Broncos release nine players

ENGLEWOOD (AP) - The Denver Broncos got a head start on cuts, releasing nine players, including quarterback Ingle Martin.

The team also placed guard Matt McChesney on the reserve/injured list with a sprained ankle on Friday.

There are no surprises in the other players released: DLs Matthias Askew and Carlton Powell; OL Kory Lichtensteiger and Clint Oldenberg; CB Rashod Moulton; RB Marcus Thomas; WR Nate Swift and LB Lee Robinson.

Martin is a free agent who signed after No. 2 quarterback Chris Simms sprained an ankle two weeks ago. Starter Kyle Orton has an injured finger, and if neither can play in the opener at Cincinnati next week. Rookie Tom Brandstater is expected to start.

The Broncos must get down to 53 players Saturday.