Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday afternoon that the Denver Broncos waived quarterback Kyle Orton. A six year pro, Orton began the season as the Broncos starting quarterback, but was replaced by Tim Tebow after throwing for only 8 touchdowns and 7 interceptions through his first five games, sporting a 75.7 passer rating.
Orton, a 4th round draft pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, came to the Broncos in the 2009 trade that sent Jay Cutler to the Chicago Bears. Orton started 33 games for both the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos and may be considered one of the top free agent quarterbacks on the market now.
Several teams, the Bears included, may look to claim Orton -- who turned 30 earlier this week -- as quarterback injuries mount across the league.
Stay tuned to SB Nation Denver for more breaking news and analysis on all matters Colorado sports. For more on the NFL, check out SB Nation NFL.