Broncos Lose Kevin Vickerson for the Regular Season

Nov 10, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson (99) after a stop on third down during the first half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Per reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Broncos will be without defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson for a “minimum” of six weeks after an injury sustained against the New England Patriots.

Vickerson hasn’t graded out well according to Pro Football Focus (61st out of 70 defensive tackles), but he’s been a big part of one of the league’s best run defenses.

Luckily for the Broncos, they’ve been stacked up front all year, and have great depth at defensive tackle. First round pick Sylvester Williams, breakout player Malik Jackson, and top reserve Mitch Unrein will fill in for the ailing Vickerson, who could either be placed on IR or join the Broncos in the playoffs.

It’s likely the Broncos will keep Vickerson on the active roster unless they know he’s not going to be the same player the rest of this season, in which case they’ll put him on IR and try to get someone in the locker room who can contribute on gamedays or in practice.

The Broncos do not have any defensive tackles on the practice squad, so anyone who gets brought in will be from the outside.

Vickerson has been a great addition for the Broncos over the last few years since joining the team with the Josh McDaniels regime. He paired with Terrance Knighton to form one of the league’s more formidable run stuffing duos inside, and he will most certainly be missed.

Next man up once again for the Broncos.