{
  "id": 4541642,
  "title": "Winners and losers from Broncos’ initial 53-man roster",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/winners-and-losers-from-broncos-initial-53-man-roster",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-31T01:15:36.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/winners-losers-broncos-initial-53-011536892.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Denver Broncos finalized their 53-man roster on Sunday, reducing the initial 91-player roster down to the final number. Several players emerged as winners and losers from the initial roster cut.\n\nQuarterback Sam Ehlinger emerged as a winner, making a case for the backup position in the summer. Although Jarrett Stidham started two preseason games, Ehlinger's performance against the Minnesota Vikings sealed his spot on the roster. General manager George Paton stated they didn't want to lose him after a competitive summer.\n\nRunning back Jaleel McLaughlin, however, was among the losers. The Broncos put McLaughlin on the practice squad in 2025, and further drafted Jonah Coleman in the third round the following year. McLaughlin became expendable, leading to his removal from the 53-man roster.\n\nRunning back Tyler Badie, on the other hand, was named to the roster ahead of McLaughlin. Badie struggled during the preseason but was deemed essential by coach Sean Payton. He appeared in 15 games, ensuring the trust between Payton and Badie.\n\nLinebacker Red Murdock, often referred to as \"Mr. Irrelevant,\" showed his potential during the preseason, making tackles and even forcing a fumble. His performance made a strong case for his inclusion on the roster. However, Murdock was cut, and it's hoped he clears waivers and joins the practice squad as a valuable backup.\n\nLastly, tight end Caleb Lohner won a spot on the roster despite his limited preseason participation. The Broncos opted for Lohner over fifth-round pick Justin Joly and veteran Lucas Krull. Despite not playing in the preseason and being held out for most of training camp, Payton was impressed by Lohner's development. Lohner will start the year on short-term injured reserve, and the Broncos will continue to adjust their practice squad in the days and weeks to come.",
  "summary": "The Denver Broncos initial roster is set! Check out our winners and losers from the first 53.",
  "key_points": [
    "Quarterback Sam Ehlinger wins backup spot",
    "Running back Jaleel McLaughlin becomes expendable",
    "Tight end Caleb Lohner starts year on IR"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The Broncos' 53-man roster cuts solidify the backup quarterback, running back, and tight end positions, while also indicating which players will be developed further on the practice squad.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}