The Denver Broncos ushered in the first official phase of their 2026 offseason on February 2, executing a series of front-office and roster maneuvers designed to build upon their 14-3 campaign that ended in the AFC Championship Game. The day was marked by two significant developments: the promotion of two key offensive coaches and the expiration of contracts for ten practice squad players, setting the stage for free agency.
Webb, Kilgore Earn Promotions on Offensive Staff
Head Coach Sean Payton solidified his offensive coaching staff for the coming season by elevating Davis Webb to the role of offensive coordinator. Webb, who served as the team's quarterbacks coach during the 2025 season, was a sought-after candidate in this year's head coaching cycle, interviewing for multiple vacancies. His promotion from within is seen as a move to maintain continuity and build on the offensive system that helped quarterback Bo Nix thrive in his second professional season.
"Davis has shown tremendous leadership and a sharp understanding of our scheme," Payton was quoted in a team release. "His work with Bo and the entire quarterback room was instrumental last year, and we're confident in his vision and play-calling ability as we take the next step."
Webb's former role will be filled by Logan Kilgore, who is promoted to quarterbacks coach. Kilgore, a former quarterback in the CFL and a coaching assistant with the Broncos in 2025, brings a fresh perspective and a strong developmental background to the position. The internal promotions suggest a high level of confidence in the existing offensive structure as the team prepares for 2026.
Veteran offensive tackle Garett Bolles, speaking from the Pro Bowl, voiced his support for the moves. "Davis is a leader. The guys respect him, and he knows how to communicate the game plan. I'm excited to see what he does calling plays," Bolles said.
Practice Squad Contracts Expire, Free Agency Pool Grows
In a parallel move, the Broncos allowed the contracts of ten players on their reserve/future contracts list to expire, making them unrestricted free agents. This is a standard procedural step at the start of the new league year and clears roster spots for future signings. The list includes a mix of veterans and younger players seeking opportunities:
- Wide Receivers: Michael Bandy, Elijah Moore
- Tight End: Marcedes Lewis
- Offensive Linemen: Alex Leatherwood, Ben Braden
- Defensive Linemen: McTelvin Agim, Jonathan Harris
- Linebacker: Justin Strnad
- Cornerback: Faion Hicks
- Safety: Delarrin Turner-Yell
The most notable name is veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis, a respected locker room presence. The decision not to renew his contract indicates the team may be looking to get younger at the position or is confident in their current group, which includes starter Evan Engram—who is himself a key free agent the team hopes to re-sign.
Cap Space and Looking Ahead
These moves come as the Broncos operate with approximately $27 million in salary cap space for the 2026 season, a figure that was finally liberated following the conclusion of the dead-cap charges from the Russell Wilson contract. This financial flexibility will be critical as General Manager George Paton navigates the impending free agency period, where key contributors like linebacker Dre Greenlaw, Engram, and running back J.K. Dobbins are set to hit the market.
The promotions of Webb and Kilgore, coupled with the roster trimming, mark a deliberate and active start to the Broncos' critical offseason. The message from team headquarters is clear: after falling just short of the Super Bowl, every decision is focused on bridging that final gap. The foundation is being laid now, in the front office and on the depth chart, for a team that believes its championship window is firmly open.