Broncos’ T Ryan Clady To Have Season-Ending Surgery

Ryan Clady (78) and offensive guard Zane Beadles (68) line up for a down during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Sports Authority Field. The Lions defeated the Broncos 45-10. (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

Denver Broncos starting tackle Ryan Clady is reportedly having season ending surgery on his left foot. This comes from Mike Klis of the Denver Post.

Clady injured his foot in the Broncos’ 41-23 week two win over the New York Giants and left MetLife Stadium in a walking boot. It appears that the injury is of the Lisfranc variety.

 Dr. David Geier, one of the country’s top orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine experts in the country gave us the lowdown on Lisfranc injuries earlier in the week.

"If there is any displacement [of bones] – even a mild amount – surgery is often needed to line up the bones and hold them in place with screws until the ligaments heal. It is thought that instability in this part of the midfoot, if left untreated, can lead to long-term degenerative changes, especially in running athletes."

Even if Clady’s injury is on the mild side, it’s better to get it taken care of now. He’s still got a long career ahead of him and leaving this untreated could present bigger problems down the road.

The All-Pro hasn’t missed a regular season game in his entire NFL career. He had off season shoulder surgery, but was ready to go by the middle of training camp.

Chris Clark is set to take Clady’s place on the line while veteran Winston Justice is set to fill the empty roster spot. Justice played for the Colts last season.

The good news is the Broncos don’t face a notable pass rusher this season other than DeMarcus Ware in Dallas and Tamba Hali twice this against the Chiefs. Come playoff time, however, the effects of Clady’s absence could be felt.

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