What It Means:

The move will preferably come by trade but it looks like the team is prepared to release Ward if they can't find a team willing to acquire him. At 30, Ward is due $4.5 million in non-guaranteed money and missed most of training camp with a hamstring injury. In his absence, Justin Simmons emerged as Ward's successor so the Broncos would be okay with letting him walk and gaining the salary relief.

If Ward is cut, he should be picked up rather quickly. Named a Pro Bowler from 2013 to 2015, the 7-year veteran is projected for 93.1 tackles, 3.8 pass defenses and 3.0 interceptions in the upcoming season.