The Broncos gave defensive back Kareem Jackson a three-year deal that averaged $11 million per season in March. That probably didn’t sit well with cornerback Chris Harris, who was set to earn just $8.9 million in 2019.
So Harris asked for a pay raise and Denver said the team wouldn’t revise or extend any contracts until after the draft. Then general manager John Elway said during a press conference that the team would talk about Harris’ contract, not necessarily give him a new one.
That probably upset Harris as shortly after that press conference he gave the team an ultimatum: pay him or trade him to someone that will.
That might have been a negotiating tactic from Harris but the Broncos seemingly took him seriously and there were rumors leading up to the draft that the four-time Pro Bowler might be traded.
“I thought I would [be traded],” Harris said on May 29. “I thought I was going to get traded at one time in the offseason, and it didn’t happen. God works for a reason and I’m back. I’m ready to roll.”
In the end, the two sides were able to work out an agreement on a revised one-year deal and Harris returned to the team in time for the final week of organized team activities.
“It felt good [returning to the facility],” Harris said. “Everybody has welcomed me in with open arms. That’s what you want man, to feel that you’re a part of the team, that you’re loved and everybody respects your game. They do. They respect me, so I love that.”
