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Kubiak Settles On Emmanuel Sanders For Punt Returns

DENVER (CBS4/AP) - Now that Emmanuel Sanders has returned from a pulled hamstring that sidelined him for most of training camp, the Pro Bowl receiver is eager to return punts.

"Why not? It's an opportunity to get the ball in my hands. It's an opportunity to make more plays," said Sanders, who hasn't returned punts since his senior year at SMU in 2009.

Head coach Gary Kubiak says the decision to give Sanders the job is pretty simple:

"I think you look at touches, that's the most important thing and when you've got a dynamic player like that, if there's any other way to get him a touch on the field (you do) ... he's not a guy that doesn't need a lot of work doing it. He's just very natural in doing it."

Sure, it's risky, Sanders said, but "I think every play that you're out there, obviously, you're putting yourself at risk."

"Punt returns are dangerous, but at the same time you've got to be very cautious, don't make stupid mistakes and try to catch everything," Sanders said. "You've got guys running down trying to take your head off. You've got to play it smart, and that's what I'm going to do.

(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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