Full Breakdown
Broncos Finalize 2026 Initial 53-Man Roster
8/31/2026, 2:18:05 AM
Roster Overview
The Denver Broncos trimmed their offseason roster to the league-mandated 53 players for the 2026 regular season. The final list includes 26 offensive players, 25 defensive players, and 2 special-teams specialists. Key position groups are:
- Quarterbacks (3) – Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham, Sam Ehlinger.
- Running backs (4) – J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey, Jonah Coleman, Tyler Badie.
- Wide receivers (6) – Courtland Sutton, Jaylen Waddle, Pat Bryant, Marvin Mims Jr., Troy Franklin, Lil’Jordan Humphrey.
- Tight ends (4) – Evan Engram, Adam Trautman, Nate Adkins, Dallen Bentley.
- Offensive line (9) – Garett Bolles, Mike McGlinchey, Ben Powers, Quinn Meinerz, Luke Wattenberg, Kage Casey, Alex Palczewski, Alex Forsyth, Matt Peart.
Defensively, the Broncos kept seven defensive linemen for the second straight year, fielded four outside linebackers, four inside linebackers, five cornerbacks, and five safeties. Wil Lutz and Jeremy Crawshaw remain the sole kicker and punter.
Key Personnel Decisions
Quarterback Room
For the first time since 2024, Denver retained three quarterbacks. Paton emphasized continuity, noting the team “didn’t want to lose” Ehlinger after his strong preseason showing (233 yards, three touchdowns).
Running Back Depth
Paton explained Badie earned the fourth-back spot over veteran Jaleel McLaughlin because of his special-teams contributions and third-down blocking ability.
Tight End Choices
Seventh-round rookie Dallen Bentley survived the cuts, while fifth-round pick Justin Joly was waived despite an 88-yard preseason touchdown. Paton described Joly as “talented” but “raw,” and said the team must make “tough decisions” to build the best roster.
Defensive Line Emphasis
The Broncos kept seven defensive linemen, including newcomers Tyler Onyedim and Sai’vion Jones, to preserve depth that Paton credits for recent sack-leading seasons.
Notable Waivers and Draft-Pick Cuts
The Broncos released several players who appeared on the 2025 roster, most prominently running back Jaleel McLaughlin (906 career rushing yards) and linebacker Drew Sanders. Draft selections waived include tight end Justin Joly (5th round), safety Miles Scott (7th round) and linebacker Red Murdock (7th round).
Official Statements & Responses
General manager George Paton said the organization valued “the passion” each player brought, stressing that special-teams impact and positional versatility guided the final cuts.
Quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who returned to the active roster after a 2025 practice-squad stint, expressed confidence in the organization, noting that roster decisions are “out of my control” but affirming his belief in the team’s direction.
Head coach Sean Payton has not identified a definitive backup quarterback, maintaining a “we’ll see” stance while confirming that the three-quarterback approach will remain for opening week.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was really important to this team, the passion, everything he brings.” — George Paton, general manager
- “Obviously, special teams are involved, third-down ability,” — George Paton, general manager
- “With the D-line and the O-line, the priority we put in those positions and the depth at those positions has really helped us the last couple years,” — George Paton, general manager
What’s Next
Following the roster lock, the Broncos will process waiver claims and assemble a 17-player practice squad, including an extra slot for an international player. Several veterans, such as fullback Adam Prentice, are expected to begin the season on the practice squad before potential elevation.
