Sutton, 29, joined the Broncos in 2018, and he endured six losing seasons to begin his career. Last year, in Payton's second season, Denver had a breakthrough and returned to the playoffs for the first time since they won the Super Bowl following the 2015 season.

On performing at 30-something: "I’m a thief when it comes to finding different ways to be better. … Complacency scares me."

After reaching a contract extension with Courtland Sutton, the Broncos should follow this process with other stars.