According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Denver Broncos have officially cut ties with former Chicago Bears quarterback Kyle Orton:
@AdamSchefter: Filed to ESPN: Denver Broncos waived quarterback Kyle Orton today.
The Broncos had initially installed Orton as the starting quarterback for the 2011 season, but benched him in favor of Tim Tebow in Week 5. Orton had effectively slipped to third on the Broncos depth chart behind Brady Quinn, thus making his $2.5M salary rather exorbitant for a player holding a clipboard.
The Chicago Bears, dealing with the Jay Culter injury, are looking for a veteran backup quarterback for fourth-year pro Caleb Hanie, and if they are willing pay Orton's salary, he could be a potential fit for the organization.
Jay Cutler broke his thumb in last week's game against the San Diego Chargers, though apparently played through the injury. It appears he will miss potentially the rest of the season after he completes the surgery and rehab needed to repair the injured digit.
Fore more coverage on the Chicago Bears, head to Windy City Gridiron. Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more breaking news and up-to-the minute coverage on the Jay Culter injury.