InfinitePulse

In the first action in the postmortem of the Broncos' two-game losing streak, they released kick and punt returner Domenik Hixon.

Tuesday's move is another statement the team will not tolerate continued lackluster play from the special-teams unit. Along with red-zone offense and run defense, special teams have been the Broncos' biggest issue in the first quarter of the season. Many of the Broncos' problems on special teams have been on kick coverage, but the return game has not been strong, either. Coach Mike Shanahan and cornerback Champ Bailey were critical of the special teams, especially the coverage units, in recent days.

The Broncos could give running back Andre Hall, who was returning kicks with Hixon at Indianapolis, an expanded chance against visiting San Diego on Sunday. Wide receivers Brian Clark and Glenn Martinez also could get a chance. Clark, who was cut Saturday when the team promoted Martinez, was re-signed Tuesday. Cornerback Jeff Shoate is also a possibility as a kick returner.

The Denver Post - Hixon's release signals shakeup

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