After failing to find a trade partner, the Denver Broncos are releasing veteran outside linebacker Randy Gregory, according to multiple reports.
The release was a mutual decision, Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com first reported Wednesday. After being benched in favor of Nik Bonitto against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, Gregory asked for his release on Tuesday, according to KUSA-TV’s Mike Klis.
Buy Broncos TicketsThe Broncos tried to trade Gregory before ultimately granting his request to be cut, according to The Denver Post‘s Parker Gabriel. The 30-year-old veteran will now become a free agent.
Denver meanwhile, will move forward with Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper, who combined to total 3.5 sacks, four quarterback hits, a strip-sack and a fumble returned for a touchdown against the Bears in Week 4.
The Broncos are also expected to have Baron Browning return to practice this week after he spent the first four weeks of the season on the reserve/physically unable to perform list. Frank Clark seems to be on track to return to practice this week as well.
Gregory ended up being a big free agent bust for Denver — he signed a five-year, $70 million contract in 2022 — but the Broncos shouldn’t struggle to replace him this season. Gregory totaled three sacks in 10 games with Denver dating back to last season.
