Renck: DT’s ‘exuberance’ encouraging for Broncos WR’s 2017 season

Demaryius Thomas’ 2016 season was his worst statistically since becoming an every-game starter for the Denver Broncos in 2012.

Thomas, whose production was likely hampered by a lingering hip injury sustained in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers, had statistic lows in all major receiving categories in 2016 — including 12.0 yards per reception, the lowest of his career.

But the now-veteran receiver told the media during last week’s OTAs that he’s feeling better at this point than any other time in his career.

“If you go out without pain, you can run routes on this side or that side. It’s basically getting equal now,” Thomas said. “There’s more joy. I’m having a lot more fun. I’m not worried about guys covering me on one side or the other. I’m enjoying it.”

And it’s that enthusiasm that has Denver 7 Broncos Insider Troy Renck anticipating a comeback campaign for DT.

When Renck asked Thomas last week what it means that new head coach Vance Joseph wants him to dominate, he said, with a laugh, “Finally, somebody had to say it.”

But in a “crossroads” season for Thomas, Renck questioned what a successful comeback looks like for the 29-year-old wideout.

“I know he’s going to be better than last year, but what does that mean? Is that 1,300 yards and nine scores? Is that just a little bit of improvement over this year?” Renck asked.

“But the offense is going to be much more friendly to him. He is excited. I haven’t seen that kind of excitement in him except for the last year when (Adam) Gase was here, in terms of the offense.”

Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @johnnyhart7.