Report: Broncos Reach Out To Fitzpatrick, Balk At Salary Demand
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- As Ryan Fitzpatrick's stare-down with the Jets has dragged on, the Denver Broncos have remained his best bargaining chip. But according to one report, the free agent quarterback probably wouldn't receive the big bucks he's seeking in Denver, either.
The Broncos, the only other QB-needy team that is in win-now mode, have reached out to Fitzpatrick's representatives, ESPN reported Sunday. But Denver is also balking at his salary demand, the report said.
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It's unclear how much money exactly Fitzpatrick is asking for, although it's believed to be closer to the range of the $18 million-a-year deals Philadelphia's Sam Bradford and Houston's Brock Osweiler recently signed. The Jets, meanwhile, have reportedly offered him a three-year, $21 million contract.
The ESPN report said the Broncos and Fitzpatrick could revisit talks later, although it's obvious at least one party must bend on its proposal.
Fitzpatrick, 33, passed for 3,905 yards and a team-record 31 touchdowns en route to leading the Jets to a 10-6 record last season.
MORE: Silverman: Jets Make Right Move With Forte, But Fall Way Short With Fitzpatrick
Denver is searching for a quarterback after Peyton Manning retired last week and Osweiler opted to sign with the Texans two days later. The Broncos traded for Mark Sanchez last week. Denver vice president of football operations John Elway called that move "the first step in our process."
The Jets, meanwhile, have been looking into contingency plans in the event they do not re-sign Fitzpatrick. They, along with Denver and Cleveland, have reportedly discussed a possible trade with the San Francisco 49ers for Colin Kaepernick. New York also had former Redskins QB Robert Griffin III in for a visit Friday and Saturday.
ESPN reported that the Jets were impressed by Griffin's workouts.