In the wake of the NFL’s mandated roster cutdown to 53 players, Denver Broncos General Manager George Paton addressed the media via a Zoom call, shedding light on the key factors that shaped the final roster. Paton, alongside Head Coach Sean Payton, has been meticulously evaluating the team throughout training camp and preseason, culminating in difficult decisions that balance youth, talent, and experience.
Youth and Experience Balance
When asked about the influence of youth in shaping the roster, Paton emphasized the importance of finding the right mix. “Sean has said it a number of times, ‘We’re young and hungry,’ and that was before the cuts. We also have experience in some key areas and we’re just trying to put together our best 53,” Paton stated. While youth was a factor, Paton noted that the roster is fluid and adjustments may still occur.
Quarterback Room Stability
One of the most significant decisions was the decision to retain all three quarterbacks—Bo Nix, Zach Wilson, and Jarrett Stidham—on the initial roster. Paton expressed confidence in the quarterback room, highlighting the competition that brought out the best in all three players. “We think highly of the quarterback room. Bo has earned the opportunity to be the starter. We’re confident in Bo and just look forward to his continued growth and development.”
Paton also praised Wilson, who joined the Broncos with questions about his potential. “We knew Zach was really talented. We didn’t know the person. We love the day-to-day with Zach and we love the person. He’s smart and [has] all the intangibles,” Paton noted. Stidham, too, has been a solid contributor, making the decision to keep all three quarterbacks a strategic one, especially with recent rule changes encouraging teams to retain multiple QBs.
Difficult Decisions at Wide Receiver and Running Back
The decision to release wide receiver Tim Patrick, a long-time Bronco, was one of the more challenging moves for the organization. “Obviously not an easy one. We really like our depth at receiver, and we liked the depth at other positions on our team,” Paton explained. He lauded Patrick’s contributions and resilience, wishing him well as he moves on from Denver.
Similarly, the running back position saw significant competition, leading to the release of Samaje Perine. Paton spoke highly of the young talent in the backfield, including Javonte Williams, Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, and Blake Watson. Special teams contributions were a major factor in these decisions, particularly with the new kickoff rules increasing the importance of versatile players.
Encouraging Rookie Class
Paton expressed optimism about the 2024 rookie class, with six of the seven draft picks making the final roster. “[OLB] Jonah Elliss is everything we saw in college. He obviously can rush the passer,” Paton said. He also mentioned wide receiver Troy Franklin and running back Audric Estime as promising talents who have shown significant growth. “[CB] Kris Abrams-Draine, he was probably the slowest starter in the offseason, but he’s caught up quickly,” Paton added, emphasizing the development seen in training camp.
Special Teams and Roster Management
Special teams play and the new kickoff rules were also critical in roster decisions. Paton noted the increased emphasis on special teams, especially with more than 200 plays anticipated in this area. “[Assistant Head Coach Mike] Westhoff tells me [there are] 200-plus plays on special teams, and so that factors into a lot of our decisions,” Paton remarked.
Moving Forward
Despite the youth on the roster, Paton made it clear that the Broncos’ expectations remain high. “We are really encouraged by what we saw during training camp and the preseason. This 53-man roster gives us the best chance to win,” he stated, emphasizing that the team is focused on winning now, with an eye toward long-term development.
As the Broncos prepare for the regular season opener against Seattle, the final roster represents a blend of young talent and seasoned veterans, all chosen with the goal of immediate and sustained success. Paton and the coaching staff will continue to evaluate and make adjustments as needed, ensuring the Broncos are ready to compete at the highest level.
BRONCOS CUT DAY TRANSACTIONS ↓
RESERVE/INJURED (DESIGNATED FOR RETURN)
CB Damarri Mathis
RELEASED
FB Michael Burton
ILB Jonas Griffith
WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey
C Sam Mustipher
WR Tim Patrick
RB Samaje Perine
WR David Sills V
G Calvin Throckmorton
WAIVED/INJURED
OLB Durell Nchami
WAIVED
RB Tyler Badie
WR Michael Bandy
DL Elijah Garcia
G Nick Gargiulo
P Trenton Gill
DL Matt Henningsen
OLB Thomas Incoom
T Demontrey Jacobs
WR Brandon Johnson
TE Hunter Kampmoyer
DB Tanner McCalister
NT Jordan Miller
CB Quinton Newsome
G Will Sherman
CB Reese Taylor
OLB Dondrea Tillman
WR Jalen Virgil
TE Thomas Yasmin
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