This has to qualify as a somewhat surprising move. Fresh off his four-game suspension for violating NFL’s substance abuse policy, Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater is reportedly being released by the team.
Broncos releasing K Matt Prater, who's coming off 4-game suspension, per source. Brandon McManus wins Denver kicking job.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 3, 2014
Prater has been with the team for eight seasons and led the NFL in both field goal percentage as well as extra-points made last year.
It’s a surprising move for a team that has relied a great deal on Prater’s leg over the course of the past few seasons. Second-year player Brandon McManus will replace Prater on a full-time basis for the Broncos moving forward this year.
Photo: USA Today