DeMarcus Ware likely out at least 3 weeks with broken bone in forearm
By Maher Ayoub
Denver Broncos star pass rusher DeMarcus Ware is likely to miss at least 3 weeks with a broken bone in his forearm.
After a terrific start to the season, it looks like the Denver Broncos have seen their first true loss. Future Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware could miss some time after a scary moment on Sunday afternoon. Early in the second half, Ware converged on Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck and collided with teammate Von Miller.
Ware left the game immediately and cradled his right arm on his way to the locker room. Post game tests revealed a fracture in his right hand and forearm that could keep him sidelined for up to three weeks. The injury isn’t the best news for the defending champions, but it remains to be seen what the timeline for return is for Ware. He missed all of training camp and the preseason battling with back issues.
#Broncos lose OLB DeMarcus Ware for 3 weeks (or more) with a broken bone in his forearm. More tests, but it may help to keep his legs fresh
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 19, 2016
If Ware elects to have surgery, he could be placed on injured reserve and return to the roster before the season is over. Otherwise, we could see Ware back on the field in the next few weeks donning a cast over his injured arm. Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis suffered a similar injury late into the season in 2015 and came back to play in the Super Bowl.
The injury now opens the door for Denver’s young linebackers to step up and fill the void. 2015 first-round draft pick Shane Ray has shown flashes of pass rushing ability, and scooped a fumble and scored to seal the Broncos 34-20 win against the Colts. Shaq Barrett and preseason standout Dekoda Watson look to see extended playing time as well.
Next: NFL Week 3 Power Rankings
The Broncos have road games in their next two weeks and will likely play without their defensive captain. With Von Miller’s running mate down, teams will look to neutralize Miller with double teams and extra help. Ware is now in sole possession of ninth place in NFL history with 136.5 career sacks after being credited with a half a sack on Sunday.