49ers cuts include QB McCown

After that much-publicized search for a third quarterback, Josh McCown was among 26 players released by the San Francisco 49ers Saturday to get their roster to the 53-player limit for the regular season.

With McCown's departure, San Francisco is down to starter Alex Smith and rookie second-round pick Colin Kaepernick as the backup.

The 32-year-old McCown, who spent last season with the United Football League's Hartford Colonials, has passed for 6,584 career yards and 35 touchdowns with Arizona, Detroit, Oakland and Carolina.

Broncos waive CB Cox

The Denver Broncos waived Perrish Cox, cutting ties with the cornerback who is facing a sexual assault trial later this year.

General manager Brian Xanders indicated it was Cox's on-field performance and not his legal issues that led to his departure.

"Everybody coming out of that lockout, it's their job to create their role," Xanders said. "No roster spot is safe. His was based on the four preseason games, the five weeks of training camp."

Cox started nine times as a rookie last year.

'Boys cut Gronkowski

Demoted defensive lineman Igor Olshansky, last year's starting fullback Chris Gronkowski and veteran kickers Shayne Graham and Dave Rayner were among the players the Dallas Cowboys released to get their roster down to 53.

Harris done with Colts

Three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Tommie Harris was one of 27 players cut by the Indianapolis Colts. Harris, a former first-round draft pick, was released by Chicago in February and signed with the Colts during the first week of training camp.

-- AP