Story perspectives

Broncos finalize 53-man roster, keep Sam Ehlinger

8/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Denver Broncos completed their 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season.
They kept quarterbacks Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger on the active roster.
Ehlinger earned his spot after throwing 233 yards and three touchdowns in the preseason finale.
General manager George Paton said the team could not risk losing Ehlinger.
The Broncos waived draft picks TE Justin Joly, safety Miles Scott and ILB Red Murdock.

History

Historical Context

In 1995, the NFL instituted its first salary-cap ceiling, limiting teams to $34.6 million and prompting the Denver Broncos to slash veteran contracts. The cap forced Broncos owner Pat Bowlen to release 12 players, including veteran linebacker Simon Fletcher, whose 1994 salary topped $2 million. Similarly, in 2026 GM George Paton retained quarterbacks Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger while waiving draft picks Justin Joly, Miles Scott, and Red Murdock. These roster decisions illustrate how salary-cap pressures and depth-chart strategies repeatedly shape the Broncos’ competitive outlook each season.

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Story summary

The Denver Broncos completed their 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season.
They kept quarterbacks Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger on the active roster.
Ehlinger earned his spot after throwing 233 yards and three touchdowns in the preseason finale.
General manager George Paton said the team could not risk losing Ehlinger.
The Broncos waived draft picks TE Justin Joly, safety Miles Scott and ILB Red Murdock.

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