Broncos cut Chad Kelly after criminal trespassing charge
The Denver Broncos waived backup quarterback Chad Kelly, the nephew of Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, following his Tuesday morning arrest that resulted in a first-degree criminal trespassing charge.
"This was a decision that we made as an organization," general manager John Elway said. "After reviewing all the information and in talking with (head coach) Vance (Joseph) and (president) Joe (Ellis), we agreed that releasing Chad was the right thing to do.
"Even though Chad's no longer part of our team, we've offered to help him however we can and are supportive of him in every possible way."
Kelly was arrested after police responded to a call about a man who'd stumbled onto their property dressed in a cowboy costume. Kelly apparently went inside the residence as police were responding, sat down on a couch, and began mumbling incoherently.
The incident took place following a Halloween party thrown by Broncos star Von Miller. The party took place in a secure environment with Ubers and shuttles available for rides home, according to details provided by Broncos teammate Brandon Marshall to Mike Klis of 9News.
As @RapSheet reported, #broncos have released QB Chad Kelly following Tuesday’s arrest for trespassing. Per sources, Prior to the arrest Kelly was involved in physical altercations with a guest at Von Miller’s party & with hired security while being escorted out of the party
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) October 24, 2018
Kelly was the last player picked in the 2017 NFL Draft, earning the moniker "Mr. Irrelevant." He slid down the draft board in part because of a torn ACL that ended his college career prematurely, along with character concerns.
The 24-year-old Kelly surpassed former first-round pick Paxton Lynch on the Broncos' depth chart during the preseason, becoming the primary backup to Case Keenum.