The Denver Broncos got back on the practice field on Wednesday, but they were noticeably missing two-time Pro Bowler and wide receiver Courtland Sutton.
Sutton is one of the longest-tenured players on the team. He is also the clear-cut No. 1 target in the passing game for quarterback Bo Nix. His absence would be a significant setback for a team looking to reach the Super Bowl after falling in the AFC Championship Game last season.
Naturally, then, his absence caused a stir.
Courtland Sutton Not Practicing for Broncos
GettyCourtland Sutton has not practiced in back-to-back days.
“#Broncos WR Courtland Sutton and C Luke Wattenberg are not in uniform again today,” The Denver Post’s Parker Gabriel posted on X on August 5.
“Interesting, particularly with Sutton.”
Sutton, 30, is coming off consecutive seasons with over 1,000 yards receiving. He earned his second Pro Bowl nod last season. The Broncos acquired speedster Jaylen Waddle in a trade with the Miami Dolphins this offseason.
They also have several depth options who can help carry the load. That is, if Sutton is forced to sit. Make no mistake, the Broncos would miss Sutton on the field if that were the case.
But Broncos head coach Sean Payton said after practice that Sutton will return on Thursday.
He did attend the session, which was encouraging.
“Broncos Courtland Sutton comes out without pads and helmet,” The Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson posted on X a short while after the initial news broke. “We will see if it’s back to back vet days.”
Sutton has been durable for the Broncos, appearing in at least 15 games in each of the past five seasons and in seven of his eight seasons as a pro.
Broncos Down Multiple Starters
GettyDenver Broncos edge rusher Nik Bonitto did not practice on Wednesday.
Sutton’s status took on even more significance amid the absence of Wattenberg, who was unable to finish practice on Monday with an injury. The Broncos turned to Alex Forsyth in Wattenberg’s absence, continuing that on Wednesday.
Rookie Gavin Ortega took over C3 duties, with Forsyth, Nix’s former college teammate, moving up a rung into the starting group for the time being.
Calvin Throckmorton moved into the primary backup role.
Additionally, Broncos Pro Bowl outside linebacker Nik Bonitto was also sidelined during practice, attending but not participating. Payton downplayed both injuries. If there is a time to use an overabundance of caution, it is in training camp.
Still, the Broncos would surely much rather avoid having any setbacks with starters like Sutton, Bonitto, and Wattenberg. That is, if they can at all help it.
Unfortunately, injuries are a theme of the NFL.
Broncos Address Concerns Over Two-Time Pro Bowl Wide Receiver