The Sports Xchange

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas is working out, but he might not be able to keep up with the new offense if he continues to stay away from drills and the installation of a new scheme, coach Gary Kubiak said Tuesday.

Thomas, unhappy he was designated the franchise player in free agency rather than rewarded with the massive payday and guaranteed contracts of other top-flight receivers, is keeping in touch with Kubiak and offensive coordinator Rick Dennison. But he’s not up to speed on the latest phase of installation in the fresh offense and Kubiak said wide receivers have the most to learn.

“I know he’s working. I’ve been in contact with him. I don’t know if it’s ever the same, you know, when you’re not working here with the guys. But it is what it is, and it’s going to get worked out,” Kubiak said. “He’s going to be here, and he’s going to be a great player for this football team.”

Kubiak said he discussed recently with Broncos vice president John Elway the next steps in Thomas’ deal. He will make $12.823 million in 2014 unless the sides can reach a new deal by July 15.

Two previous franchise players, left tackle Ryan Clady and placekicker Matt Prater, were able to complete new long-term contracts before the deadline.

The top receivers in the NFL have deals worth more than $100 million. Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones and Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, also unsigned as a franchise player, are next in line for what most expect to be very lucrative deals.

“He’s got all our cutups and all those type of things. Peyton (Manning) and he are visiting consistently,” Kubiak said.