Broncos Cut P Sauerbrun, Sign Ernster

Bill Williamson of the Denver Post reports that the Denver Broncos have released punter Todd Sauerbrun today. The club has yet to make any formal announcement, and is expected to do so this afternoon.

The move likely comes in light of Sauerbrun’s recent off-field antics, where he allegedly assaulted a cab driver on Dec. 7, and was placed in a detox center. He faces those charges in Denver County Court on Dec. 21.

Sauerbrun is the AFC’s second-leading punter in gross yards with 46.8 yards per punt. His net yard average of 36.1, however, is good for a measly 10th in the AFC.

The Broncos have cut Sauerbrun before – 4 weeks into the 2006 season after Sauerbrun’s 4-game suspension was completed for taking the league-banned substance ephedra. The punter also has a DWI history after pleading guilty to charged in December 2004, and would likely face consequences from the league’s conduct policy this offseason.

Paul Ernster, the Broncos’ punter through the 2006 season, has been re-signed by the club to fulfill the punting duties.

Like many fans, I grew tired of Sauerbrun’s antics throughout the year. Basically “calling out” Devin Hester doesn’t exactly put a smile on my face, either. Personally, I’m glad to see him go. Let’s hope Ernster is ready to play some football these next few weeks, or we may have to address punter in some way in the offseason.

On another note, Sauerbrun told reporters that he believed owner Pat Bowlen was involved in the decision. Could this be a sign that Mike Shanahan may be losing some of his personnel responsibilities, like many fans and local writers have been calling for?