The completely guaranteed clauses in the contracts of right tackle Mike McGlinchey and wideout Courtland Sutton have been…

The completely guaranteed clauses in the contracts of right tackle Mike McGlinchey and wideout Courtland Sutton have been activated, so the Denver Broncos may confidently start the upcoming league season.

Sutton’s $13.5 million compensation for 2024 included a $2 million injury guarantee that was changed to a full guarantee, according to Mike Klis of 9NEWS. Sutton’s current contract has two years and about $28 million left on it; moreover, there is a $14 million non-guaranteed sum set up for him in 2025.

Not surprising, considering the Broncos’ top wide receiver’s production. Sutton, who finished the 2023 season with 59 receptions for 772 yards and 10 touchdowns, is the Broncos’ top red-zone threat. His four touchdowns from reception matched for fourth place in the NFL.

Fans of the Broncos should be really happy about this because there had been rumors that Sutton might be a trade candidate. His social media postings suggested that he wasn’t satisfied with the offseason decisions the Broncos made.

Seeing as how Sutton has some guaranteed cash coming in and that Tim Patrick, his Batman, will be back in 2024, it will be fascinating to see if he changes his mind for the rest of the summer.

McGlinchey, a Bronco, also had a contract guarantee that began on March 18 as he entered Year 2. Now, the $17.5 million pay for 2025 is assured in full.

McGlinchey’s contract was adjusted by the Broncos last week. A empty year was inserted, and about $14 million of his $15 million salary was converted to a signing bonus. This left $11 million in salary-cap room for 2024. McGlinchey played well on the right side of the offensive line last season, despite a few puzzling plays (particularly in pass protection).

The Broncos are currently adjusting to life after Russell Wilson. Wilson’s contract has enormous dead money, but the organization is still making every effort to restructure deals and acquire valuable players at a discount.

With Wilson’s contract carrying a $32 million cap hit in 2025 and a larger $53 million dead cap this year, the Broncos should have more room to maneuver in 2025 and beyond to acquire big-name players and assemble a competitive club.