Bowlen said, "In evaluating the work of our football operations department over the past several weeks, it has become clear to me that Brian Xanders is the right person to step into our general manager's job. I am confident he will work in tandem with Head Coach Josh McDaniels to re-establish our football team at the level we desire."

Bowlen also announced that both Jim Goodman and Jeff Goodman have been dismissed from the organization. Jim Goodman had been vice president of football operations and Jeff Goodman had been assistant general manager, sharing that post with Xanders.

Xanders said, "This appointment comes with unfortunate circumstances as I have enjoyed working with Jim and Jeff over the last year. Nevertheless, I am humbled by this opportunity and accept it as a great challenge on behalf of our fans, our community, Mr. Bowlen and the organization. I am excited to work together with coach McDaniels and put our collective resources into winning football games."

McDaniels said, "I want to thank Jim and Jeff for their contributions to the Denver Broncos. I'm excited for Brian and look forward to working with him hand-in-hand well into the future."

--The Broncos released tight end Chad Mustard, who was always on call for the old coaching staff. Mustard was needed when tight end Nate Jackson was lost for the season with a hamstring injury. He is a solid blocker who knew the old playbook well.

--Receiver Cliff Russell was released by Denver. Russell had a good preseason but suffered a scary neck injury playing special teams, and that injury ended his season. Russell just turned 30.

--Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler made his first career Pro Bowl appearance. He had a chance to rally the AFC late in the game but threw four straight incompletions with his team trailing. Overall Cutler was 7-of-15 for 48 yards and an interception.

--WR Brandon Marshall caught five passes for 44 yards at his first Pro Bowl. He was a starter for the AFC opposite Andre Johnson after posting a second straight 100-catch season.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "I want this team to be tough, smart and prepared to play well under pressure." -- Broncos coach Josh McDaniels.