Broncos suffer what could be a significant loss early in preseason opener

The Denver Broncos are hosting the Dallas Cowboys in the team’s preseason opener and the game could not have gotten off to a much worse start. 

On just the second play of the game, linebacker Jonas Griffith went down during the play and stayed down while trainers rushed onto the field. He was able to walk off under his own power but he was clearly favoring his arm and it has been reported that he has an elbow injury.

While nearly all of the team’s starters and key players were sitting this game out, Griffith was on the field. The injury comes at a position that is probably the one that lacks the most depth, inside linebacker.

The Broncos just are not good at this spot and that has been discussed in great length here. The injury came after Baron Browning made a terrific stop in the backfield on Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle, but Griffith’s injury brought a hush over the stadium.

If this proves to be a significant injury, the Broncos have absolutely no choice but to add more depth at this spot and probably in a big way. Trading for Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith will reach a fevered pitch but bringing Alexander Johnson back would also make sense.

Jonas Griffith exits Broncos’ preseason opener with elbow injury

Truthfully, these might be moves that the team should make anyway.

Griffith has looked excellent for the Broncos in camp this summer and there is a growing belief out there that he will have a breakout season for the team. It would be a huge blow if he is lost in preseason game, but that is the risk teams take in playing their players, much like the New York Jets found out on Friday night when starting quarterback Zack Wilson went down.

We will update the situation with Griffith as soon as more information is available.