According to 9NEWS Denver’s Mike Klis, run-stopping specialist Malcolm Roach suffered a Grade 2 calf strain during Thursday’s practice. No timetable has been announced, but it will likely sideline him for multiple weeks and could end up being a short-term injured reserve stint for him.
This is a tough blow to the Broncos’ defense, a few days before their season opener vs. the Titans. While Roach is not a starter,
he is a key rotational piece who specializes in stopping the run. He was a big boost to their run defense last season, but now, they will need to rely on their depth to start the season.
The Broncos did keep 7 defensive linemen on their 53-man roster, and they will need to tap into that depth here in week 1. Look for Eyioma Uwazurike and Jordan Jackson to see some more snaps along with rookie Sai’vion Jones. I would anticipate Uwazurike and Jackson to get the nods here to replace Roach due to their size and run-stopping ability. They also have nose tackle Jordan Miller on the practice squad, so we’ll see if they elevate him at all to help replace Roach.
Throughout the summer, the Broncos’ depth up and down the roster has been praised, and now, that depth will be tested, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw has not practiced the last two days, edge rusher Dondrea Tillman left yesterday’s practice with a hamstring issue, but is reportedly okay, and they will be down Roach for likely a few weeks at least.
If Greenlaw cannot play, look for Justin Strnad to get the start, with undrafted Karene Reid getting some snaps along with Levelle Bailey being elevated off the practice squad. Even if he does play, he will likely be on a pitch count. If Tillman misses any time, look for promising rookie Que Robinson to take over for him.
Next man up!
