FOUR BITS: Caldwell, Mincey, Spikes, Roper

1 » Former Florida Gators wide receiver Andre Caldwell re-signed with the Denver Broncos on Tuesday, inking a two-year deal worth a maximum of $3.45 million to remain with the team. Caldwell was signed by Denver in 2012 when the Broncos signed quarterback Peyton manning and was not given the opportunity accomplish much his first season. Last year, Caldwell only caught five passes through the first 14 weeks before exploding on Dec. 2, 2013 with six receptions for 59 yards and his team’s only two touchdowns in a 27-20 loss to San Diego. He caught 12 passes over the final five games and was held without a reception in Super Bowl XLVIII. With Denver not expected to re-sign WR Eric Decker, Caldwell could have a greater opportunity to contribute in 2014.

2 » Defensive end Jeremy Mincey, who started the 2013 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars before being cut and signed by the Broncos, agreed to a two-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday. In doing so, he becomes the first former Florida player to suit up for Dallas since running back Emmitt Smith in 2002 as it has been 11 years since the Cowboys have either drafted or signed a UF player. Mincey will earn $4.5 million over two years with $2 million guaranteed.

3 » Linebacker Brandon Spikes is the premier former Gators player currently looking for employment after completing all four years of his rookie contract with the New England Patriots. Despite his impressive run-stopping, Spikes was not re-signed by New England for a number of reasons among which is a perception that refused to conform to the “Patriot Way.” Suffice to say, the split was eagerly anticipated by both sides. “It’s been real, it’s been fun. But it hasn’t been real fun lol. Thank u to the cities of New England & @Patriots for an amazing run. #PoWwW” he tweeted on Tuesday. Some rumors have the Buffalo Bills potentially interested in Spikes, though those have not been substantiated at this time. “Any team that is willing to take a chance on me is going to get a playmaker, a guy that is very aggressive on the field looking to be a difference-maker. A captain, a leader on the defense — a guy who is ready to lead the charge,” he told NFL Network on Tuesday.

Spikes is not the only former Florida player currently looking for work. Other Gators that were on NFL rosters at some point last year but are currently considered free agents include safety Major Wright (a reunion with the Chicago Bears is not believed to be likely), wide receiver Louis Murphy, safety Ahmad Black and quarterbacks Rex Grossman and Tim Tebow.

4 » New Florida offensive coordinator Kurt Roper has begun coaching now that preparations for spring practice have begun. The Gators on Wednesday released this video of Roper speaking with his players.