Strategic Player Moves: Navigating the Roster Cutdown
The Impending Roster Crunch: Tough Choices Ahead for the Broncos
With the deadline for NFL roster cuts looming, the Denver Broncos are tasked with reducing their expansive 91-player roster to a compact 53-man squad. This crucial period necessitates shrewd decisions, as some players, though valuable, might become expendable due to the team's depth in certain positions. The focus is on maximizing returns, potentially through trades, to secure future draft picks rather than simply releasing talent.
Jarrett Stidham's Secure Role and the Search for Trade Opportunities
Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham appears to have solidified his position as QB2 for the 2026 season. While there was previous interest from other teams in trading for him, no deal materialized. With Stidham's spot seemingly safe, the Broncos are now looking at other players who could be moved. The question remains whether Sam Ehlinger will also make the final 53 as the third-string quarterback, further impacting roster dynamics.
Running Back Jaleel McLaughlin: A Potential Late-Round Pick Swap
Jaleel McLaughlin, despite accumulating over 1,100 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in his initial two NFL seasons, found himself demoted to the fourth-string running back in 2025. Given the team's depth at the position, it's improbable he'll secure a spot on Denver's active roster in 2026. Consequently, the Broncos are exploring options to trade McLaughlin, ideally for a late-round draft pick exchange, to avoid losing him for nothing.
Outside Linebacker Drew Sanders: A Risk-Reward Trade Scenario
Drew Sanders, a former third-round draft pick, has struggled to meet expectations with the Broncos, largely due to recurring injuries. It might be challenging to secure even a seventh-round pick for him. However, cutting Sanders outright carries the risk of another team quickly claiming him due to his inherent potential. Therefore, a trade, even for minimal compensation, might be a more strategic move than releasing him.
Offensive Lineman Calvin Throckmorton: Veteran Experience for Draft Capital
Calvin Throckmorton has commendably filled in at center during the summer due to injuries to Luke Wattenberg and Alex Forsyth. Despite his solid performance, the Broncos' offensive line depth appears to be established. As a veteran, Throckmorton wouldn't be subject to waivers if cut, but the team might struggle to re-sign him to the practice squad if other teams with offensive line needs offer an active roster spot. Evaluating the trade market for Throckmorton before making a cut is a prudent approach.
Cornerback Reese Taylor: Navigating a Deep Position Group
The Broncos boast significant depth at cornerback, making it unlikely for Reese Taylor to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Demoting him to the practice squad is a risky proposition, as he could easily be claimed off waivers by another team. To mitigate this risk, the Broncos should consider trading Taylor for a late-round pick, ensuring they gain something of value rather than losing him without compensation.
Defensive End Jordan Jackson: A High-Value Trade or Retention
Jordan Jackson is highly likely to make the Broncos' 53-man roster. If released, he would almost certainly be claimed off waivers by another club. Retaining him, however, would mean carrying seven defensive linemen, which is a considerable number for a 3-4 defense. The Broncos face a strategic choice: trade Jackson to free up a roster spot for another position, or keep him and enter the 2026 season with an exceptionally strong defensive line.
Final Preparations: Preseason Finale and Roster Deadline
Following their preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings on Friday evening, the Broncos will have a critical window until Sunday evening to finalize their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 campaign. This period will be marked by intense evaluations and strategic decisions, including potential trades, to ensure the team is optimally positioned for the upcoming season.
