With the NFL officially announcing each team’s salary cap hit, the Denver Broncos are strategizing to create roster space for new talent acquisitions in the upcoming NFL draft and free agency. Having remained in Denver throughout his career, Jerry Jeudy has been the subject of trade rumors since last season’s conclusion.
Now, the Broncos have made the decision to move on from the veteran wide receiver, aiming to secure valuable compensation for the upcoming NFL draft.
What do the Broncos get in the Jerry Jeudy trade?
The Broncos have decided to trade Jerry Jeudy to the Browns. As part of the trade, the Broncos will acquire a fifth- and sixth-round draft pick from the Cleveland Browns, providing some compensation for losing the talented wide receiver. This move allows Denver to save nearly $13 million against the salary cap, per Bleacher Report.
Initially, the Broncos rejected an offer from an undisclosed team, consisting of a third- and fifth-round pick, to retain Jeudy. However, circumstances changed, and now the Broncos have agreed to a deal that sends their player to the Browns.
To address potential cap challenges, the Broncos have made strategic moves, including the release of Justin Simmons and Chris Manhertz. Additionally, restructuring Tim Patrick’s deal and adjusting Mike McGlinchey’s contract have contributed to clearing approximately $35 million in cap space.
It’s worth noting that the official processing of the Jeudy trade is pending until the start of the new league year next week. In the meantime, the Broncos are gearing up for additional changes, with plans to release Russell Wilson when the new league year begins. This move, however, comes with a hefty $85 million dead cap hit, which the team intends to spread out over two years.
The vet receiver has averaged 53 receptions and 763 yards per season over the past four seasons throughout his Broncos career.
How did Jerry Jeudy fare this season?
Jerry Jeudy, who once promised his mother to gift a new house, entered the NFL as the Denver Broncos’ first-round pick in 2020. Last season, he racked up 54 catches, and 758 yards, and scored two touchdowns for the Broncos.
As the former Broncos receiver approaches his 25th birthday, he finds himself entering the final year of his rookie contract. The Broncos secured the fifth-year option on his rookie deal in May of the previous year, guaranteeing his salary at a notable $12.99 million for 2024.
While entering the final year of his contract, the Browns have the opportunity to extend his deal, potentially modifying the terms to optimize their cap situation.
Meanwhile, the Browns are known for their past hefty spending in March. Nevertheless, they seem poised to adopt a more conservative approach this year, focusing on retaining their existing roster. Restructuring Deshaun Watson’s contract could further enhance their financial flexibility, potentially freeing up more than $30 million.
For Jeudy, this trade marks a new chapter in his NFL journey, and both Broncos and Browns fans will be anticipating the impact he will bring to his new team.
