NFL

Broncos sign WR Courtland Sutton to four-year, $92 million contract extension

Sutton is the perfect encapsulation of simply a good NFL player. The wideout has never been elite — he’s failed to post more than 1,112 receiving yards in a season — but he’s also a clear-cut No. 1 option. For the Broncos, he’s the go-to guy for Bo Nix and an ascendant Denver franchise.

Last season, while playing with the rookie passer, was arguably Sutton’s best as pro. Tallying 81 receptions for 1,081 yards and eight scores, the 29-year-old reestablished himself as a core piece for the Broncos. That alone makes Sutton worthy of this deal, not to mention his steady track record.

It’s fair to wonder, though, how well this agreement will mature, given Sutton’s age. Let’s be positive and leave that discussion for a rainy day, however. For now, the Broncos are the envy of at least 20 other clubs, as they’ve become a potent team, particularly on defense. The hope is that Sutton & Co. can elevate the offense to that level. With this extension, Denver has the opportunity to see that through.

Grade: B+

MLB

Tigers receive:
SP Chris Paddack
RP Randy Dobnak

Twins receive:
C Enrique Jimenez

The struggling Tigers, though still firmly in contention, almost had to make a move. Targeting starting pitching is shrewd, as Detroit has several injured starters, and could use a No. 5 in the rotation. Paddack fits that role well. While he’s no longer the pitcher he was as a rookie with the Padres in 2019, the right-hander has pitched to a 4.95 ERA this season, slightly improving over time. Paddack probably won’t be useful in the postseason, but he’ll serve as a suitable option for the time being.

Dobnak, on the other hand, is simply a throw in. He hasn’t pitched much in the big leagues since 2021, and that almost certainly won’t change with a good Detroit club.

The cost for Detroit is moderate, as Jimenez is a mid-level catching prospect. Just 19, there’s still plenty of time for him to develop into a major-league regular at catcher, however. This is a solid upside play for Minnesota, which has faded from the wild-card picture.

Tigers Grade: C+

Twins Grade: B+