Predominantly Orange
FanSided

Broncos Training Camp: Who Steps Up at Defensive End?

By Tylor Walden

Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end Vance Walker (96) at the line of scrimmage in the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end Vance Walker (96) at the line of scrimmage in the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The latest injury to Vance Walker brings an interesting situation. With the defensive end missing the entire season due to a torn ACL, which player will step up for the Denver Broncos at the position?

The first major injury for the Denver Broncos was dealt on Monday morning during the 19th day of training camp for the defense. During a drill, defensive end Vance Walker appeared to have his leg rolled up on while defending a run play.

Later on, he had his right knee immobilized by a large brace and left the facility on crutches. Then the nightmare possibility came true.

Vance Walker. Out for the season with a torn right ACL in his knee.

https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/765330759754326016

This could not have been a worst time for the eight year veteran. Vance Walker was in prime position to take over the starting role for Malik Jackson, who departed the team to sign a big time contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

So, who steps up in his place? Free agent pickup Jared Crick appears to be the first in line to do so. He had a solid showing in last Thursday’s preseason game against the Chicago Bears.

More from Predominantly Orange

We could also see a bit of the Denver Broncos’ second round draft pick Adam Gotsis, who is near completion of his recovery from an ACL injury he suffered last October.

If anything, this gives newly signed defensive end Billy Winn a chance to make the final roster. Those three men have the better shot to start for the Denver Broncos defense. If I had to choose one, it most likely will be Jared Crick.

In the free agency pool, there is not a lot of choices to go with in that department. There is Antonio Smith, who was with the Denver Broncos last year and is still looking for work.

They could try to bring back Kenny Anunike, but with his injury history, I do not think that they bring him back unless they know he has fully recovered.

There are countless possibilities. However, nothing can replace the hard work that Vance Walker has put in to this season. He was one of the biggest stories in camp and was doing well.

The bad part about it is that he is a free agent at the end of the year. So, that really hurts his chances. Be interesting if the Broncos bring him back.

Wishing you the best in your recovery Vance Walker.

Home/Broncos News