When it was announced a couple of weeks ago that the Denver Broncos wouldn't be picking up linebacker Brandon Marshall's option for the 2019 season, it looked like his time in Denver had come to an end. Not so fast. That might not be the case after all, Marshall told TMZ Sports.

Marshall won't be back at the $9 million cap hit he was scheduled to have, but he said he's willing to come back on a different deal.

“I wouldn't rule out a return yet,” Marshall said, “Still a chance I could return to the team. It could definitely happen.”

“If things work its way out, I'm definitely open to a return … they have to be open as well, we'll see,” the Nevada product declared.

If Broncos general manager John Elway does decide to bring him back, he'll be taking a significant pay-cut.

Marshall signed a five-year, $34.6 million contract back in 2016, but his play declined sharply the past couple of seasons. He received an average 64.2 grade from Pro Football Focus, and was no longer worth his hefty salary. He had clearly lost a step or two last season, and he also struggled with injuries, ultimately missing five games.

In the 11 games he played in, Marshall racked up 42 tackles and one pass breakup. The year before, he had 106 tackles, three sacks, four pass breakups, and a fumble returned for a touchdown.

If Marshall doesn't end up working out a deal with the Broncos, he should have no problem finding a new home when he hits the open market. He isn't the player he was a couple of years ago, but he can still be a serviceable veteran for a team looking for inside linebacking help.