John Lynch, who's entering his 16th NFL season, received permission from Coach Mike Shanahan to explore other opportunities. Lynch's decision caught his teammates by surprise. Champ Bailey knew the nine-time Pro Bowler was discontent with his playing time but not to this degree. "I didn't see that coming," Bailey said. "But I understand how competitive he is and how much pride he has about what he does on the field. It sucks that he can't play every down, but that's what he wants to do. He wasn't happy with his role. I'm behind his decision all the way. I would love him to stay, but every guy has to look out for himself." Lynch was told he'd get an opportunity to compete for a starting safety job when he took a pay cut this offseason.

Broncos' safety John Lynch met with Coach Mike Shanahan on Wednesday and told Denver?s KCNC-TV that Shanahan gave him permission to explore other opportunities, according to an Associated Press report.

The Denver Broncos on Friday signed first-round draft pick Ryan Clady, who is projected to start at left tackle. The deal is believed to be worth $20 million over six years and was completed in time for the Boise State star to join the team's first workout.

Rod Smith stepped into a room full of family, friends and Bronco teammates Thursday and announced his NFL career was done, as reported by the Associated Press.

Broncos' wide receiver Rod Smith is planning to hold a news conference Thursday amid published reports he will retire. Smith?s agen Jack Mills, confirmed the event but declined to give details, according to an Associated Press report on Wednesday.

The Broncos shook up their backfield again on Monday, waiving running back Mike Bell, who spent the previous two seasons with the team, according to a Yahoo.com report.

Running back Travis Henry tested positive for marijuana again prior to being released by the Broncos in early June, according to The Denver Post. A source close to Henry confirmed the league said he tested positive for marijuana in May. "We didn't know about it so that had nothing to do with (releasing Henry)," said a Broncos official. "He missed treatments and some workouts and just didn't get with the program. It finally got to the point where (Mike Shanahan) said good riddance." If Henry is found guilty of testing positive, it would be his third offense, which in turn would result in a one-year suspension.