career-high 1,619 yards and 11 touchdowns.