Sean Payton Reveals Surprising Qualities That Make Courtland Sutton the Ultimate Pro Athlete

Payton added that Sutton has done well in leading younger players on the roster.

Courtland Sutton’s future with the Denver Broncos just got a whole lot clearer — and for those of us who’ve followed his grind, it’s a relief to see the club locking him down through 2029. It wasn’t a sudden shake — more like a patient puzzle coming together over time. Sean Payton, the head coach, didn’t hold back Tuesday, singing praises about what Sutton brings to the table: leadership, grit, and an unmatched work ethic. It’s clear Sutton’s not just catching passes; he’s catching the attention and respect of the whole locker room, especially the young bucks who watch and learn from his relentless preparation. Drafted back in 2018’s second round, the 29-year-old receiver has been nothing short of a beast in 2024, hauling in 81 catches for over a thousand yards and eight touchdowns. If you ask me, this extension is as much a nod to his talent as it is to the example he sets every damn day in the building. LEARN MORE“No. 1, I mean, he epitomizes what we’re looking for, and then you match that with his play,” Payton said, via Luca Evans of the Denver Post. “I mean, just each box you’re checking — leadership, work ethic. I’m excited for him and for the club. Sometimes they take a little bit of time, but I think throughout the process, there was never that feeling like it wasn’t going to get done. It was just a matter of when.” The Broncos reached an agreement with Courtland Sutton on a contract extension this week, as the receiver is now under contract with the club through 2029. Sutton, 29, was a Broncos second-round pick in 2018. He had one of the best seasons of his career in 2024, catching 81 passes for 1,081 yards with eight touchdowns in 17 games.“If he didn’t say a word, the young guys watch his preparation and his work ethic. But yet, obviously his experience with all of those players — but it really starts with his preparation in here [the building] onto the field. He’s everything you want in a pro.”On Tuesday, head coach Sean Payton spoke highly of Sutton in his press conference.