Broncos’ Baron Browning doesn’t want to be traded; No extension talks underway?

At 5-3 this year, the Broncos could be in a position to add before the trade deadline, but a few players have been mentioned as targets for other teams. Among them is an outside linebacker Baron Browning.

As a pending free agent, Browning could arouse interest from teams looking to add depth to the pass-rush department for the stretch run. The 25-year-old worked as an inside linebacker during his rookie season but has since become a key figure along the edge. Particularly heading into the 2024 season, Browning’s playing time has decreased, but he did miss four games due to a foot injury.

The Ohio State product is now healthy and competing for playing time, among others Nik Bonitto and co-conscript for 2021 Jonathan Cooper. The latter could become Denver’s priority when it comes to an extension, and in that case, Browning could be worth trading away before a free agent leaves. However, if the former third-rounder has his way, he will remain in the Mile High City past the upcoming deadline.

“I really try not to burden myself with things I have no control over,” Browning said when asked about a possible transaction (via Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post). ‘If I worry about that, there’s no point. I just try to stay in the moment and stay where my feet are. I love it here. I love my teammates. This is where I was called up. And I hate moving.”

Almost at the bottom of the league in terms of hood spacethe Broncos could be in line for a significant contract or two extension. However, the financial benefits of trading Browning would be minimal as he is on a rookie contract. Veteran receiver Courtland Sutton – which is located again another team’s trading radar – on the other hand, would provide more breathing space.

Browning also noted that he is not aware of any expansion talks between his representation and the Broncos. Cooper will need a new deal this offseason, while Bonitto will be eligible for an extension this spring. It wouldn’t be a surprise to keep one or both members of that pairing long-term, but Browning could very well find himself in that situation. With the Nov. 5 deadline approaching, Denver will have to decide at least whether or not he remains in the team’s 2024 plans in the coming days.