Damarri Mathis’ season-ending ACL ends his Panthers debut before it starts; Panthers claimed him after Denver cut him, keeping a Bronco-alumnus in Carolina’s rotation in theory. That move tightens Carolina’s secondary depth and shuffles early-season WR/CB expectations as Evero’s system continues to influence fantasy angles.

Ex-Broncos in flux: Jeff Driskel to Raiders practice squad; Ronnie Perkins to Falcons; Garrett Nelson to Saints; Jerjuan Newton worked out for Lions; Chase Edmonds to Colts; Juwann Winfree cleared from Texans IR. These waiver-loop moves shape late-season depth options and dynasty watch lists more than immediate fantasy impact.

Denver’s depth is the headline as Sean Payton vows the right 53 will be found, not just assembled. A blockbuster Week 1 dynamic is possible after Denver traded Devaughn Vele to New Orleans for draft capital, signaling a willingness to move pieces for leverage. With Sam Ehlinger in the mix, the Broncos could pursue additional assets if circumstances allow. Strong camp performances from Eyioma Uwazurike, Audric Estime, and Damarri Mathis heighten the roster’s ceiling, even as waivers loom on cut day.

Cut-downs loom as the Broncos trim from 90 to 53 by Tuesday, then parse waivers through Wednesday’s 11 a.m. ET deadline. The Broncos must balance depth across positions while preserving flexibility for practice squads (up to 16) and potential waivers. The storyline centers on Payton’s philosophy: depth breeds competition, and Denver’s 53 will shape fantasy rosters for weeks to come.

Denver inventories an ACL setback for Nick Gargiulo after a preseason collision, sidelining a seventh-round rookie who had been pushing for a swing guard/center role. Sean Payton confirmed the season-ending injury to Gargiulo, compounding Denver’s alignment questions along the interior line. Gargiulo’s absence tightens the Broncos’ path to roster decisions and creates immediate depth concerns as cuts loom.

Meanwhile, the injury report also notes others not practicing, with Mathis listed as undisclosed but deemed fine by Payton. On the brighter side, Bonitto, Greenlaw, Perry, and Pickett returned to practice. Adkins’ ankle loss signals a potential waiver-wire search for a blocking tight end/fullback, and the Broncos may lean on depth pieces or a short-term add as they finalize roster plans.

The Denver Broncos are faced with tough roster decisions as they approach the preseason cuts. With a current roster of about 55 players vying for 18 spots, several candidates could be traded to simplify these choices. Top trade prospects include cornerback Damarri Mathis, who, despite impressive skills, may be overshadowed by stronger competition like Pat Surtain and Jahdae Barron. Running back Jaleel McLaughlin finds himself in a similar situation, as he competes with standout veterans J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey. Other potential trade pieces include safety Devon Key, defensive lineman Jordan Jackson, and safety JL Skinner, all of whom are at risk of being cut due to a surplus at their respective positions. As the Broncos gear up for their preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers, expect trade buzz to escalate in the lead-up to the final roster deadline.