Preseason Analysis: Brandon Marshall

Brandon Marshall wants out of Denver. Marshall reportedly requested the trade from team owner Pat Bowlen on Friday.

The Pro Bowl receiver, who will be entering his fourth season, did not attend the mandatory weekend mini camps. Marshall is demanding a trade, stating that he is underpaid and very uncomfortable with the Broncos staff.

Last year, Denver’s medical team wrongly diagnosed Marshall’s hip injury. Regardless, he underwent hip surgery on March 31, 2009, and shouldn’t be ready to practice until the end of July.

At $2.2 million a season, the Broncos are getting a huge deal with Marshall. An astronomically low contract for his caliber combined an inexperienced staff, and Brandon Marshall wants out of Denver.

No teams have currently expressed interest in Marshall thus far. He has been a constant legal hassle throughout his college and professional career, which might deem him ‘untradeable’. However, he is a tall receiving threat that could draw exposure to teams such as the Giants, Ravens, Bears and Eagles.

Marshall has pulled down 100+ receptions and 1,200 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons.

If he wants out of Denver, he will certainly have to get his legal and medical issues under control. Whether he remains a Bronco in 2009 is unknown, but we like his odds of a third consecutive 100-reception season.

Treat him as a low-end #1 receiver in most fantasy formats.