Spencer retires as player, is still coach

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Aug 30, 2004 | by FRANK SCHWAB THE GAZETTE

ENGLEWOOD - Cornerback Jimmy Spencer was a player/coach for the Denver Broncos last season. He lost one of those titles Saturday after a meeting with coach Mike Shanahan.

"I'm just a coach now," Spencer said.

Spencer said his playing career is over after 177 games. Last year he became the first player/coach in the NFL since Dan Reeves did it with the Dallas Cowboys in 1970-71.

Spencer is at peace with the decision to retire.

"Man, I'm an eighth-round draft pick who played for 13 years," Spencer said. "I've been more than blessed."

Spencer will stay on the Broncos staff as an assistant defensive backs coach. Spencer started 81 games in his career and had 26 interceptions.

"He's been a really good football player," defensive coordinator Larry Coyer said. "The thing about Jimmy Spencer is he's a class act. He's done a great job coaching. He's done a great job with our guys. I feel blessed we have him."

Cuts coming

Quarterback Mike Quinn and tight end O.J. Santiago appear likely to be released Tuesday. The Broncos won't release anyone until then, but a number of players were absent from practice Sunday.

Quinn, Santiago, defensive tackle Brandon Kennedy, running back Santonio Beard, linebacker Riall Johnson, safety Ron Israel, offensive linemen Jamain Stephens and Tyler Lenda and wide receiver Atnaf Harris were not at practice, and are likely to be cut. Defensive lineman Luis Almanzar and cornerback Scott Turner also weren't at practice, but they have been out with injuries. Each player is a candidate to either be released or placed on injured reserve.

Wide receiver B.J. Johnson (left ankle) and cornerback Jermaine Chatman (left hand) were placed on injured reserve.

The Broncos need to cut 15 players to get to 75 on the roster by 2 p.m. Tuesday. Denver, which has 10 roster exemptions for players who were in NFL Europe last spring, will have to cut from 75 players to 53 by 2 p.m. Sept. 5.