Are expectations for Broncos rookie WRs Sutton, Hamilton too high?

Throughout the offseason, the buzz around Broncos OTAs included how rookie wide receivers Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton could not only push Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders but also make a big impact for Denver’s offense in 2018.

But taking a step back to evaluate, “Stokley and Zach” hosts Brandon Stokley and Zach Bye asked on Monday if perhaps the expectations for Sutton and Hamilton have been set too high looking through the lens of another rookie pair — Thomas and the since-departed Eric Decker.

Thomas and Decker have had strong careers in the NFL since being drafted in the first and third round in 2010, respectively, each eclipsing the 5,000 receiving yards and 50 touchdown receptions mark in their career.

However, the duo accounted for only 28 receptions, 389 yards, and three catching touchdowns their rookie season with the Broncos.

So, is it fair to expect even more from Sutton and Hamilton — drafted in the second and fourth rounds — in their rookie seasons?

“Don’t judge these guys by their rookie years, and don’t expect a lot from these guys,” Stokley said on Monday. “A lot was expected of DT — a big, strong, physical guy who could go out there and make a lot of big plays down the field. But you didn’t see a whole lot of that his rookie season.

“But how has it turned out for both of those guys? Pretty good, right? But their rookie year was a struggle.”

Stokley said it shouldn’t be a worry for Broncos Country as well because there is enough help to step up and be playmakers for quarterback Case Keenum.

“I think we do have enough on this football team if it’s not Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton,” Stokley said. “And, hopefully, one of those guys does take a big step forward this year and plays a big role on this offense.”

Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.