The Denver Broncos had two players competing at punter this summer: Sam Martin (a veteran, expensive option) and Corliss Waitman (a younger, cheaper option).
The Broncos ultimately chose the left-footed Waitman over the right-footed Martin. When the team cut Martin on Tuesday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the move was made after Martin indicated he would not take a pay cut.
During his post-cuts press conference on Tuesday, general manager George Paton said the decision was not money-motivated.
“It had nothing to do with it,” Paton said. “We picked the best punter for us, Corliss. The punter with the most upside, biggest leg, and money had nothing to do with it.”
Paton said he wished Martin nothing but the best, but Waitman’s powerful left foot was a better option. Paton was impressed with Waitman’s hangtime and direction punting this summer, and his left-footed kicks could give some returners trouble given that most teams have right-footed punters.
Whether the decision was money-motivated or not, the Broncos did save $2.25 million in salary cap space when they cut Martin.
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