Emmanuel Sanders Now At Top Of Broncos’ Priority List, DEN’s Been Reluctant To Offer $10M Per Year

Nicki Jhabvala of the Denver Post writes that with the Broncos locking up Von Miller and Brandon Marshall in recent months, WR Emmanuel Sanders has moved to the “top of the priority list.”

Denver has been discussing a new contract for Sanders before they shifted their focus to locking up Miller before Friday’s deadline.

According to Jhabvala, the Broncos have been reluctant to offer Sanders $10 million a year in a new deal because he has been operating as their No. 2 receiver.

However, the market for receivers has been boosted by the recent contracts signed by Allen Hurns of the Jaguars, Doug Baldwin of the Seahawks and Keenan Allen of the Chargers.

Sanders has said previously that his “heart is in Denver” and he’s hoping to retire as a Bronco.

“Obviously, my heart is in Denver, this city has been so good to me beyond what I can explain,” Sanders said. “From the Broncos Huddle, being with you, to going out and seeing in my first year having so many jerseys, and having so many fans out here in this market. It’s just great to me.

“Who knows what’s going to happen with the contract situation. I want to retire a Bronco. I think everyone wants to know, but it’s all about being able to say, ‘I’m getting paid what I put out.’’

Sanders, 29, Sanders, 29, is a former third-round pick of the Steelers back in 2010. After playing out his rookie contract, Sanders signed a three-year, $15 million contract that included $6 million guaranteed.

He’s currently in the final year of the agreement and stands to make a base salary of $5 million for the 2016 season.

In 2015, Sanders appeared in 15 games for the Broncos and recorded 76 receptions for, 1,135 yards receiving and six touchdowns. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 10 receiver out of 121 qualifying players.

We’ll have more regarding a new contract for Sanders as the news is available.