ENGLEWOOD — The Denver Broncos have released talented but troubled linebacker D.J. Williams, who was suspended for nine games last season and lost his starting job to Wesley Woodyard.

The Broncos also released third quarterback Caleb Hanie, who didn’t take a single snap in his one season in Denver last year behind Peyton Manning and his backup, rookie Brock Osweiler.

Williams was a first-round draft pick in 2004 out of the University of Miami. He played all of the linebacker positions for the Broncos and was the team’s leading tackler during most of his nine seasons in Denver.

Williams collected 886 tackles, 20½ sacks, two interceptions, 41 pass breakups, 14 forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries but also made headlines off the field.