Report: Broncos Safety Eric Hagg Retires From Football

Dec 23 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Cleveland Browns free safety Eric Hagg (27) and defensive tackle Phillip Taylor (98) attempt to tackle Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno (27) at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

After being signed to a futures contract by the Denver Broncos early in 2014, former Nebraska safety Eric Hagg has reportedly informed the team he intends to retire.

This news, first reported by Mike Klis of the Denver Post, comes as a huge shock as Hagg was entering just his third NFL camp since being picked by the Browns in the seventh round back in 2011. Broncos director or pro personnel Tom Heckert was the Cleveland Browns’ general manager and drafted Hagg, and likely had a little something to do with his being brought into Denver.

Hagg was a long-shot to make the Broncos’ roster but has played some significant ball in the NFL and has even started games. He would have had to make a mark on special teams, and the reasons of his retiring are unknown at this point.

With Hagg off the roster, the Broncos have 88 players under contract and two open spots entering camp. With little cap flexibility, it’s possible the Broncos won’t add anyone else to the roster but they have the ability to bring in a couple more camp bodies if they so choose.

Areas where they would likely have interest in bringing in players include running back and cornerback.

Hagg is only 24 years old, so hopefully he pursues a bright future outside of football.