Broncos Release Veteran Safety Renaldo Hill

Hill will always be remembered (and perhaps, never forgiven) for his pass interference play against the Jets in week six of last season that ultimately cost Denver the game. (AP Photo/Barry Gutierrez)

The Denver Broncos announced on Saturday evening that veteran safety Renaldo Hill has been released from the team.  The move surprises no one, as Mr. East predicted last Wednesday that Hill would be cut, freeing up $5.5 million in cap space for the team.

Hill is entering his 11th season after playing the previous two years in Denver.  At 32 years old, Hill is being pushed aside to make room for the younger safeties on the roster.  Starting in 31 games, Hill recorded 122 tackles, 2.0 sacks and 4 interceptions from 2009-2010.

Youngsters  Nick Polk, David Bruton and Darcel McBath are joined by rookies Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter as five of the six remaining safeties on Denver’s roster.  The sixth is veteran Brian Dawkins — who may also be cut if the team does not restructure his contract.

Dawkins is entering his 16th season in the NFL but may still be retained to coach his successors and provide the leadership he has displayed since joining the Broncos in 2009.  Second round draft pick Rahim Moore is expected to be a starter on week one, Dawkins may be the other.

The Broncos now have more cap room and a less crowded backend of the secondary.  Stay tuned for news on more cuts expected to come.