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Broncos Release QB Kyle Orton

DENVER (CBS4) - The Denver Broncos have released quarterback Kyle Orton, leaving Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn as the only quarterbacks on the team.

Executive Vice President John Elway confirmed Orton's release on Tuesday afternoon.

Orton, 29, will need to clear waivers in order for another team to claim him. If another team picks him up it will have to take on his remaining salary, which is about $3 million.

Orton has not played since Oct. 9 when he lost the starting job to Tebow during the game against the San Diego Chargers.

The Broncos have gone 4-1 since Tebow took over as starting quarterback.

Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton jogs onto the field on Oct. 17 in the middle of the Broncos terrible 4-12 season (credit: CBS)

The Chicago Bears, Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs all have lost their starting quarterbacks to injury and might be interested in Orton.

The Broncos have yet to announce a corresponding roster move.

Orton was acquired by the Broncos in 2009 in a trade involving Jay Cutler. He won his first six starts as a Bronco but has only won six times since.

CBS4's Vic Lombardi interviewed Brady Quinn about Orton's release. Listen to the interview in the clip below:

The Denver Broncos released the following statements about Orton's release:

"I spoke with Kyle earlier today and thanked him for everything he did for the Broncos. He was a true professional throughout this season. I've got a great deal of respect for him as both a player and as a person.

"This was the right decision for our football team. We feel good about our quarterback group, and this gives Kyle an opportunity to help another team and showcase his talents.

"I wish Kyle and his family all the best going forward."

-- Head Coach John Fox

"I would like to thank Kyle for all his work with the Denver Broncos. In the three years that he's been here, he's been an absolute pro. We thought it was best for the Broncos at this time as well as for Kyle to catch on with a different team.

"Kyle is going to have more options in the NFL. He'll get an opportunity to play somewhere else, and we wish him the best of luck."

-- Executive Vice President Of Football Operations John Elway

PHOTO GALLERY: Broncos QBs Since Elway

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