Broncos HC Sean Payton denies reports about 'potential teardown'

Despite a dreadful 1-4 start, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton denied the team is considering a fire sale.

"We're not looking to do business with any of our players," Payton said in a Tuesday news conference. "You pick the phone up, but that's kind of where it's at. We've got a good handle on our current roster and our vision for the roster a year from now."

Yet the Broncos locker room feels differently.

"A potential teardown is coming. That's just the way some of these players feel," NFL Network's James Palmer said Monday on an episode of "The Insiders." "There are thoughts in the locker room to where changes in terms of this roster could start before the trade deadline." 

The Broncos have already made one move as they recently dealt defensive end Randy Gregory to the San Francisco 49ers for a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. 

The team probably isn't going to improve this season, as it ranks 17th in the NFL in yards (1,641) and last in points allowed (181). So acquiring more draft picks is the right move. 

After trading multiple picks for Payton and QB Russell Wilson, the franchise hasn't had a first-rounder over the past two seasons. To re-stock the roster, it must trade its most attractive players and acquire more capital before the deadline on Oct. 31.  

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported several teams have called about wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. A trade involving either could yield a decent package because they could help a team looking to bolster its receiving corps. 

Although Payton refutes trade reports, he might be trying to avoid creating more tension within the locker room. Either way, don't be surprised if the Broncos make significant changes soon.