Broncos Dumervil Potentially Out for Season
The Denver Broncos just can’t seem to catch a break in training camp. Just days after the team’s top two running backs went down with injuries, the Broncos suffered a bigger loss that is going to last for a longer amount of time.
Just two weeks after signing a contract extension with the Broncos, outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil suffered a torn pectoral muscle. Sources say that Dumervil may be out for four months and possibly the season.
Dumervil is going for a second opinion to get a specific time as to when he can return. He could potentially return by December but his missing a good part of the season is perhaps the worst loss the Broncos could have suffered.
Dumervil tore the muscle when he extended his arm against an offensive line-man during a pass drill. He left the field with pain in his chest and the news was not good.
Dumervil led the NFL in sacks last year with 17. That was also a Broncos team record. He signed a five-year deal a couple of weeks ago worth nearly $60 million with $43 million guaranteed. He was patient in receiving his long-term deal as he signed his restricted free agent tender in June, refraining from holding out like some other players in the league. He was rewarded for his patience and the fact that he’s perhaps the Broncos best defensive player.
The linebacker is expected to have surgery on his pectoral muscle after receiving a second opinion. The Broncos may still carry Dumervil on their roster for a while as there is a slight chance he’ll be able to play this season. The team could shut him down and put him on injury reserve, which would end his season. The Broncos will likely only do that if they are out of play-off contention by December.
In Dumervil’s absence, the Broncos will hope that former first-round draft picks Jarvis Moss and Robert Ayers can step into Dumervil’s spot, although it is nearly impossible to replace a player like Dumervil.
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