Report: Broncos Might Not Re-Sign Eric Decker, View Him As No. 2 Receiver

Super Bowl XLVIII is undoubtedly Eric Decker’s biggest game in a Denver Broncos uniform, but it might also be his last.

The Broncos view Decker as a No. 2 receiver and are expecting him to seek No. 1-type money, which could impact their pursuit of re-signing him, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Decker, 26, was the Broncos’ second-leading receiver in 2013, setting new career highs with 87 catches and 1,288 yards along with 11 touchdowns. That followed his breakout 2012 season, where he caught 85 passes for 1,064 yards and a league-leading 13 touchdowns. He also ranks third in the NFL in touchdowns (31) over the last three seasons. Only Calvin Johnson (33) and Dez Bryant (34) have more during that time span. Those numbers would make him the No. 1 receiver on most teams around the league, so it’s not unreasonable for him to expect a big payday this offseason. 

With Demaryius Thomas, who was a first-round pick of the Broncos in 2010, entering the final year of his contract next season, the Broncos may have to choose to give the big-money deal to either him or Decker. Thomas has led the Broncos in receiving in each of the past two seasons, and he has established himself as one of the best receivers in the NFL.

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