The NFL’s deadline for opting out of the 2020 season has passed and the Denver Broncos have two names on the 66-player list.
Defensive lineman Kyle Peko and right tackle Ja’Wuan James have decided not to play during the COVID-19 pandemic. Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller seriously considered opting out but has committed to play instead.
“The opt-out option is a player’s choice and a player’s right, and we’ll respect that if a player decides to do that,” Broncos president/CEO Joe Ellis said on July 28. “That’s absolutely, 100 percent their right, inherently. I’ve got no objection to that at all and would be supportive of that, if that’s what somebody wants to do.”
Peko was a longshot to make Denver’s 53-man roster. James was expected to start at right tackle. For now, Elijah Wilkinson is projected to start in James’ place. The Broncos might consider signing a free agent tackle or trading for an experienced option to replace James.
Denver currently has one player on the Reserve/COVID-19 list: tight end/fullback Andrew Beck. Beck has not opted out of the season — he will be eligible to return to the active roster once healthy.
USA TODAY has a complete list of all of the NFL opt outs on this page.
