The Denver Broncos are officially in offseason mode, and there’s a sense of purpose in the air at Dove Valley. Head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton aren’t just tinkering around the edges-they’re laying the groundwork for what could be a pivotal offseason in Denver’s climb back to sustained relevance.
The first order of business? Reshaping the coaching staff.
The Broncos have already parted ways with three assistant coaches, signaling a clear intent to recalibrate after a season that showed promise but ultimately came up short. This isn’t about blowing things up-it’s about refining the structure and sharpening the edges.
Payton, in particular, is known for being meticulous with his staff, and every change made is likely with a specific vision in mind.
But perhaps the most intriguing storyline heading into this offseason is the team’s financial flexibility. For the first time in a while, the Broncos are out of the salary cap bind that’s limited their maneuverability in recent years. With roughly $27.5 million in cap space heading into 2026, the front office has room to make meaningful additions-and potentially some tough subtractions.
There are a few big names on the roster whose futures could be in question if Denver wants to free up even more space. Right tackle Mike McGlinchey, who came in with high expectations, could be a post-June 1st cut, saving the team $17.5 million.
Guard Ben Powers is another potential cap casualty-moving on from him would free up $12.7 million. Then there’s tight end Evan Engram, whose fit in the offense never quite materialized the way many hoped.
Releasing him would return about $6.5 million to the books. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, battling health concerns, could also be on the chopping block, with an $8 million savings attached.
These aren’t easy decisions, but they speak to the bigger picture: the Broncos are in a position to reshape the roster in a meaningful way. They’re coming off a season that, while frustrating at times, showed real flashes-particularly at quarterback. With a young signal-caller who’s quickly ascending into top-10 territory league-wide, Denver is becoming a more attractive destination for free agents.
That’s a big deal. Teams with stability under center and a respected coaching staff tend to draw interest from impact players looking for the right situation. And with the Broncos finally having the financial breathing room to make competitive offers, they’re in position to capitalize.
Of course, the draft remains a critical part of the offseason blueprint. Payton and Paton will be zeroing in on prospects who can contribute right away, particularly in areas where depth and consistency were issues in 2025. And given Payton’s track record of developing young talent, expect Denver to target players who fit not just a scheme, but a culture that’s being carefully cultivated.
This offseason feels like a turning point. The Broncos have the cap space, the quarterback, and a coaching staff that’s being tailored for the next step.
There are still holes to fill and decisions to make, but the foundation is there. And for the first time in a long time, Denver enters the offseason not just hoping to compete-but expecting to.