The Denver Broncos could be very thin on the defensive line for their matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2017 season opener…
The Denver Broncos could be without a starter and a key reserve on the defensive line come time for Monday night’s game against the Chargers, and they can ill-afford it.
Jared Crick and Zach Kerr were listed as ‘DNP’ in the practice report from Friday, and Crick was even downgraded in that regard from ‘limited’ the day before.
The Broncos have two additional defensive linemen on the injury report who were limited in practice as of Friday in Adam Gotsis (shoulder) and Kyle Peko (foot).
Derek Wolfe, who was supposed to be out the longest of any of the recently injured Broncos, was limited on Thursday but was a full participant in practice on Friday, and is ready to go for Monday night. But who will be playing with him?
Neither is expected to play Monday. Crick working back from back issue. And Kerr sprained his knee. Needs a few weeks https://t.co/cZRgjoC6Ry
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) September 9, 2017
This is a little concerning if you’re the Broncos, leading up into a game against a team that is going to push the pace and require the Broncos to rotate guys in and out on the defensive line.
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We could get an early look at preseason breakout player Shelby Harris, who was absolutely unstoppable throughout the team’s 4-0 run in exhibition games.
With Crick and Kerr likely not playing on Monday night and Kyle Peko along with Adam Gotsis not being 100 percent, will the Broncos make any sort of roster move on the defensive line? Veteran Ahtyba Rubin is available, but signing him prior to week one would guarantee his salary the whole year.
And who would he replace initially on the roster?
There are plenty of question marks surrounding the defensive front for the Broncos initially, and they may have to get creative right away. That creativity could include second round pick DeMarcus Walker moving back up to the defensive line for some snaps.