The Denver Broncos have moved to add depth to their defense by snapping up free agent linebacker Wesly Mallard and re-signing defensive end Kenny Peterson on Sunday.

Mallard spent the last two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, appearing in all 16 games last season while registering 12 special-teams tackles and one fumble recovery.

The 6ft 1in, 230-pounder is in his sixth NFL season, having previously logged time with the New England Patriots and New York Giants.

Peterson returns just a day after being released by the Broncos. The 6ft 3in, 285-pounder is in his fifth season in the league, having started his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers.