Denver Broncos: Looking ahead for the stellar 2018 rookie class

DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 15: Phillip Lindsay #30 of the Denver Broncos carries the ball against the Cleveland Browns at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 15: Phillip Lindsay #30 of the Denver Broncos carries the ball against the Cleveland Browns at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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Denver Broncos
DENVER, CO – NOVEMBER 25: Wide receiver Courtland Sutton #14 of the Denver Broncos stands on the field as players warm up before a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on November 25, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

Courtland Sutton, WR

Courtland Sutton left some plays out on the field in 2018, but overall had a very good rookie season and showed flashes of dominance.

Sutton ended up catching 42 passes for 704 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 16.8 yards per reception.

He was a big play threat from the minute he took the field for the Broncos in practices, making one highlight-reel catch after another.

The key going forward is going to be getting Sutton to make plays on a more consistent basis and probably become a 75-85 catch type of player.

How will he accomplish that? Well, Sutton is going to need some help from his quarterback, but he’s also going to have to find ways to get open on a more consistent basis. Teams pressed Sutton almost every single play, challenging him to win with quickness. More often than not, the Broncos needed longer-developing pass plays to get Sutton open so he could use his size to his advantage.

His game will continue to evolve. This is a special talent with a knack for winning contested catches. Sutton is more than just a jump ball player — he’s got star receiver potential and year two should extract more of that.