Linebacker recently cut by Broncos opts to join Ravens

The Denver Broncos cut two players from the active roster on Tuesday: inside linebacker Kristian Welch and safety Tanner McCalister.

McCalister cleared waivers on Wednesday and he intends to re-sign on Denver’s practice squad, according to a report from the Denver Gazette‘s Chris Tomasson.

Welch is a vested veteran, so he was released instead of waived, making him a free agent who did not have to go through waivers. If the Broncos wanted to get him back on the practice squad as well, the team will be disappointed by today’s news.

Welch has opted to sign with the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. He previously played in Baltimore from 2020-2022.

Denver’s decision to cut Welch and McCalister from the 53-man roster likely signals that two players are about to return from injured reserve. Broncos right tackle Mike McGlinchey (MCL), outside linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and cornerback Damarri Mathis (ankle) are all eligible to return from IR this week.

Denver will likely make its decisions on IR activations and practice squad elevations tomorrow ahead of their Thursday Night Football showdown with the New Orleans Saints.