Demaryius Thomas: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation Surrounding Free-Agent WR

The Denver Broncos are set to face an offseason where they will be forced to make several key decisions due to a crowded group of potential free agents. None will be more impactful than Demaryius Thomas, who would surely generate plenty of interest on the open market. Denver is expected to use the franchise tag on him.

Continue for updates.

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Broncos Expected to Franchise Tag Thomas on Monday

Monday, March 2

"Broncos will place their franchise tag of WR Demaryius Thomas before today's 4 ET deadline," reported ESPN's Adam Schefter. Mike Klis of The Denver Post reported the same yesterday.

On Feb. 19, Broncos general manager and executive vice president of football operations John Elway confirmed that the team planned to use the franchise tag on Thomas if both sides failed to reach a new deal immediately, according to Lindsay Jones of USA Today.

Elway went on to talk about how the team views the star wide receiver, per Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com: "Our goal is to get something done with Demaryius ... that market is changing, that wide receiver market is changing too, but the bottom line is we want Demaryius to be a Bronco."

On Feb. 11, Chris Wesseling of NFL.com provided a synopsis of NFL Network's Ian Rapoport discussing the likelihood of the Broncos using the franchise tag on Thomas during an appearance on NFL Total Access:

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NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the Broncos are set to wield the franchise tag, if necessary, to keep their ultra-talented No. 1 receiver.

There have been no talks between the team and Thomas' camp for some time, per Rapoport.

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"Applying the franchise tag to Thomas would cost roughly $13 million," Wesseling noted. "It would also limit the organization's options with Julius Thomas, another impending free agent."

On Feb. 4, Bleacher Report NFL analyst Chris Simms explained whether Denver should use the franchise tag on Thomas:

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Jets Reportedly Interested in Thomas

Friday, Feb. 13

Bleacher Report's Matt Miller reported that he was "told the New York Jets plan to roll out the red carpet for Demaryius Thomas if he doesn't receive the franchise tag from the Denver Broncos."

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Broncos Face Big Decision on Thomas in Free Agency

Tuesday, Jan. 20

Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jason Cole reported in the following video that Denver is likely to use the franchise tag on the star wide receiver:

Thomas flashed plenty of upside during his first two seasons in the NFL. It wasn't until Peyton Manning showed up in Denver that his career took off, though. And since that point, they have been one of the most dynamic combinations in the league.

The Georgia Tech product has racked up three straight seasons of at least 90 catches, 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns. He's a vital part of a Broncos offense that's ensured the team has remained in the championship mix on an annual basis.

It's a situation he would like to keep intact, if possible. Arnie Stapleton of The Associated Press passed along Thomas' response when asked during an appearance on NFL Network if he would take less money to remain with the Broncos.

"Of course, why not?" Thomas said. "Peyton is one of the best in the game, and I've been blessed to have him as my quarterback. I learned so much from him. Denver, of course I've got to take my hats off to them, because they took a chance of drafting me in the first round."

That said, it still comes down to finding common ground between the sides. It's often a difficult process, even if both parties are hoping for the same outcome.

If they aren't able to reach an agreement or don't use the tag, it would be a significant setback for the Denver offense. Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus highlighted Thomas' effectiveness:

Should Thomas become available, he will likely get a chance to choose between numerous potential suitors. His combination of size and speed would be a welcome addition to the high number of teams looking for an upgrade at the position.

Eric Decker could be a cautionary tale, though. He signed a big deal with the New York Jets but got caught in a far less productive offense on a lackluster team. It's something Thomas must at least consider before making any final decisions.

All told, it could very well become one of the most interesting stories to watch during the offseason. Thomas is the type of player who can help shift the balance of power, especially if he eventually lands with another AFC squad.

With that being said, it sounds as though Denver will do whatever it takes to keep him in the fold.