The Denver Broncos have announced that they have released Willis McGahee after two seasons with the team.

The 32-year-old running back returned to practice with the Broncos this week, having decided to skip the voluntary organised team activities earlier in the off-season.

Executive vice-president of football operation John Elway said in a statement: "It's never easy to part ways with a veteran player who made so many positive contributions to our team and community.

"I appreciate all of the competitiveness, toughness and leadership Willis brought to the Broncos. He was an integral part of our team's turnaround during the past two seasons, and I wish him the best as he continues his NFL career."

McGahee missed the end of the 2012 season after tearing a knee ligament and sustaining a leg fracture.