In an expected move, the Broncos released defensive tackle Jurrell Casey Thursday morning, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The Gazette has confirmed this report.

The move frees up approximately $11.875 million in cap space, giving the Broncos now close to $43 million in cap space. Casey, who was traded to the Broncos from the Titans for a seventh round pick in March 2020, had two years left on his $60.4 million contract, but none of that was guaranteed, making this an easy move for Denver. He played in only three games for the Broncos, logging 14 tackles, before suffering a torn bicep in Week 3. 

Casey’s release comes just 15 days after the Broncos released veteran cornerback A.J. Bouye, which created close to $13 million in cap space. Releasing the two veterans was a pivotal move for the Broncos, as they look to re-sign safety Justin Simmons and defensive tackle Shelby Harris to longer deals this offseason. 

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Cornerback and defensive line have now become two of the highest priority positions this offseason. Many have linked Denver to taking a corner at the No. 9 position in the upcoming draft, while younger players like Dre’Mont Jones and McTelvin Agim are expected to fill Casey’s void, much like they did this past season. 

With $43 million in cap space, the Broncos now have the fourth most space in the league. This will allow Denver to not only re-sign a couple key players, but also potentially pursue key free agents or trade for a superstar quarterback, such as DeShaun Watson or Russell Wilson, who might each be on the market soon. 

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