If Peyton Manning goes down in his Denver debut, Caleb Hanie won’t be there to replace him.
The Broncos released Hanie, their backup quarterback, today. That leaves rookie Brock Osweiler as Manning’s only backup.
The Broncos apparently decided that they need depth on the defensive line more than they need depth at quarterback, because they signed defensive tackle Sealver Siliga from the practice squad with the roster spot made available by cutting Hanie. The Broncos have long liked the potential of Siliga, who was also on the Broncos’ practice squad last season.
Because he is not on the Week One roster, Hanie’s base salary of $1 million will not be guaranteed. That may have contributed to the Broncos’ decision to release him, and he may be back with the Broncos next week.