ATLANTA (SI.com) -- The Denver Broncos released veteran quarterback Brian Griese on Monday, a move that will save the team $6.3 million in salary cap space over the next two years.
Griese went to the Pro Bowl in 2000 after throwing 23 touchdown passes and just four interceptions, the second-best ratio in league history, but the Broncos soured on him after two mediocre seasons.
Griese was 27-24 as a starter, and the Broncos reached the playoffs just once in his four years as a starter.
Griese had 15 touchdowns and 15 interceptions last season, and it became apparent he was on his way out when head coach Mike Shanahan benched him in favor of Steve Beuerlein for the final game.
The Broncos then signed Jake Plummer to a seven-year, $40 million contract in March, and told Griese and Cindrich they were free to negotiate with other teams for a trade. No deal was reached because the league ruled the Broncos didn't have enough room under the salary cap.
By releasing Griese after June 1, the Broncos will save $4.9 million on the salary cap next season and $1.4 million the following year.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/news/2003/06/02/broncos_griese_ap/
