Broncos sign veteran DL Vonnie Holliday on the day they release 12 players

Broncos agree to deal with DL Vonnie Holliday

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos signed veteran defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday Saturday, the same day the team trimmmed its roster by releasing 12 players.

The 6-foot-5, 285-pound Holliday had 3½ sacks last season for the Miami Dolphins.

Defensive lineman Tim Crowder was among the players cut Saturday by new Broncos coach Josh McDaniels. Crowder was taken by Denver in the second round in 2007.

The Broncos also let go tailback Darius Walker, who led the team in rushing during the preseason, and waived/injured cornerback Joshua Bell.

After the preseason finale Thursday night against Arizona, Walker was hoping he had done enough to secure a spot. But in a crowded backfield that includes top pick Knowshon Moreno, Walker was the odd tailback out.

“I definitely went out there and tried to showcase what I can do,” Walker said after his performance against Arizona.

So did defensive lineman Jarvis Moss — and it just might have saved his job.

Moss, a first-round pick in 2007, was on the bubble after an eventful camp in which he left during the first week to ponder retirement only to return three days later.

He had a solid game in a win over the Cardinals, getting a sack and forcing a fumble.

“It felt great,” Moss said. “I’ve been itching to get plays this season and they finally gave it to me. I took advantage of the opportunity.”

Moss thinks that defensive coordinator Mike Nolan’s 3-4 system is the perfect fit for him.

It might be for Holliday as well. The 12-year defensive lineman could be counted on to clog up the middle. He had 55 career sacks with Green Bay, Kansas City and Miami.

Other players cut Saturday included safety Vernon Fox, defensive lineman Nic Clemons and rookies Marquez Branson, Tony Carter, Braxton Kelley, Everette Pedescleaux and D.J. Johnson.

Offensive guard Mitch Erickson, receiver Matt Willis and defensive back Antwain Spann were let go as well.