Denver Broncos Trim Roster Ahead of Training Camp and Set Lineup

Denver Broncos unveiled a 91-man offseason roster on July 6, 2026, adding UFL wide receiver Hakeem Butler and cornerback Sean Fresch while waiving cornerback Paul Manning and wide receiver Michael Woods. The moves clear space for rookies reporting July 22 and veterans arriving July 28, as the team prepares for its first summer practice on July 31.

Who made the latest roster changes?

The Broncos released cornerback Paul Manning with an injury settlement and waived/injured wideout Michael Woods, who later reached a settlement. To replace them, Denver signed UFL talent Hakeem Butler at receiver and cornerback/returner Sean Fresch. The club also added tryout offensive lineman Reid Holskey and cornerback Blake Cotton, cutting offensive lineman Nash Jones and cornerback Ahmari Harvey to make room.

Why does Jeremy Crawshaw matter?

Australian punter Jeremy Crawshaw occupies an international exemption slot, allowing Denver to exceed the standard 90‑player limit by one. Crawshaw will count against the 53‑man roster during the regular season, but the Broncos can keep a 17th international player on the practice squad this fall, giving them extra depth at the specialist position.

What does the roster look like?

The 91-man list features quarterbacks Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger; a mix of veteran backs like J.K. Dobbins and newcomers such as RJ Harvey; and a crowded receiver corps that includes Courtland Sutton, Jaylen Waddle and the newly signed Hakeem Butler. Tight ends range from Evan Engram to Adam Trautman, while the offensive line blends seasoned starters Mike McGlinchey and Garett Bolles with fresh faces like Reid Holskey. Defensively, the squad fields a blend of veterans and rookies across the line, linebackers and secondary, highlighted by OLB Nik Bonitto and CB Pat Surtain.

How does this affect the Broncos' outlook?

With a 5‑12 record that places them 14th in the NFC and a one‑game winning streak as of July 8, 2026, Denver hopes the roster tweaks give the coaching staff more options to turn the season around. The team will face the Kansas City Chiefs on September 15, 2026, in its next regular‑season matchup, making camp performance crucial for depth and scheme decisions.

What’s next for the Broncos?

Two weeks into camp, preseason games begin in August, giving coaches a chance to evaluate the new additions against established players. Success in those contests could earn fringe players a spot on the final 53‑man roster, while injuries or underperformance may trigger further moves before the regular season kicks off in September.

Key dates: Rookies report July 22, veterans July 28, first practice July 31, preseason starts mid‑August, regular season opens September with the Chiefs showdown. The Broncos’ roster moves set the stage for a pivotal summer as they aim to improve on a disappointing 5‑12 finish.