Broncos Release D-Linemen Bannan, Williams

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) -- The Denver Broncos continued revamping their roster Thursday by releasing veteran defensive linemen Justin Bannan and Jamal Williams.

Both were big additions to Josh McDaniels' 3-4 defense last summer. The Broncos are going back to a 4-3 scheme under new coach John Fox, and the Broncos saved $1.5 million in bonus payments by cutting them loose.

Williams, who turns 35 this year, was due $1 million next week and $4.2 million next season. Bannan was due $500,000 next week and $3.5 million next season.

The moves came a day after the Broncos cut nine-year veteran tight end Daniel Graham, who was due a $1 million roster bonus Thursday. Graham and Bannan both starred at the nearby University of Colorado.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)