Two of the articles I found really stood out to me for our daily link post that I wanted to take the time to add some flavor to.

Jake Butt sitting out the final preseason game

The first is the news that Jake Butt is missing the final preseason game. Why is this interesting at all? Because there’s a darn good chance that he’s not playing so the team can release him without risking another injury that forces them to keep him on the books.

While it is completely possible they really like what he brings to the table (as I did when we drafted him), it is far more likely that they are setting themselves up to walk away from a bad investment.

I don’t mean it was a bad draft pick because I don’t think it was. What I mean is that at this point after 3 ACL injuries, the writing has just got to be on the wall for the team (if not for the player). If they do let him go, I will do nothing but wish him the best no matter where he goes as the guy has done everything the right way from what I’ve seen and worked his tail off to try and contribute to the Broncos team.

A Former GM’s take on roster cuts to 53

Most of the milehighreport regulars know me and how much I love to arm-chair GM. It is a part of the game that I feel like I’ve gotten a handle on more than any other. What players really have potential? What players are starters or backups? What players fit our team’s schemes?

I found the read of Casserly’s article to be very interesting and informative at least to speak a little bit to one version of how things work behind closed doors this time of year. Give it a read and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you agree with his methods? How much different do you think the process looks for the Broncos?

Broncos News

TE Jake Butt to miss Broncos' final preseason game
Butt caught two passes in the Broncos' preseason game against the Rams on Saturday.

Less Awesome NFL Teams’ News

2019 NFL season: How teams reach their 53-man rosters - NFL.com
The deadline for NFL teams to make final roster cuts is 4 p.m. ET on Saturday. Former Redskins and Texans general manager Charley Casserly explains the process of how teams reach their 53-man rosters.

2019 NFL season award predictions: Mahomes-Wentz MVP race? - NFL.com
Who's the MVP favorite? Can anyone stop Aaron Donald's reign as Defensive Player of the Year? Is Kyler Murray poised to run away with Offensive Rookie of the Year honors? Our analysts provide their award predictions.

Niners release LB Malcolm Smith after two seasons - NFL.com
One of John Lynch's first signings as general manager of the San Francisco 49ers is no longer in their plans. San Francisco is releasing veteran linebacker Malcolm Smith after just two seasons.

Should NFL Players Actually Want an 18-Game Season? Surprisingly, Maybe. | Football Outsiders
Football Outsiders is the internet home for Innovative Statistics and Intelligent Analysis of the NFL and college football. Our writers, led by Aaron Schatz, also provide content to ESPN.com and write the annual book Football Outsiders Almanac.

2019 NFL season predictions, Super Bowl LIV champion | SI.com
A brand new NFL season is on the horizon, which means only one thing—predictions! Which teams will play into January, and who will square off in Miami? We make our best guess.