The Broncos got off to a hot start against the Saints on Thursday night, taking a 16-3 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Denver quarterback Bo Nix was productive in the first two frames, completing 31 of 21 passes for 134 yards and hitting seven different players through the air.

However, missing from this group was receiver Courtland Sutton, the team's best pass catcher so far this season with 277 yards on 21 receptions for two touchdowns. The seventh-year Bronco had no goals in the first 30 minutes of play and was virtually nonexistent.

Here's everything you need to know about whether Sutton plays today, including how the receiver was held without a catch in the first half of the team's game Thursday night against the Saints.

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Is Courtland Sutton playing today?

Yes, Sutton is playing today. However, when Broncos coach Sean Payton was asked about his lack of presence at halftime tonight, he said it was due to his game plan against the Saints' zone defense.

“I think we're getting a lot more zone, so they're trying to keep an eye on the (quarterback), and I think when you're in the man you can get mixed up more sometimes,” he said. “There’s a lot more man coverage tonight than we’ve ever seen.”

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Sutton is still on the field a lot for Denver, easily leading all receivers in snaps and routes run.

Broncos halftime WR snap counts and routes

Courtland Sutton 35-23
Troy Franklin 21-20
Lil'Jordan Humphrey 21-8
Devaughn Vele 20-19
Marvin Mims Jr. 12-10

Of 41 games, 28 were passing plays

— Nathan Jahnke (@PFF_NateJahnke) October 18, 2024

Is Courtland Sutton injured?

No, Sutton is not injured and will play against the Saints in Week 7.

Courtland Sutton stats vs. Saints

At half-time, Sutton had not been targeted at all.

Sutton entered Week 7 as the team's leader in targets and receiving yards. The next two candidates are receiver Josh Reynoldsm, who missed Thursday's game with a broken finger, and running back Javonte Williams, who collected 23 receiving yards on three catches in the first half.