Defensive tackle Kyle Peko became the first Broncos player to opt out of this season due to concerns about COVID-19, a source confirmed Tuesday morning.
Peko, 27, was signed off Indianapolis’ practice squad last December and appeared in two games. He was previously with the Broncos for parts of 2016-17. A long-shot to make the Week 1 roster, Peko’s decision means the Broncos are currently at 81 players and need to make one more roster move on Tuesday.
The NFL and NFLPA last week established an opt-out system.
Players deemed to be high risk for COVID-19 are eligible for a $350,000 stipend and their contracts would roll over into 2021, but they still would earn an accrued season.