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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Mike Shanahan begged for time before responding about the arrest of former Denver Broncos running back Travis Henry on drug charges.

Following Friday’s practice, the Broncos coach issued his response.

“Obviously, when a guy gets an opportunity, you’re hoping that he is going to take advantage of it from a football side,” said Shanahan. “And when he didn’t do the things that he was supposed to do during the offseason program, obviously, we released him.

“But for him to experience what he’s experienced right now, I wouldn’t wish that on anybody and it’s really a shame.”

Henry, released by the Broncos on June 2, was arrested Tuesday after an alleged cocaine deal, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said.

Henry and James Mack are in federal custody on suspicion of knowingly and intentionally conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. A preliminary hearing and detention hearing were scheduled for Monday.

Henry had signed a five-year, $22.5 million contract with the Broncos before the 2007 season, but was dogged during training camp by a sprained left knee. He was released when Shanahan said his commitment was lacking.

Also there were revelations he had fathered nine children by nine women, a fact that came out in a child support case in Georgia.

“Obviously, he made some mistakes when he was younger. A lot of guys get a second chance and deserve to get a second chance,” Shanahan said. “Obviously, he didn’t take advantage of it.”

© 2008, The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.