The Kansas City Chiefs struck first and claimed former Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton off waivers Wednesday, an NFL source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
The Broncos released the former Chicago Bear quarterback after Orton's agent requested that he be released in hopes of re-joining his first NFL team. The Bears, who's waiver order was No. 30, were interested in Orton after Jay Cutler injured his right thumb versus San Diego, putting the rest of his season at risk.
The Chiefs, currently at 4-6, hope that Orton can step in and right the ship in hopes of keeping their playoff chances alive. Orton will have to learn Todd Haley's system quickly and prove that he can run the Kansas City offense more proficiently than newly installed quarterback Tyler Palko. Palko went 25-38 for 238 yards and three interceptions in a 34-3 blow out to New England on Monday Night Football.
The Chiefs will look to rebuild on Sunday as they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Steelers.
For more information and analysis on the Chiefs, check out SB Nation blog Arrowhead Pride.