Odds stacked against Shane Ray sticking with Broncos past 2018
May 21, 2018, 5:12 PM | Updated: 5:13 pm
Since the implementation of the fifth-year option for first-round NFL Draft picks in 2011, just five of the 45 players who had their options declined re-signed with their team — just more than 11 percent.
So, with the Denver Broncos opting to not exercise linebacker Shane Ray’s $9.23 million fifth-year option earlier this month, the likelihood he is a Bronco past next season declined significantly.
But, could there be a scenario in which Ray remains with the Broncos past 2018?
“Pritchard and Cecil” co-host Mike Pritchard said on Monday he couldn’t help but to think Ray will be out of Denver one way or another after next season, but said there’s at least one way he could land back in orange and blue.
“… A scenario that could land Shane Ray back here is if he goes out there and just has an average year,” Pritchard said. “Then there’s not a lot of takers in free agency, and he wants to stay home with the Denver Broncos, the team that selected him.”
The Broncos would get Ray long-term, and Ray would get paid what he deserves.
However, Pritchard said he anticipates more lucrative scenario for Ray after the 2018 season.
“I’m anticipating Shane Ray having a good year, a great year even, and then becoming an unrestricted free agent,” Pritchard said. “I don’t know if the Broncos can afford him at that point …”
“Schlereth and Evans” co-host Mark Schlereth also said Monday he believes the Broncos and Ray will part ways after next season, but not necessarily due to a Pro Bowl-level performance by the pass rusher.
“I think they worry about (Ray gets) hurt at the end of next year and you’re on the hook for $9.2 million,” Schlereth said of the Broncos front office.
Because of the history that accompanies Ray — including an injury-riddled 2017 campaign — Schlereth said the linebacker’s not only at risk of overcompensating and hurting himself elsewhere but also “it’s really hard to play great when you’re nursing something that bothers you.”
“I think you look at two factors alone and you’re just like, it’s not worth the risk,” Schlereth said.
Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @johnnyhart7.
