Denver Broncos Shopping TE Tony Scheffler

Hidden beneath the slew of Jay Cutler stories has now emerged some new breaking news: Fan favorite tight end Tony Scheffler is reportedly being shopped by the Broncos.

The Denver Broncos are paying a lot of money to Daniel Graham, and recently re-signed Jeb Putzier to a new contract, so apparently Scheffler has become expendable. 

Another hint as to why this could potentially be made is that Scheffler has one year remaining on his rookie contract, and will likely leave Denver at the end of the season anyway to pursue the starting job elsewhere.

This report broke in a "The Way We Hear it..." segment on Pro Football Weekly's website.

Scheffler is one of the better young tight ends in the game today. Since joining the Broncos in 2006, he has displayed his rare athletic ability and size to the tune of 107 catches, 1,480 yards, and 12 touchdowns in the last three seasons.

Compensation for the young playmaker is unknown, but allow me to speculate. 

Teams that could/should be interested in acquiring Scheffler include Buffalo, Cincinnati, Cleveland, New York (Giants), Detroit, and Atlanta.

A former second round draft pick out of Western Michigan, it is difficult to gauge what Scheffler would be worth at this point, with one year left on his deal, combined with his injury history.

At the very best, he is worth a second round pick, and is a role player on defense.

It has been previously speculated that the Broncos, possibly in search of Brandon Marshall's replacement if a suspension is given, could deal Scheffler and a draft pick for Braylon Edwards in Cleveland, who will undoubtedly be in the market for a receiver this offseason.

Talks should heat up as the owners' meetings continue this weekend.