Denver’s path to a 53-man roster in the coming days could involve strategic trades aimed at trimming depth at key spots while preserving flexibility for Week 1. With one more preseason game on the schedule before cuts begin, here are five players the Broncos might consider moving on from, alongside why each move could make sense.
1) Damarri Mathis, cornerback
Mathis has shown enough ability to function as a No. 4 or No. 5 corner, but Denver already has solid depth in the secondary. If the team decides to pursue cap relief rather than risk losing a player at the position, trading Mathis for a late-round draft pick could be preferred to simply cutting him, which would save about $3.4 million in 2024.
2) Eyioma Uwazurike, defensive end
Uwazurike returned from a gambling suspension and appeared in only four games last season. Through two preseason games he has one tackle and one pass breakup, making him a bit of a situational piece. There’s also the consideration that he could clear waivers if placed on the practice squad, which might prompt Denver to trade him to open a spot for another defensive lineman, such as Jordan Jackson.
3) Jordan Jackson, defensive lineman
If Denver chooses to keep Uwazurike or if they recombine the DL group differently, Jackson could be a candidate to move. He dressed for all 17 games last season and posted 17 tackles, two quarterback hits and one sack. He could be at risk of waivers if Denver tries to hide him on the practice squad, which could push the team to shop him for value.
4) Courtney Jackson, wide receiver
Denver’s wide receiver room is crowded, and Sean Payton has suggested that a player currently on the roster could end up on another team’s 53-man roster by Week 1. Jackson has shown danger as a returner and contributed 105 all-purpose yards in recent action, making him a plausible trade candidate if Denver fears he might not survive waivers or if a suitor values his special-teams versatility.
5) JL Skinner, safety
With Sam Franklin likely to secure a spot as the active special-teams safety, Skinner could be squeezed for depth at the safety position and on special teams. If another team seeks more depth at safety and continued special-teams contribution, Denver might explore trading Skinner along with a seventh-round pick for a higher draft selection.
Timeline and context
Following the preseason finale on Aug. 23, the Broncos have until Aug. 26 to finalize their 53-man roster. Until then, trades and last-minute adjustments are plausible as Denver balances competition, depth, and cap considerations.
What this could mean for Denver
– Roster flexibility: Trading depth players for draft capital or later-round picks could help the Broncos preserve capital for future moves while keeping a competitive 53-man core.
– Waiver risks: Several candidates could be subject to waivers if cut, so trades might preserve value that could be lost through the waiver process.
– Tactical balance: The moves reflect Payton’s approach to building a flexible roster with players who can contribute on special teams and provide reliable depth in multiple phases of the game.
Summary
Denver is evaluating potential trades to optimize depth and cap flexibility as they trim toward a 53-man roster after the final preseason game. The focus is on players who could yield value either through immediate contributions on other teams or by freeing up space for more versatile contributors. If the Broncos can execute smart moves, they’ll enter Week 1 with a balanced, competitive roster prepared to adapt as the season unfolds.
Additional note
If you’re following the team, keep an eye on final preseason performances and how the coaching staff talks about each player’s role. The next few days should clarify which players remain, which are moved, and how the roster will shape Denver’s path into the regular season.