Kyle Orton Snagged By Kansas City Chiefs Off Waiver Wire

The Kansas City Chiefs have claimed former Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton off waivers, according to ESPN, which cited an anonymous person familiar with the situation.

Orton, who was released by the Broncos on Tuesday (Nov. 22), six weeks after being replaced by Tim Tebow after the team’s fifth game of the season, was scheduled to practice with the Chiefs earlier today if he could make it to Kansas City on time and pass his physical.

Though several teams, including the Chicago Bears – Kyle’s first team – and the Dallas Cowboys, were reportedly interested in Orton, the Chiefs held the 9-spot in waiver priority and were able to land him before anyone else. By taking Orton, Kansas City will be responsible for approximately $2.5 million remaining on his nearly $8.9 million salary this season, but according to the Kansas City Star, the team had plenty of space under the salary cap to make the move.

Meanwhile the Bears, who recently lost starter Jay Cutler to a broken thumb, signed free agent QB Josh McCown to a one-year contract, according to ESPN.

Orton, who will most likely miss this Sunday’s game against the Steelers, is scheduled to face-off against the Broncos and QB Tim Tebow on New Year’s Day. Following the season, Kyle can become a free agent again.

via Sports Illustrated