KANSAS CITY, Mo. —During Demaryius Thomas' nine-year career with the Broncos, he's stood in Kansas City's visiting locker room and addressed the media once a year for nearly a decade.
As the Broncos dressed and prepared to leave Arrowhead Stadium following a 30-23 loss to the Chiefs, Thomas did the same — this time addressing rumors he may be traded ahead of Tuesday afternoon's deadline.
Numerous media reports during the week suggested Thomas could be on the trading block as the Broncos approach the deadline at 3-5, and Thomas admitted those reports bothered him as Denver prepared to play Kansas City.
"I went to work every day like it was normal, [like] nothing was changing," Thomas said. "But people just kept coming left and right [to ask about it].
"… It bothered me. … It'll be interesting to see what happens in the next couple days. It possibly could be my last game as a Bronco."
When asked if he could predict whether he would still be on Denver's roster come Tuesday afternoon, Thomas said he wasn't sure.
"I wish I knew," Thomas said. "I wish I could tell you. I really don't know. … Fifty-fifty [chance], I don't know."
Thomas said no one in the organization has given him any indication that he would be traded. His only news, he said Sunday, has come from his agent.
"I don't believe so," said Head Coach Vance Joseph when asked if Sunday's game was Thomas' last as a Bronco. "I haven't been told that. D.T. had a good week of work, he played hard today, he's all in with us. I have not heard that."
Thomas followed his week of practice — one in which he said he had to make a conscious effort to pretend things were normal — with three receptions for 30 yards. Quarterback Case Keenum targeted no receiver more than he looked for Thomas on Sunday.
Thomas admitted he thinks his status with the Broncos would be less uncertain if the Broncos had gotten a victory in Arrowhead on Sunday. But, as he waits for the news, he'll prepare for the Texans as if he'll be a member of the Broncos on Nov. 4 and beyond.
"I'll just do what I do since I've been here: Go to work, keep preparing for the next opponent and [if] something happens, it happens," Thomas said. "I'm getting ready for my next opponent right now, [but] of course I'm going to think about it."
Thomas, who ranks second in Broncos' history in nearly every statistical receiving category, had the support of his teammates as they addressed questions about Thomas' possible departure.
"D.T.'s the best," Keenum said. "He's a pro. I absolutely love being around him. I love being his teammate. I'm honored to be his teammate. He's got to be the best Broncos wide receiver in history, right? It's a pleasure to be around him, and I'm glad I'm his teammate."
With Tuesday's deadline fast approaching, some clarity about Thomas' future in Denver should soon arrive.
Thomas seemed to find solace, though, in knowing that wherever he ends up this season, he'll still be able to make plays.
"I'll be on a squad," Thomas said. "I'll be able to play ball. I'll be able to do what I love. If it's the Broncos, I would love it. If it's not, it's a business. I've just got to deal with it."
