3 Broncos in danger of getting cut after 2026 minicamp

The Denver Broncos entered the 2026 offseason with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations and a clear determination to maximize the development of quarterback Bo Nix. After showing extremely encouraging signs during the previous campaign, Sean Payton and general manager George Paton refused to settle. They aggressively upgraded the offense and created competition at nearly every position. That approach may ultimately strengthen Denver’s chances of competing in a crowded AFC. Of course, it also means several familiar names are suddenly fighting for their NFL futures. Mandatory minicamp offered an early glimpse into those battles. A handful of players now appear to be firmly on the roster bubble heading into training camp.

Denver’s aggressive offseason

The front office acted with fierce urgency, most notably executing a blockbuster trade with the Miami Dolphins to land dynamic weapon Jaylen Waddle. The acquisition of Waddle, alongside bringing back veteran running back JK Dobbins, signals an intentional shift toward a more explosive, multi-dimensional offense. On the defensive side of the ball, the re-signing of linebacker Alex Singleton and defensive tackle Matt Henningsen has created a massive logjam across multiple position groups. This extreme depth means completely stripping away the job security that many players previously took for granted.

QB Sam Ehlinger

When Denver signed Sam Ehlinger earlier this offseason, the move looked like a straightforward depth addition. The former Texas standout brought experience, mobility, and professionalism to a quarterback room led by Nix.

However, the situation has become considerably more complicated as the offseason program has progressed. Jarrett Stidham continues to possess a significant advantage thanks to his familiarity with Payton’s offense. During offseason workouts and minicamp practices, Stidham consistently looked more decisive and comfortable, maintaining a firm hold on the No. 2 quarterback role.

That leaves Ehlinger fighting for what could be a third-quarterback spot. Sure, some teams carry three passers. However, doing so comes at the expense of valuable depth elsewhere on the roster. Unless Ehlinger dramatically closes the gap on Stidham, Denver may decide that the roster flexibility gained by moving on from him outweighs the value of carrying an extra quarterback.

WR Marvin Mims Jr

Few players on the roster may have more to prove this summer than Marvin Mims Jr. Once viewed as a key part of Denver’s offensive future, Mims now finds himself battling for relevance in a dramatically reshaped receiver room.

The arrival of Waddle immediately altered the hierarchy. Courtland Sutton remains the established veteran presence. Waddle provides the explosive speed element Denver desperately wanted to add. The Broncos also strengthened the room with additional competition. Suddenly, opportunities that once seemed available to Mims are no longer guaranteed.

To his credit, Mims remains one of the team’s most dangerous return specialists. That value could ultimately save his roster spot. However, Payton has consistently emphasized offensive versatility and reliability. If Mims cannot establish himself as a meaningful contributor, Denver may move on from him. For Mims, training camp could determine whether he remains part of the organization’s long-term plans.

RB Tyler Badie

The Broncos’ running back room has quietly become one of the most competitive position groups on the roster. As such, Tyler Badie may find himself squeezed out by simple mathematics.

Denver invested heavily in Dobbins to provide proven production and veteran leadership. Jaleel McLaughlin remains present alongside RJ Harvey and even Jonah Coleman. Payton historically prefers maintaining a relatively streamlined backfield. That often carries only a limited number of running backs while allocating roster spots elsewhere.

Badie has flashed throughout his time in Denver and has consistently earned praise for his effort and versatility. Yet effort alone does not guarantee a roster spot. Unlike some of his competitors, he lacks substantial financial protection or a clearly defined specialty role.

The preseason will be particularly important for Badie. He must prove he can provide unique value either as a runner, receiver, or special-teams contributor. Otherwise, Denver may pick a more versatile option with greater upside at a lower long-term cost.

Tough decisions

The Broncos have spent the last several months constructing one of the deepest rosters of the Sean Payton era. That depth should help the team navigate injuries and compete throughout a demanding AFC schedule. However, it also guarantees difficult decisions when roster cuts arrive.

Ehlinger is fighting to avoid becoming a casualty of the quarterback numbers game. Mims must prove he can offer more than return ability in a crowded receiver room. Badie faces an uphill climb in a backfield loaded with competition. None of these players lack talent, but roster construction is often about fit, opportunity, and financial realities as much as pure ability.

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