[Quesadilla Joe]

Broncos extend Kyle Orton's contract through 2011

Well, now Brady Quinn is really screwed.

The Broncos announced a one-year contract extension for quarterback Kyle "Pro Bowl" Orton on Thursday night, which should keep him in Denver through 2011.

The move comes as a surprise, although we'll have to see the fine print before saying more about what it means for the short-term future of Tim Tebow. Orton taken charge of the team's offense has, by all accounts with a huge training camp effort.

"[Kyle's] leadership and knowledge of the offense have enabled him to have a solid offseason and training camp, and we are collectively looking forward to the 2010 season," coach Josh McDaniels said in a statement.

The move allows Tebow to mature at his own pace, while providing stability to the franchise should Orton play well this season. Orton is active in the player's union and understands this move was rare.

"I really enjoy playing for the Denver Broncos as well as being part of this organization and this community," Orton said. "Considering the labor environment, I'm aware of how difficult it was to get this deal done and am extremely appreciative of all of the hard work and support from Brian Xanders and Coach McDaniels during this process."

We think it's a smart move for both sides. Orton is positioned for a strong year, and would only get more expensive if he got closer to free agency. This buys McDaniels time to groom Tebow, but not too much time. If Aaron Rodgers and Kevin Kolb can wait, why can't Tebow?

Orton, for his part, knows how hard it is to get into the right situation. He's not going to find a better gig than playing under McDaniels.

UPDATE: Orton got $9 million in 2011 on the extension, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN and NFL Network's Jason La Canfora. They both report Orton will make just more than $12 million over two years.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com...-through-2011/

Smart move by McDaniels. I have a feeling that resigning Kyle Orton after this season would have been very expensive.