Earlier this year, Denver Broncos General Manager John Elway stated the team would wait until the 2019 NFL Draft is over before engaging contract discussions with All-Pro cornerback Chris Harris Jr.
Harris opted to skip the Broncos voluntary offseason program, and elected to work out on his own.
Originally scheduled for Monday, the Broncos unexpectedly rescheduled the pre-draft press conference for Tuesday at noon. Elway opened the pre-draft press conference by saying, “Welcome to the most irrelevant press conference of the year.”
John answered questions regarding the draft and prospects with a professional tone that is expected of an NFL executive. Then, Elway suddenly captured the attention of Broncos Country.
When asked why he’s been adamant about addressing Chris Harris Jr.’s contract situation after the draft, he said, “I don’t have time right now. I’m busy with the draft. We’ll talk about Chris. He’s under contract, so we’ll talk about that when the draft is over. When I say this, I said we’re going to talk about it. It doesn’t mean we’re going to do it.”
#Broncos Elway said again that he planned to talk with @ChrisHarrisJr reps after draft. Said hasn't had time. Said hasn't thought about trading him, and has no issue with him not attending voluntary workouts. #Denver7
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) April 23, 2019
After being asked if trading Harris is a possibility, Elway said, “I haven’t even though about that. So, no. I haven’t gotten there. Like I said, we’ll talk about Chris’ contract when the draft’s over and see what they’re looking for.”
The Broncos will report to the first mandatory organized team activity (OTA) on May 13. Will Harris will continue to remain absent from the team, let alone stay a Bronco in the upcoming season?