Chad

Upshaw

Gene’s son became expendable when Gary Barnidge was drafted.

He’d reportedly been battling pancreatic cancer. Upshaw was a Hall of Fame offensive guard for the Raiders, making seven Pro Bowls between 1967 and 1981, before taking over as Director of the Players Association. Upshaw was the only player to start for championship teams in the AFL and NFL.

Carter, turning heads since spring OTAs, stands at No. 6 in the wide receiver pecking order. Injuries to D.J. Hackett and Ryne Robinson could give him the opening he needs to make the team. He’s expected to start opposite Mushin Muhammad Thursday against Philadelphia.

Gene’s nephew was just released a couple of weeks ago. The team released defensive tackle Michael Marquardt to make room on the roster.

Parker failed to impress as a returner in his one game trial. It’s probably time for Travis Taylor to call it a career at this point.

Hamilton was roster-filler in Denver, and was expendable after the signing of Samie Parker. Upshaw, the nephew of NFLPA union head Gene Upshaw, was released to make room for the expected signing of Darrell Jackson.

Upshaw, who was among Carolina’s final cuts last summer, hitched on with Denver during the futures signings period. He’s likely just depth for camp.