Kyle Orton Waived by Broncos; Chiefs and Bears Likely to be Interested

Three months after the Broncos seriously discussed trading Kyle Orton to the Dolphins, they placed him on waivers. That means instead of getting a draft pick or two in return for him, they’re letting him go for nothing. Actually, the Broncos botched the situation so badly they already paid Orton around $6 million if our numbers are correct. Whoever claims him will be required to pay $2.58 million, according to The Denver Post.

The Broncos are now fully invested in Tim Tebow for the rest of the season. The decision makes sense given that Tebow has led them to four wins in their last five games. They also must believe that Brady Quinn is a competent backup. The statement from coach John Fox confirms that notion.

“We feel good about our quarterback group, and this gives Kyle an opportunity to help another team and showcase his talents.”

It’s a generous move by the Broncos to waive Orton. Now that he’s on waivers, a few quarterback-needy teams will likely be interested. The Redskins, at 3-7, could claim him just to keep other teams from getting him, though he probably isn’t much of an upgrade over Rex Grossman at this point in the year.

The other two teams that likely will be interested are the Chiefs and Bears. Kansas City is 4-6, still in the AFC West hunt, and they played Tyler Palko at quarterback Monday. They could desperately use some quarterback help and may be interested in an upgrade.

The Bears are the team that may have the strongest interes in Orton. The organization drafted him, and he played two seasons for them. The thumb injury to Jay Cutler also inspired Orton to ask the Broncos to be placed on waivers. Chicago is 30th in the waiver order, so 29 teams would have a chance to claim him first. If he does get to them, they could let him pass and sign him as a free agent for a cheaper price.

Right now, we’re guessing the Chiefs will end up with Orton.