An NFL source said Sunday the Broncos have received permission from the Carolina Panthers to bring in embattled punter Todd Sauerbrun in the next week.
Part of a deal likely would include restructuring Sauerbrun’s contract, which has three years remaining. A restructured contract would help Denver for salary cap reasons and give Sauerbrun a big signing bonus.
Known for being brash and confident, Sauerbrun was arrested for an alleged DUI in 2004 and was implicated in a steroids investigation along with other Carolina players in a recent “60 Minutes II” report. The NFL and the Panthers are investigating the allegations.
The Gaston (N.C.) Gazette reported the potential trade Sunday, citing unnamed NFL sources.
Denver had been interested in Sauerbrun this offseason and was expected to try to sign him after June 1. If a trade isn’t made, Carolina is expected to release Sauerbrun next month. However, there has been significant interest. The Broncos likely will not give up more than a sixth- or seventh-round draft pick.
Denver selected punter and kickoff specialist Paul Ernster of Northern Arizona in the seventh round last week. The Broncos could be looking at Ernster as a practice-squad prospect or could keep him to kick off even if Sauerbrun is acquired. Sauerbrun didn’t kick off in 2004 but was effective at the duty before.
Sauerbrun, 32, is a three-time Pro Bowl punter. Last year, he was tied for third in the NFL with an average of 44.1 yards per punt. With his strong leg, Sauerbrun could be a dangerous weapon playing half his games at altitude, at Invesco Field at Mile High.
Denver struggled last year to get consistent punting out of , cut in December, and Jason Baker, who finished the season. Baker has been re-signed, but coach Mike Shanahan said during the NFL owners meetings in March that he wanted competition at punter.
If acquired, Sauerbrun clearly would be the answer for this season at least.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
