Phoenix – The Broncos have offers out to two former players: defensive tackle Michael Myers and punter Todd Sauerbrun.
Yes, the same Sauerbrun who was released last October after he served a four-game NFL suspension for using a banned supplement. Still, it is unlikely Sauerbrun will return. The New England Patriots have the right to match any Sauerbrun contract offers. And because of his past suspension issues, the Broncos’ offer is incentive-based, so the Patriots will be able to easily match it.
If Sauerbrun were brought in, he would compete with incumbent Paul Ernster. Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said he likes Sauerbrun but also is a fan of Ernster’s. New special-teams coach Scott O’Brien coached Sauerbrun while with the Carolina Panthers.
Myers’ return may be more probable but it could take time. The Broncos aren’t promising him a starting job and he likely will look at other offers first.
Meanwhile, if and when middle linebacker Al Wilson is cut or traded, the Broncos may show interest in former Atlanta linebacker Ed Hartwell. He would have a chance to compete for a starting job if signed.
Wilson’s departure from the Broncos seems likely. He nearly was traded to the Giants for a third-round draft pick last Friday, but he failed a physical because of neck and back issues. However, an independent specialist has cleared Wilson.
Marshall update
Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall had a pretrial conference set for April 18 in Castle Rock after appearing in court Wednesday, two day after his arrest. Marshall’s bond was modified so he can go out of state for two instances for work and family reasons.
Marshall was arrested for domestic violence and false imprisonment after an argument Monday night with his girlfriend.
Marshall, a second-year player, is set to compete for a starting job in training camp.
Footnotes
Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey is one of five finalists for the Pro Football Writers of America’s Good Guy award. … Per new NFL media policy, all players will be required to speak to reporters at least once a week during the season or be subject to a fine. The Broncos’ offensive line has long had a tradition of not speaking to the media. … Shanahan said fullback Cecil Sapp, from Colorado State, will get a chance to play some tailback.
