While some roster-building priorities from his Saints days remain, Payton's strategy has evolved with the Broncos, who are now ready for a big leap in 2025.

With the preseason finale in the books, the Denver Broncos have begun to trim their roster down to the final 53 players. The deadline to be at 53 players is on Tuesday, August 26, at 2 pm MDT.

1. CB Damarri Mathis: He's talented enough to serve as a No. 5 cornerback, but the Broncos are packed at cornerback and the team would save $3.4 million if Mathis is cut. Trading him for a late-round pick could be a best-case scenario.