ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Denver Broncos and General Manager Brian Xanders have parted ways, it was announced on Monday.

"Brian deserves a tremendous amount of credit and recognition for the contributions he made to the Broncos during his four years with the organization," Executive Vice President of Football Operations John Elway said in a statement. "His hard work and dedication played a major role in the recent success of our team, most notably last season's division title and playoff win.

"Brian and I had a very productive conversation earlier today. Although it was an extremely difficult decision, it became clear that it was best for both the Broncos and Brian to part ways. I believe a change to the structure of our football operations will be mutually beneficial, allowing the department to improve its efficiency while affording Brian the opportunity to continue his promising career with another NFL team."

Xanders entered his 19th NFL season and fourth as the general manager of the Broncos in 2012. Prior to his time with Denver, he spent 14 years with the Atlanta Falcons in a variety of coaching, player personnel and football operations positions. He was a member of Atlanta's defensive coaching staff during the club's run to its first-ever Super Bowl berth (XXXIII).

Elway said the decision was a tough one.

"My responsibility to the Broncos and our fans is to build a championship football team," Elway said. "The setup we have throughout every phase of our football operations will better position us for success going forward.

"Making a change with someone of Brian's caliber is not easy. I thank him for everything he did for the Broncos and wish him all the best as he continues his career."