ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos got a head start Friday on cuts, releasing nine players, including quarterback Ingle Martin and former Nebraska receiver Nate Swift.

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

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 both are questionable for the opener at Cincinnati next week. Rookie Tom Brandstater could start.